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North America United States Arnold, California Do & See Mercer Caverns

Overview

Mercer Caverns

The guide was updated: 2024-11-04

A magnificent part of California's natural history since its discovery in 1885, Mercer Caverns is home to a wealthy variety of natural cave formations. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the caverns and view a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, columns, flowstone, helictites, and soda straws. Gaze upon delicate aragonite crystal formations at one of the cavern's deepest points, for which Mercer Caverns won a Grand Prize at the 1900 Paris World Exposition.

Useful Information

Address: 1665 Sheep Ranch Road, Murphys, CA
Phone: +1 209 728 2101
Email: info@mercercaverns.net

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Ebbetts Pass

Ebbetts Pass

Ebbetts Pass is a National Scenic Byway that covers 61 miles of Highways 4 and 89. Enjoy spectacular views as you drive along the Sierra Nevada mountains. Be sure to pack your camera as sightings of bald eagles are not unheard of, in addition to volcanic peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, verdant meadows, and more.

Sierra Nevada Logging Museum

Sierra Nevada Logging Museum

You can experience the history of the logging industry in the Sierra Nevada as it evolved from its inception in the 1800s. Its history extends to before the discovery of gold until present day, allowing for a wealth of knowledge. Become versed in the local cultural, environmental, and even economic impact of the logging communities nestled along the Sierra Nevada, a region alive with history.

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Calaveras Big Trees State Park

Giant sequoia trees and mixed conifer forests draw countless nature enthusiasts each year. Calaveras has been a State Park since 1931, when it became apparent that the beautiful North Grove needed preserving. The Grove features the wondrous 'Discovery Tree,' also known as the 'Big Stump,' which was the first Sierra redwood noted by Augustus T. Dowd in 1852. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays.

Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislaus National Forest

Stanislas National Forest, located fewer than two miles from Arnold, is nature at its most pristine. Camping, fishing, and traveling along the Stanislaus River are quite popular. People also take to hiking and horseback riding as additional activities.

Wineries

Wineries

There are several wineries in Calaveras County and in Northern California, many of them located just off of the scenic State Highway 4. Wine tasting tours are available. Excitation awaits your palate at the Foothills, where wine is always in season.

Angel's Camp City Museum

Angel's Camp City Museum

What better place to learn about the gold mining history of the City of Angels Camp than on the site of the Angels Mine? The museum is located on a 3-acre site and dedicates collections of gold country history spanning Angels Camp and the Mother Lode region. Discover wagons, carriages, indoor and outdoor exhibits, as well as ranching and artisan exhibits.

Bear Valley Resort

Bear Valley Resort

Bear Valley Mountain and Village is a family-friendly skiing and snowboarding resort community located off of Scenic Highway 4. The sports and lodging hotspot is enveloped by both the Sierra Nevada mountain range and two of California's largest federally designated wilderness areas. Take advantage of 1,680 acres of ski and board terrain, over 70 trails, 2 terrain and parks. Other activities include hiking, fishing, cycling, rock climbing, kayaking, camping, and more.

California Cavern

California Cavern

Originally named Mammoth Cave, California Cavern has been a popular attraction in Calaveras County since 1850. They specialize in 1-hour walking tours and caving expeditions through California's longest cave system. Tours are milder than the expeditions, which vary in difficulty and length.

Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia State Historic Park

Take a trip back in time to California's Gold Rush era with a half hour drive from Arnold to Columbia, where the business district has been preserved. Travel back in time to the 1850s, where miners jostled with entrepreneurs and town residents. Ride a 100 year-old stagecoach, pan for gold, and explore the working businesses of Columbia, California.

Goldrush Originals

Goldrush Originals

Find out why Americans made the westward trek to California when you learn to pan for gold yourself. You and your group will be supplied with all the tools you'll need to pan, you will also be taught the ancient method. Prospecting is certainly an adventure to be shared among the masses.

White Pines Lake & Park

White Pines Lake & Park

White Pines Park and Lake, adjacent to the town of Arnold on scenic Ebbetts Pass, provide families with a multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake itself is quite the hidden gem: plan a picnic by the lakeside for a lazy Sunday. For those seeking an active weekend, take to White Pines Community Park for BBQs, paths, a playground, a group area, a beach, and a softball field.

Arnold Rim Trail

Arnold Rim Trail

Hike, mountain bike or ride horseback through the Sierra Nevada Mountains utilizing this trail system that continues to grow to connect the communities along Ebbetts Pass. Discover the stunning vistas and panoramic views of Mt. Diablo in the East Bay Area, to snowy Mt. Lyell on the eastern slopes of the Sierras near Yosemite. Descend into canyons of streams and enjoy the shade of cedar, pine, fir, and oak forests.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Rides on steam locomotives are available on the weekends, as well as guided and self-guided tours, which will help you explore the shops and roundhouse. They have been in continuous operation since 1897. Come and explore the home of the 'Movie Star Locomotive' Sierra No. 3.

Mercer Caverns

Mercer Caverns

A magnificent part of California's natural history since its discovery in 1885, Mercer Caverns is home to a wealthy variety of natural cave formations. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the caverns and view a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, columns, flowstone, helictites, and soda straws. Gaze upon delicate aragonite crystal formations at one of the cavern's deepest points, for which Mercer Caverns won a Grand Prize at the 1900 Paris World Exposition.

Moaning Cavern Adventure Park

Moaning Cavern Adventure Park

Take a guided tour of Moaning Cavern or get a rush from the rope rappel or caving adventures. Zip lines, climbing and searching for gold and gemstones are other activities offered. Embark on an underground walking tour, or race to the top of a 32-foot tall custom climbing tower with 10 routes and an automatic belay system.

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