Tuolumne is always beautiful all year round but for nature-lovers out there, spring is the best time to hike some of the best trails California has to offer! Hiking is the number one visitor activity in Tuolumne County. Thousands of kilometers of trails provide one-of-a-kind treks for hikers of any skill level on the Stanislaus National Forest. Journey into the wilderness to alpine lakes and rivers or stay closer to the beaten path. Many lakes offer a refreshing break from the road. Easily accessible Pinecrest Lake is a popular spot with a lot of opportunities such as hiking and fishing year-round and swimming, boating (boat rentals available) or just basking in the sunshine during spring and summer. If you’re down for a more Americana local experience, the town of Twain Harte is a great place to start with quaint shops and galleries. Feel like a kid again at the “vintage” Twain Harte Mini Golf course which is over 65 years old. The town and surrounding communities offer many vacation rentals and cabins for a stunning getaway in the mountains.
On the other hand, summer in Tuolumne County has California’s best activities and trails! World-famous whitewater rafting offers everything from float boats to Class 5 runs on the Tuolumne and Stanislaus rivers. The wild and scenic Tuolumne, named the No. 1 rafting river by The San Francisco Chronicle, is California’s premier wilderness whitewater destination. Tuolumne County also offers some of the most fun on two-wheels around. Road biking and mountain biking are evolving fast in the county, and whether you’re starting out or are a seasoned veteran of the cycling world, a trail exists with your name on it. From meandering railroad grades to single-track downhills, find your favourite one in Tuolumne County Trails or Groveland Trail Heads.