Welcome to the Mother Lode

Mountains, lakes, historic towns. The Mother Lode is rich with places to explore.

That’s why The Union Democrat is pleased to offer Explore the Mother Lode, an insider’s guide to the area’s expansive offerings — where to go in Yosemite, not-to-be-missed locations in Gold Rush towns, festivals galore. The list also includes high-country adventures in the Sierra Nevada, watersports, boating and fishing on our many lakes and excursions on our rivers. In all, there are 101 tips for getting the most out of your vacation.

Tourism brings more than $240 million a year to the area and grows bigger every year. The word is out about the Mother Lode as a destination beyond Yosemite National Park, where more than 4 million people visit each year.

There is something for everyone here, from hunting for antiques in our historic downtowns to wine tastings at area vineyards. The Union Democrat staff endeavored to give visitors a comprehensive compilation of things we love to do and where we love to do them.

This publication is also available on our website, www.uniondemocrat.com.