When you live in (or near) Nevada County, it’s easy to fall into the river-day routine—and while there’s nothing wrong with a good float, sometimes you need a little adventure without the wet socks. So here it is: a full-day itinerary through some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of Nevada County without dipping a toe in the river. Scenic drives, historic gems, great food, and a golden-hour dinner in downtown Nevada City? Yes, please.
Morning: Canyon Views & Coffee Vibes in North San Juan
Start your day where the trees are tall and the cell signal is…well, let’s call it peaceful. Head up to North San Juan and grab breakfast or a hearty snack at The Ridge Café—a local favorite with strong coffee and satisfying plates (pro tip: the breakfast burrito travels well if you’re hitting a trail).
Then, head over to Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park. Walk the Diggins Loop Trail to take in the massive canyon walls carved by hydraulic mining. You’ll get forest serenity and Gold Rush history all in one go. It’s quiet, expansive, and just rustic enough to make you feel like you’re off-grid (in the best way).
Midday: Forest Drives & Local Finds in Grass Valley
After your Malakoff hike, drive down through the trees into downtown Grass Valley—one of the best-kept (and best-dressed) secrets in the county.
Start with a pit stop at Caroline’s Coffee for an espresso or blended mocha freeze. Most well known for their in-house coffee roasting and genuine Italian espresso machine, nothing says “coffeehouse” like Caroline’s. It’s cozy, family-owned, and if you love coffee like I do, these guys know their stuff.
Plus, if you need a snack, check out their pastries and grab and go items – all made fresh daily!
Now, it’s time to shop your way down Mill Street.
Some must-stop shops include:
The Book Seller
An indie bookstore where the staff will help you find your next binge book. Don’t forget to check out the downstairs area!
Tribal Weaver
Remember that cool hippie girl in highschool that always smelled like incense and made tie-dye look designer? Ya, she definitely shopped here. Think colorful textiles, handmade goods, and artisan magic.
Goodtimes Boardstore
Searching for your skaterboi or need some tips on how to kickflip? More than just the local skate shop, Goodtimes is great for cool gifts, Van’s clothing and shoes, local stickers and you guessed it, skateboards.
Afternoon: Scenic Stops Before Supper
Instead of heading river-bound, take a small detour to Empire Mine State Historic Park. It’s beautiful, shady, and steeped in history. The stonework, gardens, and blacksmith demos are worth a wander. Bonus: it’s super photogenic.
From there, wind your way toward Nevada City via Highway 49, stopping at Sugarloaf Mountain for a quick look-out over the town. It’s not a long hike, but the view makes it feel like you earned that dinner reservation.
Evening: Downtown Nevada City for Dinner & a Nightcap
Now that the golden light is settling in, stroll into downtown Nevada City and take your pick of dreamy dinner spots:
Sushi in the Raw
Classic style sushi in the heart of downtown
Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.
Wood-fired pizza and house-brewed beer in a relaxed, rustic setting.
Brewhaus
Family and dog friendly dining with german style cuisine and brews
Cap off the evening with a cocktail at Golden Era Lounge, where the ambiance leans speakeasy-meets-Gold-Rush and the drinks are consistently on point.
And just like that, you’ve done a full Nevada County day trip—without even setting foot in the river. You got the history, the hikes, the caffeine, the shopping, the food, and the skyline.
Want to keep discovering hidden gems and easy day trips around Nevada County?
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