100 Things To Do In Mariposa County | Outside Yosemite

From scenic backroads and historic Gold Rush towns to lake adventures, local flavors, and quiet moments in nature, Mariposa County is home to Yosemite National Park and offers far more than just the iconic valley itself. This curated list of 100 things to do is organized by region and activity to help you easily discover experiences that match your interests, whether you’re traveling with family, chasing outdoor adventure, or looking to slow down and savor the Sierra foothills. Use it as inspiration to explore the many memorable ways to play, relax, and connect throughout Mariposa County and Yosemite.

Check out our events calendar to see if any exciting happenings coincide with your visit. Join a guided nature walk with the Sierra Foothill Conservancy, or catch one of the area’s annual events, including the Mariposa Butterfly Festival, Coulterville Coyote Fest, the Yosemite Goddess Festival, and a variety of festive holiday events throughout the year.

👪 kid-friendly ❄️ winter 🌸 spring ☀️summer 🍂fall

Central Mariposa CountY

Mariposa, El Portal, Midpines, & Bootjack

Adventure & Outdoor

Relax at Mariposa Town Park 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
In the heart of Mariposa, this community park offers shaded picnic areas, a playground, open lawn space, and an amphitheater, perfect for a laid-back afternoon outdoors.

Play Tennis in the Park 🌸☀️🍂
Enjoy a casual match at the tennis courts located within Mariposa County Park in the heart of town. Free and open to the public, these courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to bring your own racquet and balls for a fun and easy way to stay active outdoors.

Take a Dip at the Community Pool 👪☀️
Cool off at the Mariposa Town Park swimming pool, a refreshing spot for families and visitors during warmer months.

Drop Into the Mariposa Skatepark 👪🌸☀️🍂
Bring your board and roll into the Mariposa Skatepark, a laid-back local spot perfect for skaters of all levels. With smooth concrete features, open flow, and Sierra foothill views, it is a great place to practice new tricks or simply soak up the small-town vibe. Whether you are traveling with teens or just want to burn off some energy, this community skatepark adds a fun, active stop to your Mariposa itinerary.

Merced River Recreation Area 👪🌸☀️🍂
Hike, raft, float, swim, camp, or just relax in the Merced River at the Merced River Recreation Area, one of the best outdoor things to do near Yosemite and the trails and beaches here are all dog friendly.

Wildflower Hikes (Hite Cove & Stockton Creek Preserve) 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Walk through fields of sunlit orange, plush purple, and fiery red blooms along Hite Cove Trail, one of the region’s best wildflower walks. Starting near the Savages Trading Post marker on Highway 140 just past Ferguson Bridge, the trail follows the steep Merced River canyon and passes nearly 50 varieties of wildflowers. Dog-friendly, too! For a quieter, local option, explore Stockton Creek Preserve Trails, where rolling foothills and creekside paths bloom with seasonal color and offer a serene complement to Hite Cove’s vibrant display.

Spot the Endemic Limestone Salamander Along the Merced River 👪🌸
Spring is one of the best times to search for the rare and fascinating Limestone Salamander, a species found only in a small part of California’s Sierra foothills. Along damp stretches of the Merced River Trail and canyon walls near Highway 140, these elusive amphibians emerge during cool, humid conditions. Unlike many animals, Limestone Salamanders breathe directly through their skin and must stay in moist environments to survive, making rainy spring days the perfect time for careful wildlife spotting. If you are lucky enough to see one, admire it from a distance and stick to photos only.

Kemble Road Hike 👪🌸☀️🍂
An easy, scenic outing just 15 miles north of Mariposa, offering views of the Chowchilla River and a close-up look at the historic William Sell Bridge. This short (3 miles round trip) hike is perfect for stretching your legs, soaking in foothill scenery, and discovering a lesser-known slice of Mariposa County history. Enjoy this hike.

Ride the Rapids | Merced River Adventures 👪🌸☀️
In spring, snowmelt turns the Merced River into thrilling whitewater as it drops through canyons near El Portal. By summer, guided trips become gentle scenic floats. Kayak or raft with Zephyr Whitewater or Oars River Rafting in Midpines.

Merced River Fishing (El Portal to South Fork & Beyond) ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Anglers can fish the Merced River canyon outside Yosemite National Park along Highway 140 from near El Portal downstream, where the river offers deep pools, riffles, and scenic trout fishing year‑round.

