Explore El Dorado County
The Great Outdoors
Twin Bridges - Our Local River Spot (~10 minutes drive)
Located right off of Mount Aukum Road, the crystal clear waters of the Middle Fork of the Consumnes River serves as a refreshing and relaxing way to spend a day during the warm summer months. Put the below coordinates in your phone maps app to find the parking area, then walk across Mount Aukum road for river access.
Grab a 4-pack of cider and ask Aaron about day use tube rentals if your planning on heading down to the river.
Parking Coordinates: 38.624166, -120.700603
Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area
Swim, paddle, float, hike, or chill a perfect spot on a warm EDC day. Day use fees (1 vehicle) $16, $21 holiday rate. About 35 minutes away.
ASK AARON ABOUT DAILY USE KAYAK, PADDLE BOARD, AND TUBE RENTALS AS WELL AS REDUCED ENTRY PASS.
Note: pets are NOT permitted in the water and might be subject to extra park fees as this is also a local reservoir/water source.
The Golden History
Gold Bug Park and Mine- Placerville (about 35 minutes away)
Located in the heart of Placerville, Gold Bug Park was the site of the largest mine in the area during the Gold Rush. Today you can participate in gem panning for just $5 (one of Cameron’s favorite local activities!) and keep the beautiful rocks and gems you pan. You can also check out the old, still functioning blacksmith shop on site.
Marshall Gold Discovery Historic Park (about 50 minutes away)
Gold Panning Lessons and Tours available daily. Try your hand at gold panning at the place that started the historic California Gold Rush.
Gold Panning: Learn to pan for gold in the troughs for $3-$5, usually offered daily (weather permitting).
Sutter's Mill Replica: View a replica of the sawmill where James Marshall first discovered gold.
Gold Discovery Museum: Explore mining equipment, exhibits on local history, and Native American artifacts.
Guided Tours: 45-minute walking tours are offered, highlighting the history of Coloma and the discovery.
Hiking Trails: Family-friendly trails include the Marshall Monument trail and the riverside Monroe Ridge Trail.
