Recreation

From just above sea level, to just below 10,000 feet, Amador County’s elevation variances open the door to more adventures than you could shake a stick at. It’s a shame the settlers were so focused on panning and mining, or they might have had more fun.

Be careful not to let the quiet appearance of the Amador communities mislead you. For those communities represent the calm before the storm, places of rest and recovery from the outdoor experiences awaiting you.

If links are on your mind, dust off your foot wedge. The rolling hills are sure to challenge your "lies." If water wets your appetite, the Mokelumne river is a whitewater paradise. If you would like to see middle earth, mine tours can take you deep into the wet and dark doldrums of old mining shafts. If you have a penchant for claustrophobic and dark settings, then spelunking (cave exploring) is sure to challenge your senses. For high-country exploration, Salt Springs reservoir offers a variety of outdoor experiences from camping and hiking, to biking and rock climbing. Kirkwood, rated as one of Amercia’s best ski resorts, represents the highest of Amador’s elevation at nearly 10,000 feet.

Just a simple drive along Highway 88 from the lowlands to the highlands is breathtaking.