Bi-weekly podcast
Exploring Tuolumne County
Learn about this region’s Gold Rush history, outdoor offerings, and artistic charm from three passionate locals
Bi-weekly podcast
Learn about this region’s Gold Rush history, outdoor offerings, and artistic charm from three passionate locals
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the wonders of Tuolumne County with insights from three area insiders.
First, Johnson chats with Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant shop in downtown Sonora that showcases more than 50 makers from Tuolumne County. Broxham describes her inviting boutique/eatery, and offers recommendations including the Cookies and Confluence, an Oreo-espresso milkshake. Broxham goes on to describe Sonora, a one-stoplight mountain town nestled among green rolling hills and steeped in history. Offering insider tips, she highlights must-see attractions, family-friendly activities, and dining and lodging options in the area.
Next up, Johnson explores Columbia State Historic Park with interpreter Caleb Masquelier. “If you walk into the park now, you're going to see the largest collection of Gold Rush–era buildings in the state of California,” Masquelier explains. The immersive state park experience features a historic stagecoach and staff who wear period-correct attire. Masquelier also discusses the park's educational programs, from captivating gold mining demonstrations to immersive historical tours.
Lastly, Johnson speaks with Elisabeth Barton, co-owner of Echo Adventure Cooperative, which offers socially and environmentally sustainable guided adventures in Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Barton highlights the county’s diverse terrain, from its lush valleys to towering peaks: “You go all the way from 1,000 feet of elevation to 10,000 and above.” She goes deep on Echo Adventure Cooperative’s bespoke outdoor experiences, including fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, snowshoeing, and more. Barton passionately discusses their dedication to accessibility through their adaptive tours, specifically designed for individuals seeking accessible activities and community building.
Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective
Caleb Masquelier, interpreter at Columbia State Historic Park
Elisabeth Barton, co-founder of Echo Adventure Cooperative
Madi Broxham is the co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant storefront and coffee shop in downtown Sonora selling goods from local makers and lifestyle brands.
Annual Mother Lode Round-Up Parade
Kennedy Meadows Resort & Packstation
Black Oak Casino Resort & RV Park
Sierra Bible Disc Golf Course & Walking Trail
Caleb Masquelier is an interpreter at Columbia State Historic Park, running the state park’s tours and educational programs.
Columbia City Hotel Restaurant
The Bella Union Restaurant & Parlor
Elisabeth Barton is the co-founder of Echo Adventure Cooperative, a tour operator in Groveland offering expert-guided experiences in Yosemite National Park and the surrounding area.
Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.
Host, Soterios Johnson
Editorial Director, John Godfrey
Producer, Kate Eplboim
Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall
Theme music, Aaron Taos
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In quiet towns west of Yosemite National Park, historic preservation mixes with modern appeal
Follow these hiking options to explore some of Yosemite National Park’s gorgeous 77-mile section of the PCT
Go on a wild ride through the heart of the High Sierra
The solitude-seekers' high-country escape
See the Toulumne County square that’s rich with Gold Rush history
Off-the-beaten path perfection north of Yosemite
Step into the 1850s with a visit to this Gold Country gem
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