Walking Event:

Mon Sat, 5A-7P; Sun, 6A-6P. Closed NYD, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas. The route will go through both business & residential areas on sidewalks or paved roads. Here is your chance to visit a beautiful, historic town in the lovely Sierra Nevada foothills! It is said that Grass Valley was named by settlers whose cattle had wandered from their campsite on Greenhorn Creek to a grassy valley" nearby where grazing was better. In the Fall of 1849, two small groups of immigrants decided to linger in the grassy valley and they stayed to become the first settlers. This walk will take you through their early mining-era downtown and on out to the residential and countryside areas of this lovely mining and lumber-based community. In the 1860 s and 70 s, gold mines such as the North Star, WYOD, Pennsylvania, Empire and Grass Valley mines became known far and wide and drew miners from Ireland and Cornwall. These successful, high-production enterprises transformed the area into a boom town," and later economic events led to a bust." Lumber, farming and tourism kept this thriving town on the map, and today it is a highly sought-after, desirable retirement area. Your walk will also provide you with opportunities to stop and admire the many churches along the way, including The Emanuel Episcopal Church that dates back to the 1850 s, during the hey day" of this prosperous and well-preserved Victorian-era community. Grass Valley is currently home to over 18,000 folks, who enjoy living the quiet, serene life, with horse property, farms and ranches nearby. After your enjoyable walk past churches, historical sites and lovely restored homes throughout the area and in the countryside, you will find many local restaurants to satisfy your dining pleasures. We also recommend you consider touring local sites such as the historic Holbrooke Hotel on Mill St., or the Empire State Mine on Empire Street. Another tour to consider while in the area is a quick drive to the equally lovely historic mining town of Nevada City, just 3 miles up Highways 49/20.