Tuolumne County

Tuolumne County is a county in the Sierra Nevada region of California, United States, covering 5,890 square kilometers (2,274 square miles). The area ranges from low foothills to high mountain peaks and includes forested areas, rivers, and sections of Yosemite National Park.

The county was founded in 1850 as one of the first 27 counties in California, shortly after the Gold Rush began. The region changed from a territory of indigenous people to a mining and logging area.

The name comes from the language of the indigenous people and refers to stone houses or mountain lions. Many places and waterways today carry names that reflect this early settlement.

Public transport connects the larger towns and some recreation areas, especially during summer. Visitors who want to reach remote places or trailheads should use their own vehicle.

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne lies within the county and reaches a depth of 1,370 meters (4,500 feet). This gorge attracts fewer visitors than the better known parts of Yosemite but offers equally deep views.

Location: California

Inception: 1850

Capital city: Sonora

Shares border with: Alpine County, Calaveras County, Stanislaus County, Mariposa County, Madera County, Mono County, Merced County

Website: https://tuolumnecounty.ca.gov

GPS coordinates: 38.02000,-119.94000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:34