Columbia Holidays

Sonora and Columbia are in the heart of the Gold County. As such there is a rich background and colourful history to explored. From the Gold Rush to the development of some of California’s most visited resorts, there is something to learn and explore in each of these enchanting destinations.

Located on sheer ravines some 100 miles east of San Francisco lies Sonora. This is a picture perfect retreat which is home to some spectacular houses and buildings. Along the main Washington Street, visitors can see for themselves the several Victorian houses which grace the street. Walking the back streets and surrounding neighbourhoods is perhaps the best way to get to grips with Sonora. There are some very beautiful parts of the town which lie deep in the centre and can only be reached by foot.
There are numerous accommodation choices, varying from quaint Victorian Inns to larger hotels. All of which cater for most budgets and have reasonable facilities.
A visit to the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau will provide you with all the information you need about your Sonora stay. From the best places to eat and drink to the best value for money when it comes to resting your weary head in the evening, the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau has it all.

Three miles north on Parrots Ferry Road lies Columbia. The town of Columbia was almost voted the State Capital back in 1854, but falling short of just two votes, that claim was passed to Sacramento. Although it is probably just as well, as by 1870, all the gold from the famous Gold Rush has run out and the town was eventually abandoned. Leaving in its wake a veritable ghost town in the form of a reconstructed Gold Rush era township. Main Street is the hub of Columbia and is the place to be for the action, of which there isn’t much.
A visit to Columbia does not take too much time, with limited entertainment and accommodation, although fascinating to see, there is not enough here to warrant a lengthy visit. By all means take a day or even afternoon to explore the sleepy streets and historical area, but be warned that there isn’t much else to this faded town.

Another great day trip choice is the Railroad 1897 State Historic Park. This can be found in Jamestown, just a few short miles on route to Sonora, and is home to an extraordinary collection of old steam trains. One of which is the steam strain used in the film High noon.
A visit to Jamestown is short yet bitter sweet as the small hushed town is hauntingly sluggish.

Mariposa is the gateway to the likes of Yosemite Valley and other larger Gold Rush towns and makes for a great day trip. If you are staying in one of the larger resorts, then an excursion to Mariposa is well worth it. Although the town is very small and has just one museum, the California State Mining & Mineral Museum, there is still enough charm to draw the crowds.