Tie One On: Fly Fishing the Merced River ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Create your own story on the Merced River with a guided fly fishing trip or explore on your own. Learn from local guides who know the best trout spots, or cast into scenic pools from the riverbanks between El Portal and the South Fork for a relaxing, iconic Mariposa County fishing experience.

Forage for Wild Mushrooms in the Sierra Foothills
After seasonal rains, the forests and foothills of Mariposa County become a treasure hunt for wild mushrooms. Local foragers search for unique varieties like elephant ears and chicken of the woods among oak woodlands and forested slopes, with areas near Jerseydale Campground offering good habitat after wet weather. If you are new to mushroom foraging, always go with an experienced guide or use a trusted field guide, and never eat anything unless you are absolutely certain it is safe and properly identified. Prefer to skip the hunt? Pick up locally grown mushrooms from Country Nerd Farm instead.

Electric Bike Adventures & Climbing 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Tour the scenic backroads of Yosemite Mariposa County on an electric bike with a local guide from Yosemite E-Biking. For climbing enthusiasts, they also offer guided rock climbing experiences suitable for all skill levels, a great way to explore the area’s outdoors at your own pace.

Hike at Stockton Creek Preserve 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Hike at the edge of Mariposa as you explore native wildlife and plants along the Stockton Creek Preserve. There are trail options ranging from easy to heart-thumping and the whole preserve is pet friendly. Be on the lookout for some special bronze turtle sculptures along the trail!

Spend a Day at Happy Goat Yosemite 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Slow down and connect with the land and farm animals at Happy Goat Yosemite. Wander the property on a self-guided tour, meet playful baby goats and other friendly animals, and view the greenhouses. Guests can also relax at The Field House with games, arts and crafts, live music, and curated picnic lunches featuring local flavors. It is a peaceful and family-friendly experience that offers a different side of Yosemite Mariposa County.

Flight Tours of Yosemite Mariposa County 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take an aerial tour high above Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park with Airborrn Aviation Services, based at the Mariposa-Yosemite Airport.

Skydive Yosemite 🌸☀️🍂
The only skydiving center with amazing views of Yosemite National Park, Skydive Yosemite is located at the Mariposa-Yosemite Airport. Learn more about the founder of Skydive Yosemite in our video below.

Foodie

Local Farmers Market 👪🌸☀️🍂
Every Wednesday May to October, the Mariposa Farmers’ Market freshens things up with local food, organic produce and crafts on display.

Go for a Pint ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Grab a pint and enjoy the local flavors of Mariposa at three standout spots. 1850 Restaurant and Brewery brews its own craft beers and keeps up to 14 taps flowing daily. The Alley is a cozy tap house serving a variety of craft beers in a relaxed, friendly setting. For a lively atmosphere, The Grove House often features live music and showcases beers from across California, making it a perfect spot to soak in the local vibe.

Leave Your Mark at Hideout Saloon ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Join a quirky Mariposa tradition at Hideout Saloon, where visitors from around the world grab a drink, a bite, and leave their mark by taping an inscribed dollar (or other currency) to the walls. This longtime local favorite is beloved for its welcoming, down‑to‑earth vibe, classic pub fare, and ice‑cold beers.

Sample Olive Oils ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Do you love the taste of flavorful olive oil on toast? Be sure to stop at Costalivos Mountain Gold Olive Oils for a wide range of delicious olive oils. Sample a few options and take some of your favorite flavors home with you.

Taste and Tour at Sierra Cider Farm and Cidery 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Sierra Cider Farm and Cidery crafts ciders from estate-grown heritage apples, including the crisp, bubbly Early Harvest and rich Farmhouse Style. Visitors can enjoy tastings, stroll the orchard, meet friendly farm animals, and check their Instagram for seasonal pop-up events and special offerings.

Take the Triangle Tasting Tour ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take to the scenic backroads of the Mariposa Triangle for a laid-back self-guided beverage tour where great flavors meet big views. This roughly 30-mile loop along Highway 140, Triangle Road, and Highway 49 connects charming downtown Mariposa with local stops for wine, cider, coffee, and more, perfect for savoring farm-to-table bites and sipping your way through the Sierra foothills.

Find a Hidden Coffee Gem Along Highway 49 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Tucked along scenic Highway 49 in the Sierra foothills, Mariposa Coffee is a hidden gem worth the detour. This family-run roastery has been crafting small-batch coffee since 1991 using their original hand-built “Frankenroaster.” Stop in for fresh-roasted beans, mountain hospitality, and a taste of the road less traveled.

