Understand

Columbia, a founding town in Calaveras County, came to life during the Gold Rush. Its beginnings can be traced back to a mining party seeking respite from the rain. Little did they know that their decision to stay overnight would lead to the discovery of gold. This fortunate turn of events attracted thousands of miners looking to strike it rich. The town quickly grew prosperous, aided by an ambitious project that brought water from the Stanislaus River. Flumes and ditches were constructed to harness this precious resource for mining. Despite its initial success, the gold eventually ran out, causing the town to lose its population and stagnate. However, Columbia preserved its historic charm, remaining largely unchanged over the years. In the 1930s, efforts were made to protect and showcase this snapshot of a Gold Rush town. Eventually, the state of California acquired it in the 1940s, transforming Columbia into a remarkable State Historic Park, preserving its rich history for future generations to admire.

Get in

To experience the wonders of Columbia, the best way to reach this charming destination is by car. You can follow the scenic Gold Country Route 49 highway south from Calaveras County or take Route 108 from the Central Valley (Modesto) to Sonora. From Sonora, drive a few miles north on Highway 49, and you'll arrive at Columbia. For those seeking a quicker transportation option, private planes can fly into Columbia Airport. Unfortunately, there is no significant bus service connecting Columbia to other areas. So hop in your car or soar through the sky for an unforgettable journey!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing