Did you know that Nevada County, California is home to the oldest continuously operating theater in California, the Nevada Theatre, which has been entertaining audiences since 1865? This historic gem is just one of the many treasures awaiting visitors to this charming region nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills. From gold rush history and pristine rivers to vibrant arts scenes and farm-to-table dining, Nevada County offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm that keeps visitors coming back season after season.
Getting to Nevada County, California
Nevada County is conveniently located in Northern California, approximately 60 miles northeast of Sacramento. The most common way to reach the area is by flying into Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and then driving to Nevada County.
Ready to Book Your Flight?
Find the best deals on flights to Sacramento to begin your Nevada County adventure.
If you’re coming from the San Francisco Bay Area, the drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. From Reno, Nevada, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive. Interstate 80 provides easy access to the region, with Highway 49 (the historic Gold Country Highway) connecting the main towns of Nevada City, Grass Valley, and Truckee.
Best Time to Visit Nevada County
Nevada County experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities:
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings wildflower blooms along hiking trails, particularly at South Yuba River State Park’s Buttermilk Bend Trail. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 55-75°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Spring is also when local farmers markets begin to open for the season.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is peak season for swimming in the Yuba River’s emerald pools and attending outdoor concerts and festivals. Temperatures typically range from 75-95°F. This is also the best time for hiking in the higher elevations and enjoying outdoor dining in the historic downtowns.
Fall (September-November)
Fall offers spectacular foliage displays, especially in Nevada City and Grass Valley’s historic districts. The weather remains pleasant (60-80°F) through October, and harvest season brings wine tasting and farm events. The Victorian California Fall Colors Tour is particularly popular.
Winter (December-February)
Winter transforms Nevada County with occasional snowfall in the foothills and regular snow in higher elevations like Truckee. Victorian Christmas celebrations in Nevada City create a magical atmosphere. Temperatures range from 35-55°F in the foothills, while Truckee sees colder temperatures perfect for winter sports.
Festival Season
Nevada County hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Wild & Scenic Film Festival in January, Nevada City Film Festival in summer, and Victorian Christmas in December. Check event calendars when planning your visit to catch these special celebrations.
Shoulder Seasons
For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider visiting during May-June or September-October. These shoulder seasons offer the perfect balance of good weather and less competition for accommodations and river swimming spots.
Where to Stay in Nevada County
Nevada County offers a diverse range of accommodations, from historic hotels and bed & breakfasts to modern lodges and rustic camping options. Each area provides a different experience, so consider what activities you’re planning when choosing where to stay.
Nevada City
Stay in the heart of Gold Country in one of Nevada City’s historic hotels or B&Bs. The recently renovated National Exchange Hotel offers a luxurious step back in time with Victorian-era charm and modern amenities. For a more intimate experience, consider the Broad Street Inn or other boutique accommodations within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.
Grass Valley
Just a few minutes from Nevada City, Grass Valley offers its own historic charm and accommodation options. The Holbrooke Hotel, built in 1852 and recently refurbished, provides a blend of Gold Rush history and contemporary comfort. There are also several chain hotels on the outskirts of town for those seeking familiar accommodations.
Truckee & Donner Summit
For those focused on mountain activities or winter sports, Truckee offers a range of lodging options from luxury resorts to cozy cabins. This area provides easy access to skiing, hiking, and lake activities, with a charming historic downtown of its own.
Camping & Outdoor Options
Nevada County boasts numerous campgrounds, including sites at Scotts Flat Lake, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, and throughout Tahoe National Forest. For a unique experience, try the Inn Town Campground in Nevada City, which offers traditional tent sites alongside glamping options with electricity and comfortable beds.
Vacation Rentals
Cabin and home rentals are abundant throughout the region, offering privacy and often spectacular views. These are particularly popular for families or longer stays, with options ranging from rustic cabins to luxury homes with modern amenities.
Van Life & Alternative Options
Nevada County has embraced the van life movement with designated areas for overnight parking and amenities for travelers in self-contained vehicles. Check local regulations as options and rules vary by location.
Find Your Perfect Nevada County Accommodation
From historic hotels to mountain cabins, find the ideal place to stay during your visit.