History & Culture (Art & Music)

Stomp and Holler | Square Dancing ❄️🌸☀️🍂
For more than 75 years Bootjack Stompers in Mariposa has offered square and line dancing classes to locals and visitors alike. Classes offered range from beginners to plus-level square or line dancers.

Art Galleries & Wine in Downtown Mariposa ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Discover the vibrant art scene in downtown Mariposa, where local and regional artists showcase their work across unique galleries. Explore Sierra Artists‑Mariposa Gallery, cooperative displaying paintings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and more by local creators. Stop by Dry Creek Gallery for western‑themed art and paint‑and‑sip sessions where you can create your own handmade souvenir. Complete the experience at Casto Oaks, sampling locally crafted wines while enjoying the work of talented area artists.

Explore Artisan Shops & Local Handmade Goods ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Celebrate the creativity of Mariposa’s local makers with a visit to Made in Mariposa, a nonprofit artisan co‑op featuring handmade pottery, jewelry, textiles, woodwork, and home goods. Just a short walk away at The Approach Trading Post, find Mostly Sweet handmade jewelry, surprisingly among outdoor gear, along with other nature‑inspired art. A short drive from town, get comfy with Nativearth, a local artisan shoe company that focuses on current styles as well as historical footwear. Your feet will appreciate your good taste.

Catch a Show | Live Music in Mariposa 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
The music scene in Mariposais on the rise. Venues like The Grove House, The Alley and the Hideout Saloon have their own line up of events. If you time your visit right, you might catch Music on the Green, a relaxed free outdoor concert at the Mariposa Art Park every Friday and Saturday evening during the summer, hosted by the Mariposa County Arts Council.

Get Creative with a Local Art Class 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Slow down and tap into Mariposa County’s creative side with a hands-on art class. Try stained glass at Hillside Glass Co, or explore affordable workshops through Made in Mariposa. From painting and ceramics to crafts and community workshops, it is a fun way to connect with local culture and creativity.

History & Culture (Historical Sites & Museums)

Locked Underground | Escape Room Experience 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Test your wits to see if your group can figure out how to get out of an “abandoned mine” escape room alive. A great activity for groups located right in the Visitor’s Center in downtown Mariposa.

Read Plaques in Old Town Mariposa 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take a walk through old town Mariposa and keep an eye out for the plaques on each building which describe what the original buildings’ inhabitants were in 1850 when the town was founded.

Self-Guided Gold Rush History Hunt ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Dig into Mariposa County’s Gold Rush past with historical markers showing the way for a scenic and informative road trip through the county. Use the Mariposa County Historical Sites Interactive Map Tour.

Locate Historic Buildings in Mariposa ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Grab a downtown Mariposa map at the Mariposa Visitors Center and take a self-guided tour of the town’s historic treasures. See landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the old Mariposa Jail House, the historic Mariposa County Courthouse, and the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, along with charming 1800s-era buildings now home to shops, cafés, and local eateries.

Savage’s Trading Post Roadside History Marker ❄️🌸☀️🍂
The Savage’s Trading Post roadside history marker tells the story of James D. Savage, a complicated character with an uncanny knack for being present at pivotal moments in California history. We won’t play spoiler, only to say that this is a marker well worth a look.

Snap a Pic with Historic Steam Engine & Caboose 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
In El Portal, just off Highway 140 in the Central Mariposa County region, you can see how early visitors traveled to Yosemite National Park. Look for the historic steam engine and caboose located next to the Yosemite Conservancy office. It is a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into the park’s transportation history.

Visit the Yosemite Climbing Museum 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Discover the legacy of big wall pioneers and bold ascents at the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum and Gallery in Mariposa. Dedicated to preserving the history of climbing in Yosemite National Park, this thoughtfully curated space showcases vintage gear, historic photographs, and stories from the athletes who helped shape the sport.

Step Back in Time at the Mariposa Museum & History Center 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
The “Best Little Museum of Its Size West of the Mississippi” according to the Smithsonian Institution, the Mariposa Museum & History Center has Gold Rush documents and displays, artwork, photos, and Native American crafts.

