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California Gold Country Bike Tour

Explore the historic Sierra foothills by bike

Why the Gold Country?

What makes the Gold Country a special place for a bicycle trip? This region of countless streams and rolling hills rests at the western edge of the great Sierra Nevada Range. Gold was discovered here in 1848 and touched off the largest gold rush in history, and reminders of those wild west days still can be found throughout the region.

History

First time visitors to the Gold Country are delighted to discover that a great deal of the gold rush heritage has been preserved, from restored old mining towns to historic hotels to 19th century saloons. What you won't find much of are shopping malls, chain stores, or fast food outlets. The rampant development that has reached into much of the country has passed the area, leaving a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.

The New Gold Country

The lack of national chain stores and hotels doesn't mean the region is run down. Far from it. The gold rush towns of yesteryear now are home to charming bed and breakfast inns, quaint historic hotels, award-winning wineries, fine restaurants, antique shops and art galleries.

The Landscape

The terrain of the Gold Country is dominated by rolling grassy hills, dotted with oak and pine. The melting snows of the great Sierra Nevada flow down countless rivers and streams, carving small canyons into the hills as they make their way to the great valley below. Quiet rural roads wind through this landscape, past grazing cattle, sheep, and even a few llamas. The most recent addition to the landscape are family owned wineries, where the sunny days and broad hillsides help produce award winning wines.

The Climate

Frankly, summertime in the Gold Country is just too hot for good cycling. This is also the busiest tourist season. We prefer to visit in early Spring and Fall, when the weather is comfortable and the crowds are mostly gone. In our opinion, these are the best times to visit. In March, the hillsides are a rich green, as daffodils peek out from above the young grasses. The average high temperature in March is about 65 F, comfortably cool. In October, the hills are golden and the air is warm. Average high temperature in October is about 78 F, warm but not hot.

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Reserve Your Trip Now

With the popularity of this Gold Country trip, it's best to book a space early. We only visit this unique region three times a year and limit the number of guests to 12, so don't delay. Reserve your space now!