Getting Around Nevada County
Nevada County covers a relatively large area with varying terrain, from the foothills towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley to the higher elevation areas around Truckee. Having your own transportation is highly recommended to fully explore the region.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all that Nevada County has to offer, from historic towns to hidden swimming holes.
While public transportation options are limited, there are some services available:
- Gold Country Stage provides bus service between Nevada City, Grass Valley, and surrounding communities
- Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit (TART) serves the Truckee area
- Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the more populated areas but may be limited in rural parts
- Several local taxi services are available in the larger towns
- Bicycle rentals are available in Nevada City at Tour of Nevada City Bicycle Shop for exploring the local area
For visitors planning to explore multiple areas of Nevada County, a rental car provides the most flexibility. The drive between Nevada City/Grass Valley and Truckee takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on weather conditions.
Top Attractions in Nevada County
Historic Sites & Gold Rush History
Nevada County’s rich Gold Rush history is preserved in numerous well-maintained historic sites that offer visitors a glimpse into California’s formative years.
Empire Mine State Historic Park
One of the oldest, largest, and richest gold mines in California, Empire Mine operated for more than 100 years before closing in 1956. Today, visitors can explore the mine yard with its historic buildings, peek into the mine shaft, tour the magnificent owner’s cottage and gardens, and learn about mining techniques through exhibits and demonstrations.
Location: 10791 E. Empire St., Grass Valley
Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
This site preserves the largest hydraulic mining operation in California and the ghost town of North Bloomfield. The dramatic landscape created by hydraulic mining is both beautiful and sobering. Visitors can explore the historic buildings, try gold panning, and hike through the unique terrain created by this controversial mining method.
Location: 23579 N. Bloomfield Rd., Nevada City
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum
Dedicated to preserving local transportation history, this museum features exhibits on the narrow gauge railroad that once connected Nevada City and Grass Valley to the transcontinental railroad. Highlights include Engine 5, an 1875 Baldwin locomotive, and restored wooden rail cars. Docent-led tours provide fascinating insights into the area’s transportation history.
Location: 5 Kidder Court, Nevada City
Natural Attractions & Outdoor Recreation
Nevada County’s diverse landscape offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, from swimming in pristine rivers to hiking through forests and mountains.
South Yuba River State Park
Famous for its emerald swimming holes and smooth granite boulders, the South Yuba River is a must-visit natural attraction. The park offers multiple access points, with Bridgeport (home to the longest single-span covered bridge in the world) being the most developed. Popular swimming spots include Purdon Crossing, Highway 49 Bridge, and Edwards Crossing.
Tip: River conditions can be dangerous during spring runoff. Always check water levels and safety advisories before swimming.
Buttermilk Bend Trail
This easy 2-mile out-and-back trail follows the South Yuba River and is renowned for its spectacular wildflower displays in spring (March-May). The trail offers beautiful river views year-round and is accessible for most fitness levels. Docent-led wildflower walks are available during peak bloom season.
Location: South Yuba River State Park, near Bridgeport
Scotts Flat Lake
This reservoir offers swimming, fishing, boating, and camping just a few miles from Nevada City. The lake is particularly popular during summer months when visitors seek relief from the heat. Boat rentals are available, and the surrounding pine forests provide scenic hiking opportunities.
Location: 5 miles east of Nevada City
Historic Downtowns
Nevada County’s historic downtowns are attractions in themselves, offering well-preserved architecture, unique shopping, and a glimpse into California’s Gold Rush era.
Nevada City
Often described as one of California’s best-preserved Gold Rush towns, Nevada City’s downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Broad Street forms the heart of the historic district, lined with Victorian-era buildings housing boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and the iconic National Exchange Hotel. Don’t miss the Nevada Theatre, California’s oldest existing theater building (1865).
Don’t Miss: Crystal Rainbow Rock Shop, Kitkitdizzi, and the Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe
Grass Valley
Just a few minutes from Nevada City, Grass Valley offers its own historic charm centered around Mill Street. Highlights include the Art Deco Del Oro Theatre, the historic Holbrooke Hotel, and numerous shops and restaurants. The town’s Cornish heritage is evident in local specialties like pasties (savory hand pies) found at several eateries.
Don’t Miss: Mill and Main, Element + Loft, and Grass Valley Pasty Co.
Truckee
Located in the higher elevations of Nevada County, historic downtown Truckee offers a mountain town atmosphere with its preserved Commercial Row dating back to the 1870s. The pedestrian-friendly downtown features galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and access to outdoor recreation in all seasons.
