Tuolumne County is located in the Sierra Nevada region of California, USA. Established in 1850, the county is named for the Southern Sierra Miwok word "talmalamne" which means "cluster of stone wigwams." The county seat and largest city in the area is Sonora.
Covering an area of approximately 2,274 square miles, Tuolumne County is known for its stunning natural landscapes, featuring Yosemite National Park, Stanislaus National Forest, and New Melones Lake. The county's geography is diverse with forests, rivers, lakes, and mountains providing ample recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing.
As of the 2020 census, the county had a population of around 53,924. The region's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, forestry, and small businesses with notable industry in healthcare, education, and government.
Tuolumne County is rich in Gold Rush history with several preserved historic sites, gold panning adventures, and ghost towns. The county is the setting for many western films and hosts the yearly Mother Lode Fair in Sonora, an event that showcases the history of Gold Rush towns.
The county boasts a cultural scene with events including art shows, festivals, and theater performances at venues such as the Sierra Repertory Theatre. There are also several vineyards and wineries in the area that add to its tourism appeal.