Explore the California State Mining & Mineral Museum 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
The California State Mining & Mineral Museum offers a golden glimpse into the state’s mineral bounty and mining history. On display: the Fricot “Nugget,” at 13.8 pounds, the largest remaining intact mass of crystalline gold from the 19th century.

Gold Panning Tour | Prospect Yosemite 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Try your hand at panning for real gold just outside Yosemite National Park. Perfect for singles, couples, families, or groups, all tools and equipment are provided. Dress for the weather, wear shoes that can get wet, and get ready for a hands-on adventure in the Sierra foothills.

Leisure & Relaxation

Capture the Sunrise ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Start your day early and set out to capture the sierra landscape in its most magical light, sunrise. The rolling Sierra Foothills along Highway 140 and 49 are dotted with peaceful roadside pullouts, offering panoramic views of oak-covered hills, ridgelines, and valleys. Popular spots include the Highway 49 Turnouts: Several pull-outs between Mariposa and Coulterville provide expansive eastern views, allowing for a clear, elevated view of the sun breaking over the mountains. Bagby Bridge: The area near the bridge where Highway 49 crosses the Merced River offers a lower, scenic view of the river reflecting the morning colors.

Cool Your Heels by the Merced River 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Relax on the banks of the Wild and Scenic Merced River. Set up a chair, dip your feet, and enjoy the soothing sound of rushing water. This big river offers plenty of space to unwind, but remember to use caution in spring when flows are at their highest.

Find a Good Read & Hammock Time ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Set up a hammock and kick back with a book complemented by the sounds of nature. If you’re looking for a good read, stop by the Mariposa County Library where you can borrow or buy a book. The John Muir shelf is highly recommended. Recommended locations to set up a hammock; Merced River Canyon, Sierra National Forest or Stockton Creek Preserve Trails.

Go Bird Watching ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Grab your binoculars and explore a mighty range of Sierra topography and biodiversity. Alpine peaks transition to rolling foothills that flatten to grassy plains enabling nearly 300 species of birds to thrive here. The diversity of habitat attracts a teeming range of feathered mountaineers.
Where to go bird watching: Merced River Canyon, Sierra National Forest or Stockton Creek Preserve Trails.

Stroll Along The Mariposa Creek Parkway 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Stretch your legs along the Mariposa Creek Parkway, a scenic corridor that follows the Mariposa Creek through the heart of town. Beginning near Creekside Nursery and leading to the Mariposa Art Park, the pathway showcases a successful native habitat restoration effort made possible through strong community partnerships that support ecological resilience, wildfire preparedness, and cultural renewal.

Enjoy a Picnic 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
You’ll find idyllic locations for a picnic lunch around every corner in Yosemite Mariposa County. Pack a picnic basket (or cooler) with delicious and healthy supplies from Pioneer Market, The Californian Commissary or High Country Health Foods & Cafe and find your own little corner of heaven.
Suggested picnic locations: Merced River Canyon, Sierra National Forest or Stockton Creek Preserve Trails.

Star Gazing in the Merced River Canyon 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Any cloudless night is the right night for stargazing in Mariposa County. Clear and dark, the mountain air is a reliable lens through which to relax and explore the universe. A variety of apps can help you identify constellations, and be sure to pay attention to celestial events like the Perseid Meteor Showers.

Scenic Drive: Spring Wildflower Bloom 🌸
Soak in Mariposa County’s spring wildflower scenery, when rolling hills and river canyons burst into color. While blooms can be found throughout the county, the Merced River Canyon is a standout, where California poppies paint the slopes in vivid shades of orange. Another favorite is the Golden Highway (Highway 49 between Coulterville and Mariposa). For an especially memorable moment, time your drive through Bagby for sunset, when golden light washes over oak-dotted hills and winding roads, creating an unforgettable Sierra foothills experience.

Required Reconnect at Ignite Space Mariposa ❄️🌸☀️🍂
If duty calls or you need a reliable Wi-Fi connection to catch up with loved ones, join a Zoom meeting, or handle work while on the road, Ignite Space Mariposa offers a quiet and professional place to do it. Available by the hour, day, or longer, the space provides a clean and comfortable environment so you can stay connected while keeping the vacation mindset intact.