Don’t Miss: Truckee Certified Farmers Market (Tuesdays, summer-fall)
Outdoor Activities in Nevada County
Hiking & Biking
Nevada County offers a wealth of trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels, from easy riverside paths to challenging mountain routes.
- Independence Trail: The nation’s first wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail, offering beautiful Yuba River views
- Cascade Canal Trail: A popular, relatively flat trail following a historic mining canal with forest shade
- Deer Creek Environs Trail: An easy in-town hike in Nevada City featuring a suspension bridge over Deer Creek
- American Hill Loop: A local favorite walking route through Nevada City neighborhoods with scenic views
- Pioneer Trail: A 25-mile multi-use trail through Tahoe National Forest between Nevada City and Truckee
- Hirschman Trail: A family-friendly trail near Nevada City leading to Hirschman Pond, a former hydraulic mining site
Mountain biking is particularly popular in Nevada County, with the local organization Bicyclists of Nevada County (BONC) maintaining many trails. Bike rentals are available at Tour of Nevada City Bicycle Shop for visitors wanting to explore on two wheels.
Water Activities
With the Yuba River and several lakes within its boundaries, Nevada County is a paradise for water enthusiasts during the warmer months.
- Swimming: The South Yuba River’s emerald pools are perfect for cooling off in summer (use caution and check conditions)
- Whitewater Rafting: Spring snowmelt creates exciting rafting conditions on the South and Middle Yuba Rivers
- Fishing: Try your luck catching trout in the Yuba River or bass at Scotts Flat and Rollins Lakes
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Explore the calm waters of local lakes or brave the river rapids depending on your skill level
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Scotts Flat Lake offers ideal conditions for paddleboarding with rentals available seasonally
- Gold Panning: Try your hand at finding gold in the same rivers that sparked the California Gold Rush
Safety Note: The Yuba River can be extremely dangerous during high water periods, typically spring through early summer. Always check conditions before swimming and never dive into pools as underwater hazards may exist.
Winter Sports
The higher elevations of Nevada County transform into a winter playground when snow falls, offering a variety of cold-weather activities.
- Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding: Nearby resorts include Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley), Sugar Bowl, and Boreal
- Cross-Country Skiing: Royal Gorge Cross Country Resort offers 140km of groomed trails near Donner Summit
- Snowshoeing: Explore the tranquil winter landscape on numerous trails throughout Tahoe National Forest
- Sledding & Tubing: Family-friendly snow play areas can be found at Tahoe Donner and Soda Springs
- Winter Hiking: Lower elevation trails around Nevada City and Grass Valley often remain accessible year-round
Even in winter, the lower elevations around Nevada City and Grass Valley typically receive only occasional snow, making them accessible year-round while still providing easy access to winter sports in the higher elevations.
Arts, Culture & Events in Nevada County
Nevada County has a thriving arts scene that belies its small population, attracting artists, musicians, and creative professionals from around the world. The region hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year.
Film Festivals
Nevada County hosts several renowned film festivals annually:
- Wild & Scenic Film Festival: Held in January, this environmental film festival is one of the largest of its kind in North America
- Nevada City Film Festival: Known as “The Sundance of the Sierra,” this summer festival showcases independent films
- Movies Under the Pines: Outdoor film screenings in Pioneer Park during summer months
Music & Performing Arts
Live music and theater are integral to Nevada County’s cultural scene:
- The Center for the Arts: A premier performing arts venue in Grass Valley hosting national touring acts
- Nevada Theatre: California’s oldest operating theater features films, plays, and musical performances
- Music in the Mountains: Classical music concerts and educational programs
- California WorldFest: A four-day world music festival held at the Nevada County Fairgrounds
Seasonal Events
Special events throughout the year celebrate local culture and history:
- Victorian Christmas: Nevada City transforms into a living Christmas card with period costumes and decorations in December
- Cornish Christmas: Grass Valley celebrates its Cornish heritage with this holiday tradition
- Nevada County Fair: A classic county fair held in August featuring agriculture, entertainment, and carnival rides
- Constitution Day Parade: The oldest and largest Constitution observance in western America (September)
Art Galleries & Creative Spaces
Nevada County’s creative community is showcased in numerous galleries and maker spaces:
- Miners Foundry Cultural Center: A historic foundry turned cultural center hosting events and exhibitions
- LeeAnn Brook Fine Art: Contemporary gallery featuring regional artists in Nevada City
- The Alexander Gallery: Fine art gallery in downtown Nevada City
- Art Works Gallery: Co-op gallery featuring over 30 local artists in downtown Grass Valley
- Curious Forge: A maker space offering classes in everything from blacksmithing to glassblowing
- Nevada County Arts Council: Supports local arts through events, education, and advocacy
For visitors interested in creating their own art, many galleries and studios offer workshops and classes ranging from one-day experiences to multi-week courses.
