Next top Must-Attend Events in mariposa, California for April and May 2019

Prospectors found a wealth of gold in the county during the mid to late 1800s. The California State Mining & Mineral Museum at the Mariposa Fairgrounds explains the history of gold mining in the region. Exhibits include the 13.8-pound Fricot crystalline gold nugget found in the American River. Explore the mine, see the equipment and learn about the time-consuming mining process.

See the majestic ancient trees found in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias located close to the Wawona & Fish Camp in Yosemite National Park. The forested area contains approximately 500 of the giants that are estimated as being more than 3,000 years old.

Learn how the first settlers lived by visiting the buildings at the Pioneer Yosemite History Museum near Wawona. The rooms within the facility feature exhibits about geology, Native Americans, local wildflowers and animal species.

Explore the county's history from the time of ancient Native Americans and Spanish missionaries to the miners and pioneers who settled the area at the Mariposa Museum and History Center. Learn about the Miwuk Americans, the contributions made by Chinese immigrants and the daily lives of the miners.

Take a trip through the Sierra Nevada Mountains aboard a historic steam-powered train from the Sugar Pine Railroad station. The one-hour excursion explains the logging and railroading days. A stop at the Thornberry Museum enables guests to see a historic logging camp and to grab refreshments in the gift shop.

Mariposa County was one of the first established in the east-central region of California during the Gold Rush. The destination lies along the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and contains part of Yellowstone National Park. As such, locals and visitors find a wealth of outdoor recreation options. The small communities within the county also offer unique attractions and activities.