First settled in 1849 as “Nevada” but not incorporated until 1856 and the word “city” added in 1864. Today the town features many period buildings including hotels and a brewery.

She thought the offer a fortune and hesitated…

Luzena Wilson was one of the town’s most famous residence. Her well documented life during the California Gold Rush provides a glimpse into life as woman during this time. Upon arriving in Sacramento a miner offered her $5 for her biscuits. She thought the offer a fortune and hesitated, the miner then doubled the offer.

She quickly realized her potential as an entrepreneur and upon moving to Nevada City she was serving 20 miners dinner the first night before her husband returned from mining. She created the El Dorado Hotel in Nevada City which later burned.

Nevada City and Grass Valley have become our standard launching pad for all expeditions of the Northern Mother Lode. We almost always sleep here and return to dine here as well after a long day of off roading and exploring.

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