Area Guide
Discover Groveland, explore Yosemite, and find the best local experiences
Groveland, California
A gateway to Yosemite National Park, the historic Gold Rush town of Groveland has drawn seekers for more than 170 years. This charming community sits at about 3,100 feet elevation in the rugged foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
Groveland and the surrounding area played key roles in the California Gold Rush and in the history of Yosemite and even the city of San Francisco, 145 miles away. Today, 19th-century storefronts along Main Street house eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries.
From our cabin, you're just 25 minutes from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park — making it the perfect base camp for your Sierra Nevada adventure.
Yosemite National Park
With over 800 miles of trails and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, Yosemite is right at your doorstep
Yosemite Valley
~45 min driveThe heart of the park featuring El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. Most visitors spend their time here.
Glacier Point
~1.5 hr driveThe most stunning panoramic viewpoint in the park. Open May through October.
Hetch Hetchy
~30 min driveA quieter alternative with spectacular hikes and fewer crowds.
Tuolumne Meadows
~1.5 hr driveHigh-country paradise with alpine meadows and granite peaks. Summer only.
Mariposa Grove
~2 hr driveHome to over 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant.
Big Oak Flat Entrance
~25 min driveThe nearest park entrance to our cabin, providing quick access to the park.
Things to Do
From Gold Rush history to world-class rafting, there's something for everyone in the Groveland area
Iron Door Saloon
California's oldest continuously operating saloon, built of solid granite in 1852. Famous for steaks, burgers, and live music. A must-visit Groveland landmark with iron doors imported from England.
Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
Journey through time with exhibits on Indigenous peoples, Gold Rush pioneers, and the development of Hetch Hetchy. Don't miss the massive 565-pound California Black Bear at the entrance.
Rainbow Pool
A stunning natural swimming hole fed by a waterfall in the Stanislaus National Forest, just 15 miles east of Groveland. The perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
Tuolumne River Rafting
The Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River — rated #1 rafting river in California. Several outfitters offer day and multi-day whitewater adventures through stunning canyon scenery.
Yosemite Cellars
A local winery producing small-batch wines including Grenache Rosé and Tannat from grapes grown at their 3,000-foot elevation estate vineyard. A unique tasting experience.
Pine Mountain Lake Golf
Rated 4½ stars by Golf Digest as a 'Best Place to Play.' An 18-hole course surrounded by stunning mountain views with year-round golfing. Head to The Grill afterward.
Hetch Hetchy Valley
One of Yosemite's most under-the-radar gems. Spectacular hikes like the trail to Wapama Falls, fewer tourists, and views you'll never forget. Accessed near Groveland.
Carlon Falls Trail
An easy 1.4-mile trail just 30 minutes from Groveland leading to a beautiful 30-foot waterfall on the South Fork of the Tuolumne River. Great for all skill levels.
Mountain Biking
The Ferretti Road trail network features bike-only trails with drops, log rides, jumps, berms, and rollers. Perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts of all levels.
Historic Groveland Hotel
A landmark since 1849 — originally a trading post, then a gambling house and saloon. Now a charming boutique hotel steps from the Iron Door. Even has a Tesla charging station.
Mountain Sage Nursery
Start your morning with house-made baked goods and organic coffees in a gorgeous garden setting. A unique and peaceful Groveland experience.
Old Groveland Jailhouse
A stone relic from the town's Wild West days. Once used to hold rowdy miners, the old jail has been lovingly transformed into a charming pocket garden.
Where to Eat
Local restaurants and cafes along Groveland's charming Main Street
Iron Door Saloon
American GrillCalifornia's oldest saloon. Famous for steaks and burgers.
Lucky Buck Cafe
Breakfast & LunchA popular local spot with hearty breakfast and lunch options.
Tangled Hearts Cafe & Bakery
Cafe & BakeryFresh baked goods and cozy cafe atmosphere.
Gateway Tapas & Spirits
Tapas & CocktailsFlavorful tapas and handcrafted cocktails at Hotel Charlotte.
Mountain Sage Nursery
Coffee & BakeryOrganic coffee and pastries in a beautiful garden setting.
The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake
AmericanCasual dining with mountain views after a round of golf.
Getting Here
By Air
Fly into San Francisco (SFO), Oakland (OAK), or Sacramento (SMF). Groveland is approximately 3 hours from SFO and 2.5 hours from Sacramento.
By Car
From San Francisco, take I-580 E to I-205 E, then CA-120 E through Oakdale and into the Sierra foothills. The scenic drive is about 145 miles.
To Yosemite
From our cabin, the Big Oak Flat entrance is just 25 minutes. Yosemite Valley floor is about 45 minutes to an hour away.
Your Yosemite Adventure Starts Here
Book our cabin in Groveland and explore all that the Sierra Nevada has to offer.
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