California's 'Jewel Of The Sierra Nevada' Is A Mini-Lake Tahoe With Trails, Nearby Wineries, And Festivals

That western slope of the Sierra Nevada is something special, ain't it? It's home to the hidden trails of Yosemite Valley, the enchanting 1800s towns of the Gold Country, and the adventure-rich waters of the American River. What's more, you only need to drive around an hour or so across Route 50 to get to Lake Tahoe — a land of forest-topped islets, glimmering waters, and ski fields. And somewhere hidden in the middle of all that is a place they call the "Jewel of the Sierra Nevada."

Cue Georgetown, CA. It's only small: The total population count is something like 2,600 people. But therein lies the charm. Bijou Georgetown is the sort of place where everyone knows everyone and the community bands together. Perhaps more enticing for the traveler who's passing through, however, is the fact that it's the gateway to Stumpy Meadows — a lake that's been called one of the best swim spots in the Sierras — not to mention a hodgepodge of mountain wineries in the surrounding area. What's not to love?

Getting there is a joy in and of itself, by the way. Nestled perfectly midway between the Gold Country mainstays of Auburn and Placerville, Georgetown is around a 30-minute detour along winding country roads from either. Expect scenery aplenty as you cruise, including big granite rocks and sightings of the American River. The nearest major airport is down in Sacramento, just a touch over an hour's drive along Interstate 80.

Tahoe's amazing and all, but it can get infamously crowded in the peak seasons (that's both ski season and the summer in these parts). Thankfully, Georgetown might have the answer. Just over 16 miles to the east of its pint-sized town center lies a man-made lake that's said to be quintessential California highland stuff: Stumpy Meadows.

Here's a picture: Imagine 342 acres of pristine water hemmed in by great sweeps of evergreen forest where ponderosas and giant oaks and fragrant cedar trees all jostle for space. Here's another kicker: The whole thing is set in the boundaries of Eldorado National Forest, which itself has 400 miles of hiking paths, meaning the area around Stumpy Meadows campground offers the chance to explore scenic lakeside paths. It's worth noting that some land in the area is private property, so it's a good idea to check out the U.S. Forest Service website to view publicly accessible areas. 

There are designated day-use areas at Stumpy Meadows, along with a campground that has 40 separate pitches. If you've packed the tent and the gear, consider setting up for the night at one of the spots just a short walk from the lakeside, which will allow you to access secluded rock beaches on the water's edge. Federally managed camping here is generally open between April and October each year.

Like the perfectly preserved Gold Rush town of Auburn and pretty Sutter Creek before it, Georgetown oozes tales of an enthralling and bold period in American history. The first settlers came and set up shop in the 1840s, during the initial wave of migration following the discovery of the iconic precious metal in nearby Coloma.

Traces of that era are still visible. Step into the Georgetown Pioneer Cemetery, for example, to wander between the resting places of miners and their families from way back when. Meanwhile, in the heart of the town, you can drop into the American River Inn. It dates from the mid-1800s and was a private residence-turned boarding house during the California Gold Rush. Now, it's a charming bed and breakfast.

Other cultural highlights include the now annual Carlapalooza Festival, which draws in rocking bands and tribute acts alike for a summer shindig each June. And then there's the wine. The Gold Country as a whole is no stranger to a good vintage, and Georgetown is an excellent gateway to some notable wineries: Take the highly-rated Saluti Cellars in Somersat, for example. Here, guests are invited to taste award-winning labels and enjoy unique getaway packages. Horse riding and wine tasting combo, anyone?