The Basic Tour

($50 per hour of one or more people)

The basic, three to four hour tour takes you on the back roads of Amador County. You will see things that most tourists don’t see, as well as hear a lively commentary as we tour the historical sights around Jackson and Sutter Creek. Along the way, I will explain the early history of California, the Native American and Mexican presence in the Mother Lode, as well as point out the geology, flora and fauna of our area. Some of the things we may see and do, are:

• Relive the history of the Gold Rush as well as early mining in the region.
• View a few of the surviving mine head frames - there were 300 mines in this area in the late 1800's.
• Visit our local cemetery to hear a few stories of our early citizens.
• Visit the Kennedy Wheels.
• Walk down the historic streets of Jackson to hear the stories of some of the buildings see the old brick oven at Cafe Max. You'll also hear about the brawdy side of early Jackson.
• Drive "up-country" to see one or two original homestead ranches, stopping at Lake Tabeaud for an explanation of the extensive water ditch system that carried water to the mines, farms and towns many years ago.
• Pass through Pine Grove, stop at Indian Grinding Rock State Park, drop into the quaint town of Volcano, and then stop along Sutter Creek for a bit of Gold Panning, and fresh baked snacks.
• Swing through Sutter Creek, and if time permits, we'll stop by the Knight Foundry and Monte Verde Store - before returning to your accommodation

Historic Winery Tour

Tour select homestead ranches and wineries, and learn the history of the wineries you visit. This tour includes the same lively explanations as the Basic Tour, so , you will learn about the Gold Rush, mining, geology, history, flora, fauna as well as tasting wine from some of Amador County's oldest wineries.

Historic Tour and Inn Stay

Includes a half or full day tour, and lodging for one or two nights at the inn of your choice.

All Day Emigrant Trail Tour

Includes most of the Basic Tour, plus:

• Drive up to Carson Pass and along the way stop at several major historical sites related to the Mormon Emigrant Trail.
• Walk on the actual Emigrant Trail where thousands of pioneers crossed the Sierras during the early 1850's.
• Hear the story of Tragedy Springs and the real story of Kit Carson, Jedadiah Smith and John C. Fremont.
• See the wagon wheel-worn rocks and hike the short section of the steep and treacherous par ot the wagon trail call, "The Devil's Ladder.
• See the actual point where the pioneers crossed the Sierras and hear the story of Melissa Cory, an 18 year old bride who walked over 2,000 miles for her "honeymoon".
  
  

Gold Discovery Tour

• Tour the original gold discovery site near Placerville on the American River.
• Take an underground tour of the historic Gold Bug Mine in Old Hangtown.
• See a working model of a gold stamp mill as well as an authentic stamp mill.