While you may be eager to explore South Yuba River State Park and the historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge, don’t rush into the park just yet. Plan your trip to savor the journey through this beautiful part of the county. In addition to the stunning scenery within the park, you can delve into the rich history of the Gold Rush, sample acclaimed local wines, and cap off your day with a world-class dinner on this Penn Valley Tour.
Arrive In Grass Valley
Begin your adventure by spending the night in Grass Valley, a charming historic Gold Rush town filled with antique and boutique shops, delicious restaurants, tasting rooms, lively bars, and art galleries. Grass Valley also boasts a great selection of vacation accommodations from B&Bs to luxurious suites in a classic hotel.
But First Breakfast
Following a good night’s rest, kick off your day with a delicious breakfast in downtown Grass Valley. Whether you’re in the mood for the culinary delights of the gluten-free Corvus Bakery or the finest brunch at South Pine Café, you’ll find a wide range of dining options to suit every palate and dietary need.
Stop 1: Pick Up Your Picnic Fare
After breakfast, if you’re in town on Saturday mornings or Tuesdays, take a stroll through the four-decade-old Grass Valley Farmers Market to gather picnic lunch essentials from local farms and businesses. Alternatively, head west on Highway 20 to Penn Valley and stop by the Blue Cow Deli. Here, you’ll find a variety of vegetarian options, as well as hot and cold sandwiches on gourmet breads, delicious soups, and fresh salads.
Stop 2: South Yuba River State Park
Now that you’ve gathered your picnic supplies, continue your journey to South Yuba River State Park at Bridgeport. Start your adventure at the Visitor Center and Gift Shop.
Here, you’ll find essential information, such as trail maps and updates on what is open or closed within the park. Additionally, the building features exhibits covering a variety of topics, including displays of local wildlife, aspects of Native American culture, and information about the first European settlers in Bridgeport.
Prepare for your visit:
Year-Round Fun
Discover an array of activities to enjoy. Hikers can choose from short, easy trails to longer, more rugged ones, with options for every skill level. If fishing is your preference, you’ll find the Sacramento pike minnow is abundant year-round, while colder water temperatures can yield smallmouth bass or brown trout. Remember, fishing licenses are required for ages 16 and up.
Don’t miss the Historic Barn and the conserved Wagon collection, which beautifully illustrate “The Story of Two Hundred Years of Transportation” from Western Nevada County to the gold and silver mining fields.
Seasonal Beauty
Each season offers its own unique experiences to enjoy in the park. In spring, the landscape bursts with vibrant wildflower displays. This abundance of wildflowers attracts a variety of bird species, making South Yuba River State Park a key stop for migrating birds. You might spot the small but mighty American dipper swimming underwater in the rapids or see a bald eagle soaring overhead. Guided bird walks are available in both spring and fall.
As summer arrives, the park features gold panning demonstrations every weekend in the troughs next to the visitor center. It’s also a popular time for visitors to cool off in the pristine swimming holes surrounded by smooth granite rocks. Keep in mind that these waters are fed by snowmelt, which can make the Yuba River Flow extremely dangerous in the early and mid-summer timeframe. Be sure to check our Yuba River Swimming Holes Do’s & Don’ts before diving in.
Stop 3: Taste The County’s Flavors
Then celebrate a day well spent outdoors by visiting Penn Valley’s Gray Pine Winery, a member of the Sierra Vintners Trail. If you prefer beer, head to Bullmastiff Brewing, where you can enjoy locally sourced brews along with their unique Bullmastiff bites.
For a classic steak dinner or grilled seafood, check out Tack Room, a traditional western-style roadhouse BBQ restaurant. And for foodies, a reservation at Twelve 28 Kitchen in Penn Valley is a must. This charming establishment rivals many high-end restaurants in San Francisco with its exceptional food quality and presentation.
With your soul re-charged from the day’s adventure, it’s time to return back to your accommodations in Grass Valley for the night.
