Mariposa County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and travel options in Mariposa County, California.


Introduction to Mariposa County

Mariposa County is a stunning destination in Sierra Nevada, California, home to iconic landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Dubbed the “Mother of Counties,” it is one of the original 27 counties of California, established in 1850, during the gold rush. Mariposa County covers over 1,450 square miles of natural beauty, including Yosemite National Park, Sierra National Forest, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Mariposa County

There’s a lot to explore and enjoy in Mariposa County, ranging from museums and historical landmarks to outdoor adventures and scenic drives.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mariposa Museum and History Center

Located in the historic Mariposa County Courthouse, this museum features exhibits on local history, public programs, and research activities.

California State Mining and Mineral Museum

A must-visit attraction for anyone interested in geology, mining history, and mineralogy. It features a vast collection of specimens, including the 13.8-pound Fricot Nugget, one of the largest gold nuggets found in California.

Mariposa County Arts Council

A vibrant arts center that fosters creativity and community engagement through exhibitions, workshops, and performances.

Natural Attractions of Mariposa County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Yosemite National Park

One of the most iconic national parks in the world, Yosemite boasts awe-inspiring natural wonders, such as Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and more. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, camping, fishing, and skiing, depending on the season.

Sierra National Forest

A vast wilderness area with over 1.3 million acres of forests, mountains, rivers, and lakes. Sierra National Forest offers numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, backpacking, fishing, horseback riding, and more.

Merced River Canyon

A scenic drive along the Merced River Canyon offers breathtaking views of rock formations, waterfalls, and wildflowers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mariposa County

Mariposa County is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park - a 3-mile roundtrip hike that takes you to two iconic waterfalls, Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.
  • Sentinel Dome Trail in Yosemite National Park - a 2.2-mile roundtrip hike that offers stunning panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.
  • Lower Yosemite Falls Trail in Yosemite National Park - an easy 1-mile roundtrip hike that leads to the base of one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.
  • Hite Cove Trail - a 10-mile roundtrip hike that follows the Merced River Canyon and offers spectacular views of wildflowers in the spring.
  • Coulterville to Greeley Hill Loop - a 17-mile bike ride that takes you through scenic countryside, gold mining towns, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Mariposa County: Activities and Tours

Mariposa County offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best ones to consider:

  • Yosemite Valley Floor Tour - a 2-hour tour that takes you to the highlights of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
  • Horseback Riding in Yosemite - a guided tour that allows you to explore the park’s wilderness on horseback, with options for half-day or full-day rides.
  • Whitewater Rafting on the Merced River - a thrilling adventure that takes you through Class III and IV rapids, with stunning views of the canyon and waterfalls.
  • Wine Tasting in Mariposa County - several wineries and tasting rooms offer local wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Merlot.
  • Gold Panning in Mariposa County - a fun and educational experience that allows you to learn about the gold rush history and try your luck at finding gold flakes and nuggets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mariposa County

To make the most of your visit to Mariposa County, here’s a sample week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Mariposa and check-in at the hotel. Explore the historic town center and have dinner at 1850 Restaurant, famous for its locally sourced cuisine.

Day 2: Drive to Yosemite National Park and hike to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. Have lunch at The Ahwahnee Hotel and return to Mariposa for a guided walking tour of the town’s historic landmarks.

Day 3: Take a wine tour of local wineries, such as Casto Oaks, Butterfly Creek, and Idle Hour Winery. Have lunch at Savoury’s, a farm-to-table restaurant in Mariposa.

Day 4: Go on a horseback ride in Yosemite National Park, followed by dinner at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel.

Day 5: Spend the day whitewater rafting on the Merced River or hiking in Sierra National Forest. Have dinner at Miner’s Roadhouse 140, known for its burgers and beer selections.

Day 6: Visit the Mariposa Museum and History Center and the California State Mining and Mineral Museum. Have lunch at Charles Street Dinner House, a classic American diner.

Day 7: Take a scenic drive along Highway 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite National Park, stopping at Merced River Canyon and other viewpoints. Have dinner at Sugar Pine Cafe, a family-owned restaurant serving comfort food.

