Created for Visit Tuolumne County
There’s nothing more fun and relaxing than ditching your responsibilities for a girls’ getaway. Whether it’s a weekend or a whole week, the ultimate girls’ trip has a few requirements. A group of your best friends is key—but picking the right destination is no less important.
With three main regions—Yosemite, Gold Country and the High Sierra—Tuolumne County in northern California offers everything you need for a bestie vacation: a mix of active and laid-back activities everyone will enjoy, jaw-dropping scenery, and accommodations that are great for groups.
Here are five can’t-miss excursions for the ultimate girls’ trip itinerary in Tuolumne County.
La dolce vita—Tuolumne style
An afternoon sipping Nebbiolo and Montepulciano wines while enjoying soft breezes and vineyard views? You don’t have to venture all the way to Italy to inject some dolce vita into your vacation. Nestled in the rolling foothills of the High Sierra, Gianelli Vineyards is an award-winning Italian-style winery, minutes from Jamestown’s historic downtown. Sample your way through their extensive list with an alfresco tasting at Gianelli’s picturesque outdoor tasting area, or settle in for an afternoon of cozy sips in the indoor tasting room.
Bond with nature
© Yosemite National Park/Visit Tuolumne CountySpending time in the gorgeous great outdoors not only increases happiness but it can deepen social bonds, research shows. In other words, spending a day in Yosemite National Park is one way to ensure you reap all the friendship-boosting benefits of a girls’ getaway.
But that’s just one reason why a day in Yosemite checks all the boxes. Known for its spectacular waterfalls and offering more than 1,200 kilometres of hiking trails, from gentle walks to the more challenging Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias trail and others, Yosemite promises a day of fresh air and exercise your group will never forget.
Historic, laid-back digs
© Lazy Z Resort/Emily TaylorAccommodations fit for a group, with unique ambience and amenities that will enhance your stay, are an absolute must for a great girls’ getaway. Lazy Z Resort is just the place. This true mountain retreat is based in Twain Harte and offers a range of picturesque cabins and cottages with room for up to 12 guests—it’s the perfect base.
Spa Day
Of course, no girls’ getaway is complete without a day of decadent pampering. Located in charming downtown Sonora, Amala Detox and Tea Lounge is just the place. Start your group relaxation sesh with a detoxifying foot treatment: an organic sugar scrub and 30-minute foot soak followed by a reading of your waters at the end. The hotel offers a wide range of dining options, from international favourites to the most delectable German cuisine. The breakfast buffet served a plethora of German Käse (Cheese), ham and bread in addition to an array of smoked and cured fish. I was spoilt for choice.
Snow Day
© Leland High Sierra Snowplay/Visit Tuolumne CountyJust because you left the kids at home doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some old-fashioned fun in the snow. Open from the first snowfall through to mid-April, Leland High Sierra Snowplay is a wintry playground even adults will love. Share laughs and thrills while tubing over 12 acres of terrain, the largest snow fun park on the U.S. West Coast.
Calling all photography enthusiasts, here are the 5 most Instagrammable spots in Tuolumne:
Pinecrest Lake, Tuolumne County
This 300-acre lake offers picturesque views of the Sierra peaks and lush forests along the shores.
Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park
Capture bucolic meadows against a dramatic High Sierra backdrop.
Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
Known as the “movie railroad,” Railtown has appeared in countless TV shows and movies.
Rim of the World
With great wide vistas, this spot along Highway 120 lives up to its name.
Don Pedro Lake Vista Point
One of the largest reservoirs in California, visit for beautiful sunset views.