Food & Drink in Nevada County
Farm-to-Table Dining
Nevada County’s agricultural bounty and creative culinary scene combine to offer exceptional dining experiences, with many restaurants emphasizing locally sourced ingredients.
Nevada City Favorites
- Ike’s Quarter Cafe: New Orleans-inspired cuisine with organic ingredients and vegetarian options
- Lola at The National: Upscale dining in the historic National Exchange Hotel
- Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co: Artisan bakery, brewery, and cafe with seasonal menu
- Heartwood: Health-focused cafe with creative toasts, bowls, and specialty drinks
- Sushi-in-the-Raw: Fresh, creative sushi in a cozy setting (reservations recommended)
Grass Valley Dining
- Watershed: Farm-to-table restaurant with seasonal menu and craft cocktails
- Golden Gate Saloon: Historic restaurant in the Holbrooke Hotel offering California cuisine
- Diego’s: Chilean-inspired South American cuisine in a relaxed setting
- Grass Valley Pasty Co: Traditional Cornish pasties honoring the area’s mining heritage
- The Willo: Classic roadhouse steakhouse where you can grill your own steak
Farmers Markets
- Nevada City Farmers Market: Saturdays, 8:30am-1pm (April-November)
- Grass Valley Farmers Market: Saturdays, 8am-1pm and Tuesdays, 9am-1pm
- Truckee Certified Farmers Market: Tuesdays, 8am-1pm (summer-fall)
Local markets feature fresh produce, artisanal foods, crafts, and often live music, creating a community gathering space.
Wine & Beer
Nevada County has a growing wine and craft beer scene, with numerous tasting rooms and breweries to explore.
Wineries & Tasting Rooms
- Nevada City Winery: Downtown tasting room offering wines produced from Sierra Foothills grapes
- Lucchesi Vineyards: Family-owned winery with tasting room in downtown Grass Valley
- Montoliva Vineyard: Specializing in Italian varietals in the Chicago Park area
- Sierra Starr Vineyard: Award-winning wines with tasting room in downtown Grass Valley
- Pilot Peak Winery: Beautiful garden setting for wine tasting near Penn Valley
Breweries & Taprooms
- Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co: Craft brewery and bakery in Nevada City
- Grass Valley Brewing Company: Downtown brewery with rotating taps and outdoor seating
- Ribald Brewing: Craft brewery in Nevada City with unique beer varieties
- Golden Era Cocktail Bar: Craft cocktails in a Victorian setting with occasional live music
- Jernigan’s Tap House & Grill: 13 craft beers on tap and pub fare
Coffee & Treats
- FoxHound Espresso: Locally roasted coffee in Nevada City
- The Curly Wolf: Eclectic cafe with specialty drinks and occasional live music
- Java John’s: Classic small-town coffee shop in Nevada City
- Treats Ice Cream: Homemade ice cream with seasonal flavors in Nevada City
- Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe: Handmade chocolates and seasonal treats
Day Trips & Itineraries
Nevada County’s central location makes it ideal for exploring the Sierra Nevada region. Here are some suggested itineraries and day trips to make the most of your visit.
Historic Towns Tour (1 Day)
- Morning: Explore downtown Nevada City, visit the Firehouse No. 1 Museum and Nevada Theatre
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.