Wellness

Relax with a Massage or Spa Treatment ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Unwind and rejuvenate with a visit to Mariposa’s top massage and wellness spots. Wellness Nook offers therapeutic massages, facials, and more. Find personalized bodywork at Olga’s Massage Therapy or ReNew Massage & Bodywork, where skilled therapists help melt away tension. For a holistic experience, Blue Oak Ayurveda, Inc. provides restorative massages and Ayurvedic therapies designed to balance body and mind. Just a short drive away, Yosemite Health Spa at Yosemite Bug offers full-service massage, hot tubs, sauna, and holistic treatments for a complete relaxation experience.

Forest Bathing at Stockton Creek Preserve (Mariposa) 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Explore the shaded trails of Stockton Creek Preserve, where you can walk slowly among oaks and pines, inhale the fresh forest air, and observe the interplay of light and shadow through the leaves. This mindful immersion invites you to reconnect with the rhythms of nature and enjoy the restorative power of being fully present among the trees.

Get Moving at Mountain Fitness ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Recharge your body with a day pass at Mountain Fitness, a small downtown Mariposa gym with great vibes. Whether you want to lift, stretch, or get your heart pumping on cardio equipment, this friendly space makes it easy to stay active while visiting town.

Find Your Flow: Yoga & Pilates in Mariposa ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Reconnect with body and breath at Mariposa’s welcoming movement spaces. Stretch and strengthen at Mountain Yoga Studio, explore yoga and holistic wellness at Crescent Moon Studio, or try POP Pilates and yoga-inspired classes at Mariposa Fitness Studio. Pure Training Studio also offers fitness and mindful movement sessions to complement your practice.

Southern Yosemite/Mariposa

Fish Camp

Adventure & Outdoor

Snow-Play Area 👪❄️
Goat Meadow Snow Play Area is a classic under-the-radar sledding hill, located just off Highway 41 in the Sierra National Forest between Fish Camp and Yosemite National Park. Tubing, sledding, and all-around snow play abound.

Skate the Sierra 👪❄️
Glide across the ice at the open-air ice skating rink at Tenaya at Yosemite and learn to skate or perfect that triple-axel. Roasting marshmallows and making s’mores happens at the nearby fire pit.

Outdoors Adventureland 👪🌸☀️🍂
Tenaya at Yosemite offers over-the-top activities including archery lessons, rock wall climbing, guided nature walks and more.

Explore the Tenaya Loop Trail 👪🌸☀️🍂
Explore the scenic Tenaya Loop, a 1.3-mile, family- and dog-friendly trail right behind Tenaya Lodge. With just 246 feet of elevation gain, this easy loop winds through seasonal wildflowers and follows the gentle babble of Big Creek. Benches along the way invite you to pause and enjoy the scenery. Perfect for all ages and abilities, the trail offers nearby parking for families and pups alike. After your stroll, refuel at Jackalopes Bar & Grill with tasty pub fare just steps from the trailhead.

Horseback Riding 👪🌸☀️🍂
Enjoy a classic Sierra experience with Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures in Fish Camp, just outside Yosemite National Park. Guided rides explore the surrounding forest with scenic views, fresh mountain air, and a taste of the Old West, with options ranging from short introductory outings to longer trail adventures.

Bicycle in the Sierra National Forest 👪🌸☀️🍂
Bike the scenic trails of the Sierra National Forest, where family-friendly fire roads and exciting single-track routes wind through towering pines and open to sweeping Sierra views.
Enjoy an easy ride along Tenmile Grade, a mellow forest road popular with mountain bikers, or challenge yourself on more technical terrain. For panoramic vistas, pedal toward Signal Peak Lookout Tower, and if you’re staying at Tenaya at Yosemite, take advantage of on-site bicycle and e-bike rentals to gear up and explore.

Visit Devil’s Peak Lookout and Signal Peak Tower 👪🌸☀️🍂
For a devilishly delightful view, head to Signal Peak Tower at Devil’s Peak in the Sierra National Forest. Near Fish Camp in southern Mariposa County, this scenic summit can be reached on foot, by bike, or via an easy off-road ADV or ATV ride. The journey is part of the reward, with a long, satisfying mountain bike route or relaxed four-wheel adventure leading to sweeping panoramic views at the top. Perfect for those craving big scenery with a little adventure along the way.

Fishing in the Sierra National Forest (Big Creek & Streams) 👪🌸☀️🍂
The Sierra National Forest includes a number of smaller fishable streams and creeks such as Big Creek near Fish Camp, great for dry and wet fly techniques and a more forested, back‑country setting outside the main Merced River corridor.

