Visitors Connect With Nature And California History Year-Round In Mariposa County (NAPSA)—To get away from it all and take a step back in time, Mariposa County, home to Yosemite National Park, offers visitors some of the world’s most scenic landscapes and is brimming with history and culture. “Mariposa County is known as a gateway to Yosemite, yet tucked away like buried gold are historic towns and outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered,” said Susan Crain, Mariposa County Visitors Bureau. Mariposa County’s agri-nature tourism program allowsvisitors to get their hands dirty with one-ofa-kind experiences at agricultural and nature destinations. Explore a variety of family farms, including the Country Kitchen Herb Garden where tours include tales of herb folklore. At boutique wineries, taste wine and learn first-hand from the winemakers about viticulture. “Families, couples and solo travelers alike will find a fulfilling experience in Mariposa County, whether they’d like to camp, ski, whitewater raft, museum hop, shop or explore our agri-nature tourism program,” said Crain. Mariposa County is comprised of four geographic areas, each with its own offerings. North Northern Mariposa County is home to the small community of Coulterville—a California State Historical site. Hotel Jeffrey, built in 1854, is still a functioning hotel and has hosted President Theodore Roosevelt and John Muir. Coulterville is also home to the Northern Mariposa County History Center, which features exhibits on the Gold Rush. For exploring the outdoors, Lake McClure and Lake McSwain offer water sports, fishing, picnicking and more. East Eastern Mariposa County features one of the world’s most beau- Someof the world’s most scenic landscapes can be found in Mariposa County, California. tiful natural wonders, Yosemite National Park. The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias impresses visitors with someof the oldest and largest living trees in the world. South Those venturing into the county’s southern end find the town of Mariposa. History buffs will enjoy the Mariposa County Courthouse— the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi River, built in 1854—and the California State Mining and Mineral Museum. The Mariposa Museum and History Center offers a portrait of people and life in Mariposa County from the Indian and Spanish periods to California’s Gold Rush. Downtown Mariposa offers quaint restaurants and great antiquing. West The Western portions of the county encompass the generational cattle ranches of Catheys Valley. Stop at the McKay Park to see the original one room schoolhouse and the blacksmith shop from the 1800s. Visit the town of Hornitos, almost a ghost town, where bicycling and birding are the featured activities. For more information about Mariposa County, visit www. homeofyosemite.com or call toll free 1-866-425-3366.