Food and Drink Scene of Mariposa County

Mariposa County is a culinary delight, with a variety of dining options ranging from fine dining to casual cafes.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Marsala at 1850 Restaurant
  • Mariposa Burger at Miner’s Roadhouse 140
  • Trout Almondine at Savoury’s
  • Meatloaf at Charles Street Dinner House
  • Apple Pie at Sugar Pine Cafe

Local Beverages

  • Casto Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Butterfly Creek Chardonnay
  • Idle Hour Winery Zinfandel
  • Hard Cider from Indigeny Reserve
  • Craft Beer from Prospectors Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Mariposa County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mariposa County offers several accommodation options, from rustic cabins to lavish resorts.

  • The Majestic Yosemite Hotel - a historic landmark hotel with stunning views of Yosemite Valley.
  • Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel - a modern hotel with a seasonal pool and hot tub, and convenient location near downtown Mariposa.
  • Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort - a unique eco-resort with private cabins, hostel beds, and a health spa.
  • Mother Lode Lodge - a budget-friendly motel with clean rooms and friendly staff, located in the heart of Mariposa.

What to Buy in Mariposa County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mariposa County has many unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Some of the best items to buy include:

  • Gold nuggets and flakes from Gold Prospecting Adventures
  • Handmade pottery from Mariposa Clay Studio
  • Locally produced honey from Honey Run Apiaries
  • Artwork and crafts from Mariposa County Arts Council
  • Hand-crafted olive oil from Fiddler’s Green Farm

Local Culture and Customs of Mariposa County

Mariposa County is home to a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its historic landmarks, festivals, and traditions. The county’s Native American history dates back thousands of years, and the gold rush era of the 1800s left a lasting imprint on its landscape and communities. Today, Mariposa County celebrates its diverse cultures through events like the Mariposa Storytelling Festival, the Mariposa County Fair, and the Southern Sierra Fat Tire Festival. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, such as conserving water during droughts and preserving natural resources.

Best Time to Visit Mariposa County

The best time to visit Mariposa County depends on your interests and preferences.

  • Spring: Best time for wildflowers and waterfalls in Yosemite, but also the busiest season.
  • Summer: Best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming.
  • Fall: Best time for fall foliage and fewer crowds.
  • Winter: Best time for snow sports and fewer tourists, but some roads and trails may be closed due to weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mariposa County

Do:

  • Do stay on the trails while hiking in Yosemite or Sierra National Forest.
  • Do carry plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen when hiking or biking.
  • Do respect wildlife and keep a safe distance from bears, mountain lions, and other animals.
  • Do take a guided tour of Mariposa’s historic landmarks for a deeper understanding of its rich history.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash on the trails or in public spaces.
  • Don’t feed wildlife or approach animals in the wild.
  • Don’t use drones or other aerial devices in Yosemite National Park, as they are prohibited.
  • Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mariposa County

Mariposa County is generally a safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take precautions while traveling and hiking, such as:

  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid traveling alone at night.
  • Keep valuables in a safe place, and lock your car and hotel room doors.
  • Follow the park rules and regulations while visiting Yosemite National Park or Sierra National Forest.

Health in Mariposa County

Mariposa County is served by John C. Fremont Healthcare District, which operates a hospital and clinics in the area. Visitors should take necessary health precautions, such as:

  • Bring medication and supplies for any pre-existing conditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and altitude.
  • Use insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent tick-borne illnesses.

Getting to Mariposa County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mariposa County is located in Central California, about 140 miles from San Francisco and 50 miles from Fresno.

Airports Near Mariposa County

The nearest airports to Mariposa County are:

  • Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), about 70 miles away.
  • Merced Regional Airport (MCE), about 50 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Mariposa County

Greyhound operates a station in Merced, which connects to other major cities in California.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Mariposa County, or take a private shuttle or taxi service from the airports or cities.

How to Get Around in Mariposa County

A car is the most convenient way to get around Mariposa County, as there is limited public transportation in the area. However, visitors can also take a taxi, rent a bike or a scooter, or use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Mariposa County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mariposa County is within easy reach of several other attractions and destinations in California, such as:

  • Kings Canyon National Park
  • Sequoia National Park
  • San Francisco
  • Monterey and Carmel
  • Lake Tahoe

Conclusion

Mariposa County is a true gem of California, offering visitors a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and outdoor adventures. By following this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your trip and discover all that this stunning region has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, Mariposa County is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.



    El Portal
    Mariposa
    Yosemite West