What makes a great road trip? Think of it like the perfect recipe—diverse landscapes, scenic byways, and plenty of attractions to check out along the way, all within a few hundred miles. Well, Nevada County has all that and more! From grasslands with wildflower meadows to historic towns and high alpine granite peaks, you’re in for a treat. This 3-day road trip from SF takes you on a journey through the best of Nevada County, letting you dive into California’s history, all starting from San Francisco, heading to Truckee, and back again.
Day 1
SF to Bridgeport Covered Bridge
Travel Time: 2 hr 30 minutes – 152 miles
Grab your gear and head east into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Coffee lovers should stop by Java Dream Coffee Roasters in Penn Valley, while breakfast enthusiasts won’t want to miss Daybreak Café. Once you’re fueled up, make your way north to South Yuba River State Park, home to the Historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge. This iconic bridge is one of the oldest housed spans in the West and the longest single-span wooden-covered bridge in the country. If you’re visiting in spring, don’t forget your binoculars—wildflowers are in bloom, and hundreds of bird species are migrating north.
Empire Mine State Historic Park
Travel Time: 25 minutes – 16 miles
Next up is Empire Mine State Historic Park, another of Nevada County’s countless state parks. Take a tour of what was once the richest hard rock gold mine in California. The park also features the Bourne Cottage—really more of a mansion—offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Gold Rush high society.
Grass Valley Museum
Keep diving into Nevada County’s Gold Rush history and set off on a Heritage Homes walking tour through downtown Grass Valley. The digital guide will take you through the stories behind many of these historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the past. Then finish the tour at with a visit to the Grass Valley Museum. Located on the second floor of the Convent Building at St. Joseph’s Cultural Center, this museum offers a mix of fascinating artifacts that shed light on the lives lost and families shattered by mining. You’ll also find unique items, like the tub once owned by exotic dancer Lola Montez.
For your evening stay, you’ve got plenty of options in Grass Valley or Nevada City. Whether you’re into glamping (or camping) at the award-winning Inn Town Campground or prefer the charm of historic spots like the Holbrooke Hotel, you’ll find something that suits your vibe. And if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into the local culture with these 10 ways to explore the vibrant art scene in Nevada County. Or, after dinner, take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the Public Art Walk through Grass Valley.
Day 2
Now that you’re refreshed, it’s time to explore the historic heart of Grass Valley and Nevada City. Stroll through the charming downtowns, where you’ll find unique shops perfect for picking up a gift or keepsake, all nestled in buildings dating back to the late 19th century.
Nevada City Walking Tour
To truly experience what makes Nevada County special, take the smartphone-guided Nevada City Walking Tour. Lasting about an hour and a half, the tour uses the city’s stunning vistas and notable buildings to highlight key moments in Nevada City’s history, spanning from 1850 all the way to the 1970s.
Firehouse #1
One of the other must-see buildings is the Nevada County Historical Society Museum, housed inside Firehouse #1, one of the area’s most Instagrammed attractions. Step inside to discover a rich collection of cultural artifacts, including authentic items from the Donner Party and altars from the Hou Wang Temple in Grass Valley’s Chinatown.
Gold mining may have put Nevada County on the map, but today the region is just as well-known for its agricultural abundance and vibrant art scene. Be sure to experience the local flavors by dining at one of the many establishments that showcase the area’s bounty, such as Heartwood.
Omega Diggins Overlook
Travel Time: 22 minutes – 17 miles
Heading east from Nevada City along one of the county’s scenic drives, you’ll climb just a few miles and a few thousand feet before reaching the Omega Diggins Overlook. This spot offers not only a stunning view for sunset but also a bird’s-eye view of the South Yuba River canyon, showcasing both natural beauty and historic landmarks. Among them are the 1800s hydraulic mine sites, including Omega Diggins and the nearby Alpha Diggins.
Donner Summit – Hub Trails
Travel Time: 35 minutes – 33 miles
As you continue your ascent toward Truckee, exit I-80 and take the more scenic Donner Pass Highway. While the road is rich in history, one landmark stands out: the Lamson-Cashion Hub. Local historian Bill Oudegeest called it the most important site in California’s history, due to its significance in trade and migration over thousands of years. From here, you can set off into countless mountain adventures or explore the region’s rich history and culture.
Truckee
Travel Time: 17 minutes – 9.2 miles
Truckee has no shortage of places to crash after a day of exploring. Whether you’re cozying up in a lodge surrounded by towering pines or unwinding at a lakeside B&B on Donner Lake, there’s something for everyone. Check out the full list of spots to stay by heading over to Visit Truckee-Tahoe’s lodging page.
Day 3
Whether you’re in the mood to kick back with a leisurely brunch at one of Truckee’s cozy breakfast spots or dive into the town’s history or outdoor activities, there’s something for every pace.
Stroll Historic Downtown Truckee via Self-Guided Tour
Stroll through the historic downtown, check out the unique local shops, and learn about the area’s past with a self-guided walking tour. If you’re into craft brews, don’t miss out on the local breweries. And of course, get outdoors—whether you’re cruising along the paved paths or hitting the dirt trails, Truckee’s inclusive outdoor lifestyle is yours to embrace.
Donner Memorial State Park
Travel Time: 7 minutes – 2.7 miles
Each state park in Nevada County offers a unique look into the area’s history. At Donner Memorial State Park, you can discover its ties to the transcontinental railroad, pioneer history, the Donner Party, and more through its museum and exhibits. Depending on when you visit, the park also offers ranger-led tours by mountain bike, snowshoes, or even kayaks. To find out what’s available during your visit, check out the schedule and details.
SFO
Travel Time: 3 hours – 186 miles