- Afternoon: Drive to Grass Valley to visit the Empire Mine State Historic Park
- Evening: Dinner at The Holbrooke Hotel followed by a stroll through downtown Grass Valley
Outdoor Adventure Day (1 Day)
- Morning: Hike the Buttermilk Bend Trail at South Yuba River State Park
- Lunch: Picnic by the river (bring your own or pick up supplies in town)
- Afternoon: Swimming at a Yuba River swimming hole (seasonal) or visit Bridgeport Covered Bridge
- Evening: Dinner at Ike’s Quarter Cafe followed by ice cream at Treats
Arts & Culture Day (1 Day)
- Morning: Visit local art galleries in Nevada City
- Lunch: Meal at Heartwood Cafe
- Afternoon: Tour the Miners Foundry Cultural Center and shop at local boutiques
- Evening: Dinner at Lola followed by a show at Nevada Theatre or The Center for the Arts
Weekend Itineraries
Gold Country Explorer (3 Days)
Day 1: Arrive and explore downtown Nevada City, dinner at Sushi-in-the-Raw
Day 2: Morning at Empire Mine State Historic Park, afternoon wine tasting at local wineries, evening show at The Center for the Arts
Day 3: Visit Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park and the ghost town of North Bloomfield, try gold panning
Outdoor Enthusiast (3 Days)
Day 1: Hike the Independence Trail, swim in the Yuba River (seasonal), dinner at Three Forks
Day 2: Mountain biking on local trails (rentals available), afternoon at Scotts Flat Lake, dinner at The Willo
Day 3: Drive to Truckee for hiking or skiing (seasonal), explore historic downtown Truckee
Family Fun (3 Days)
Day 1: Explore downtown Nevada City, visit the Firehouse Museum, ice cream at Treats
Day 2: Morning at Empire Mine State Historic Park, afternoon at Scotts Flat Lake for swimming
Day 3: Visit the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, picnic at Pioneer Park
Make the Most of Your Nevada County Adventure
Book guided tours and activities to enhance your visit to Nevada County.
Practical Tips for Visiting Nevada County
Make the most of your Nevada County visit with these helpful tips and local insights.
Weather & What to Pack
- Nevada County has four distinct seasons with varying temperatures
- Summers can be hot (80-95°F) in the foothills, so bring light clothing, sun protection, and swimwear
- Spring and fall see mild days (60-80°F) and cooler evenings (40-50°F) – layers are recommended
- Winter brings occasional snow to Nevada City/Grass Valley and regular snow to Truckee – pack accordingly
- Hiking shoes or comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring
- If visiting the Yuba River, water shoes with good grip are highly recommended
Local Etiquette & Safety
- Practice “Leave No Trace” principles when visiting natural areas
- River safety is crucial – never swim alone and always check conditions
- Parking in historic downtowns can be limited – some meters in Nevada City are still coin-operated
- Fire danger is high in summer and fall – follow all fire restrictions
- Cell service can be spotty in rural areas – download maps in advance
- Support local businesses and respect the small-town atmosphere
Accessibility
- Historic downtowns have varying levels of accessibility due to their age
- Empire Mine State Historic Park has accessible paths and facilities
- Independence Trail was designed specifically for wheelchair accessibility
- Many wineries and restaurants offer accessible options
- Contact specific venues in advance to confirm accessibility features
Visitor Resources
- Nevada City Chamber of Commerce: 132 Main St, Nevada City – offers maps, brochures, and local information
- Grass Valley-Nevada County Chamber of Commerce: 128 E Main St, Grass Valley – additional visitor resources
- South Yuba River State Park Visitor Center: Located at Bridgeport – information on river conditions and trails
- GoNevadaCounty.com: Official tourism website with events calendar and trip planning resources
- Tahoe National Forest Ranger Station: Information on forest trails, conditions, and permits
Experience the Magic of Nevada County
From the emerald swimming holes of the Yuba River to the historic streets of Nevada City and Grass Valley, Nevada County offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm. Whether you’re panning for gold, hiking through pine forests, sampling local wines, or enjoying a performance at California’s oldest theater, this Sierra foothills gem provides unforgettable experiences in every season.
With its accessible location between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, Nevada County makes an ideal destination for a day trip, weekend getaway, or extended vacation. The region’s diverse attractions ensure there’s something for everyone – outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, foodies, art lovers, and families alike will find plenty to explore and enjoy.
So pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and sense of adventure, and discover why Nevada County continues to captivate visitors with its unique combination of Gold Rush heritage and contemporary mountain lifestyle. The treasures you’ll find here – whether natural wonders, cultural experiences, or simply moments of connection with a slower pace of life – will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.