Foodie

Picnic in Sierra National Forest 👪🌸☀️🍂
Relax among the towering pines and gentle streams of Sierra National Forest. Grab sandwiches, charcuterie, or other treats from Parkside Deli located in Tenaya at Yosemite and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by fresh mountain air and scenic beauty

History & Culture

Climb Aboard a Historic Steam Train 👪🌸☀️🍂
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is an old-fashioned steam train ride just off Highway 41 near Fish Camp, traveling along the historic tracks of the Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company. Visitors can explore the on-site logging museum and try their hand at gold panning. Check the calendar for special events like live music; open April–October.

Try Your Luck at Gold Panning! 👪🌸☀️🍂
Get hands-on with a classic Sierra Nevada experience at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad! Take a gold panning lesson and learn the techniques miners used during the Gold Rush. The best part? You get to keep any gold you discover, making this a fun and memorable activity for the whole family.

Step into Sierra History at the Thornberry Museum 👪🌸☀️🍂
Discover the rich logging and railroad heritage of the Sierra Nevada at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Museum. Explore vintage artifacts, historic locomotives, and hands-on exhibits that tell the story of the region’s logging industry, the railroad that helped build it, and life in the mountains during the Gold Rush era. It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs and families alike, bringing the past to life right alongside the tracks.

Leisure & Relaxation

Tranquil Streams in Fish Camp 👪🌸☀️🍂
Escape to the smaller, quieter streams like Big Creek in Fish Camp. Wade gently, dip your toes, and let the peaceful sounds of flowing water wash away the day. Perfect for a serene afternoon away from the crowds. Access along the Tenaya Loop.

Stargazing Near Fish Camp & Sierra National Forest 👪🌸☀️🍂
Head into the high country around Fish Camp and Sierra National Forest for some of the Sierra’s best night sky views outside Yosemite’s park boundaries. With minimal nearby town lights and plenty of open forest roads and clearings, you’ll find wide, dark skies ideal for spotting constellations, the Milky Way, and shooting stars.

Wellnes

Relax & Recharge at Ascent Day Spa ❄️🌸☀️🍂
From forest trails to total relaxation, Ascent Day Spa offers the perfect end to your day. Treat yourself to a massage or sauna session and linger over tea in the tranquil lodge setting. Located in Tenaya at Yosemite.

Forest Bathing in Sierra National Forest ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Wander through fragrant groves and along quiet streams in Sierra National Forest near Fish Camp. Pause to touch the trees, listen to birdsong, and feel the soft forest floor beneath your feet. Forest bathing here encourages a deep connection with the natural world, helping you relax and recharge.

Northern Mariposa County

Coulterville, Buck Meadows

Adventure & Outdoor

Coulterville Town Park 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Located in historic downtown Coulterville, this community park is a great stop. With shaded picnic areas, a playground, tennis courts, and plenty of open green space, it’s a perfect place to relax, stretch your legs, or enjoy a snack from the nearby café after exploring the town.

Smith Peak Mountain Bike Trail 👪🌸☀️🍂
Propel yourself to a beautiful local summit on a fun 11.3-mile (18.2 km) mountain bike trail.

Take a Swim | Diana Falls and Diana Pools 🌸☀️🍂
Take a short, easy walk to the peaceful pool at Diana Falls/Diana Pools and enjoy a refreshing swim or simply take in the view. For tips and details on making the most of your visit. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Foodie

Step Into Old California at Coulter Cafe 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Tucked into historic Coulterville along Highway 120, Coulter Cafe captures the feeling of Old California in the rolling Sierra foothills. Surrounded by oak-studded hills and quiet backroads, this local favorite blends small-town charm, Gold Rush history, and a slower pace of life that feels far removed from the modern world. Part cafe, part general store, it is the kind of authentic roadside stop travelers rarely discover by accident.

Dine in the Mountains at Lucky Buck Cafe 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Further east along Highway 120 near Buck Meadows, Lucky Buck Cafe offers a completely different Sierra experience. Here, foothill landscapes give way to pine forests, cooler mountain air, and an alpine atmosphere on the road toward Yosemite. With outdoor seating, forest views, and a laid-back rustic vibe, it is a peaceful stop surrounded by nature where travelers can truly feel the transition into the High Sierra.

History & Culture

Visit the Museum in Coulterville 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Step back in time at the Northern Mariposa County History Center in Coulterville, located in a town that’s a registered historic district. Explore exhibits on Gold Rush history, early pioneer life, and local culture, and enjoy the charming historic surroundings as you wander the streets. Hours are limited, so be sure to check ahead before your visit.

Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Historic Coulterville ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Step back in time in Coulterville, a historic Gold Rush town and an official historic district. Pick up a historic walking tour map from the Northern Mariposa County History Center and explore the town at your own pace. From preserved storefronts and historic buildings to hidden stories of the Gold Rush era, nearly every corner of town offers a glimpse into the past.

Take Photos with Whistling Billy 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
This eight-ton wood-burning locomotive was once a tool of the Gold Rush Pioneers of Yosemite Mariposa County’s Mary Harrison Mine. Today, it’s a great photo-op in front of the Northern Mariposa County Museum and History Center.

Discover Chinese American History 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Explore an often-overlooked chapter of Sierra history by learning about the Chinese American communities who helped shape the Yosemite region during the Gold Rush and early tourism era. Stop by the former Sun Wah (Sun Woo) merchant store in Coulterville.

Leisure & Relaxation

El Camino del Oro | Scenic Drive through Coulterville 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take a leisurely drive along a section of Visit California’s recommended Highway 49 route, weaving through historic Gold Rush towns like Coulterville. Enjoy charming 1850s streets, scenic foothill views, and a taste of authentic Gold Country life.

Star Gaze – Stanislaus National Forest Dark Skies 👪🌸☀️🍂
Just around the Buck Meadows area lies Stanislaus National Forest, known for its dark skies and excellent stargazing potential, especially if you find a clear, open spot away from highway lights. Because it’s a large national forest with minimal light pollution, you can often see plenty of stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial wonders on clear nights.

Wellness

Forest Bathing in Stanislaus National Forest (near Buck Meadows) 🌸☀️🍂
Step into the peaceful woods of Stanislaus National Forest and immerse yourself among towering pines and open meadows. Breathe deeply, notice the textures of bark and leaves, and let the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest wash over you. This mindful walk is perfect for slowing down, reducing stress, and reconnecting with nature.

Northwestern Mariposa County

Lake McClure & Lake McSwain

Adventure & Outdoor

Hike to 360° Views at William’s Peak ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Hike to the top of William’s Peak for 360‑degree views of California’s Central Valley, the Merced River, and the Sierra Nevada foothills. The trail is approximately 2.6 miles round‑trip (about 1.3 miles each way) with roughly 721 feet of elevation gain, making it a rewarding half‑day adventure for most hikers. The route is largely exposed with little to no shade, so plan to hike January through April when temperatures are cooler, and be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against sun exposure on warm days.

Ride Exchequer Mountain Bike Park ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take on 700 acres of rolling trails at Exchequer Mountain Bike Park, where scenic views of Lake McClure and routes for all skill levels make for an unforgettable ride.

Hang Glide at Lake McClure 🌸☀️🍂
Keeping the local birds of prey company, the non-profit Mother Lode Sky Riders Association (MLSRA) promotes and stages hang gliding at Lake McClure.

Inflatable Water Obstacle Course at Lake McSwain 👪☀️
Splash-n-Dash Aqua Park is an inflatable, on-water obstacle course located at Lake McSwain. Find the impressive array of inflatable challenges and on-water acrobatics by the lake’s day-use picnic area.

Motor Powered Watersports at Lake McClure & Lake McSwain 👪☀️
Spend a fun-filled day on the water at Lake McClure or Lake McSwain, where boat rentals make it easy to enjoy waterskiing, tubing, or a leisurely cruise. Cast a line for trout, soak up the sun, and make the most of scenic lakeside camping. Note that Lake McSwain has boating restriction of maximum of 10mph.

Jet Skiing at Lake McClure 👪☀️
Beat the summer heat with thrilling jet skiing on Lake McClure, where rentals let you zip across the water and enjoy high-speed fun. Bring your own or rent on site. Lake McSwain offers calmer waters ideal for paddling and boating.

Foodie

Dine On or Near the Water 👪☀️
The Reel Deal Market & Café has two convenient lakeside locations to keep your day on the water fueled and fun. At Lake McSwain Marina, grab a casual bite, cold drinks, and picnic staples before or after kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming. Over at Barrett Cove Marina on Lake McClure, enjoy your meal right on the floating marina, taking in stunning lake views as you eat. Both locations also offer rentals, boating supplies, and snacks, making it easy to grab what you need for a full day of lakeside adventure.

History & Culture

Spot the Water Ruins at Bagby 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
When water levels at Lake McClure drop in late summer and fall, remnants of the historic Gold Rush town of Bagby reappear along the shoreline. Look for old foundations and stonework revealed only during these low-water periods.

Leisure & Relaxation

Sunset Paddles | Lake McClure & Lake McSwain 👪☀️
For a relaxed pace, glide across Lake McClure or Lake McSwain on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Calm waters, colorful sunsets, and reflections of the Sierra Nevada foothills make this a peaceful way to connect with the region’s natural beauty.

Float & Unwind 👪☀️
Grab a blow-up raft and a good book for a relaxing day on the water. Lake McSwain is perfect for a calm, peaceful float. Lake McClure allows motorsports, head for a secluded cove for quiet reading and soaking up the scenery.

Reel in the Fish Stories 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Reel in finned fighters at Lake McClure and Lake McSwain, Mariposa County’s twin fishing holes fed by the Wild & Scenic Merced River. Trout, bass, catfish, and more.

Southern Mariposa County

Hornitos, Catheys Valley

Adventure & Outdoor

Play at Catheys Valley Park 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Let the kids run off some energy at Catheys Valley Park, which features a fun playground and a baseball or softball field. It’s the perfect spot for a family outing in a relaxed, small-town setting.

Foodie

Plaza Bar | Historic Hornitos Hangout ❄️🌸☀️🍂
Step into Hornitos history at the Plaza Bar, once a mid-1800s butcher shop and now a classic local watering hole that’s been run by the same family since 1948. Stop by on weekends for a cold drink, a game of pool, and stories from locals, all set in a tiny Gold Rush town that feels like a movie set
History & Culture

Discover Local History at Catheys Valley 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Explore the historic side of Catheys Valley Park, home to a charming schoolhouse and an elegant stone monument made of Mariposite, a green-flecked rock first identified in Mariposa in 1868. Often found near gold, this unique stone sometimes even contains tiny gold inclusions, giving a glimpse into the region’s fascinating natural and mining history.

Taste of History | Ghirardelli’s Hornitos Roots 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Visit the remains of Domingo Ghirardelli’s original Hornitos general store, where the famed chocolatier got his start during the Gold Rush. Wander the historic site and imagine miners shopping for supplies and maybe enjoying a sweet treat over 150 years ago.

Historic Highlights | Catheys Valley 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Visit the Catheys Valley historical marker to uncover stories of the Miwuk people, the pioneering Cathey family, and the Chinese laborers who helped shape the valley in the 1850s.

Indian Gulch Historic Settlement Site 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Visit the site of Indian Gulch, a Gold Rush settlement that once buzzed with miners and frontier life. Today, all that remains is the historic cemetery and a marker, surrounded by peaceful hills where legends of bandit Joaquin Murrieta and Three Fingered Jack still echo. Legend has it that bandit hero Joaquin Murrieta built a tunnel from a local dance hall to his private horse stable to evade lawmen.

Remains of Agua Fria Mining Town 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Once a bustling town center, in 1850 Agua Fria boasted a hotel, pool hall, bowling alley, two banks, and about a dozen stores and several houses of ill repute. Now, little remains to be seen of the mining town that became the first Seat of Justice of Mariposa County except a Historic Marker and scattered foundations.

Visit Historic Hornitos Church 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Step back into the 1860s at St. Catherine Catholic Church in Hornitos, a charming reminder of the region’s early Gold Rush faith and architecture. The church is still used for special occasions, including a Mass near St. Catherine’s feast day in April and a candlelight All Souls Day service in November. Check ahead for open hours if you hope to step inside.

Leisure & Relaxation

Scenic Backroad Drive or Ride Through Rolling Foothills 👪❄️🌸☀️🍂
Take a leisurely drive through the Catheys Valley region and experience the changing beauty of California’s Sierra foothills. In spring, the rolling hills come alive in vibrant green, dotted with wildflowers. By summer, the fields turn golden, stretching as far as the eye can see, creating a classic foothill landscape. Start in Catheys Valley and take Catheys Valley Road toward La Grange Road, looping through quiet country lanes past ranches, grazing cattle, and historic farmhouses. This route offers plenty of spots to pull over, snap photos, and simply enjoy the peaceful scenery of small-town ranching country.