Murphys Travel Guide

Murphys California is a fascinating gold rush town that has still retained a lot of its old-fashioned charm, making it feel almost like stepping back in time to the gold rush era.

Things to Do in Murphys

Murphys California is home to a charming Main Street which is filled with quirky boutiques, antique stores, and wineries. There are more than a dozen wine tasting rooms scattered along this main promenade, offering something for every palette. Venturing farther afield, it is possible to take a daytrip from Murphys to the spots where the wines were actually created and bottled by visiting one of the many vineyards in the area. The Vineyards of Angels Camp and Mokelumne Hill are local favorites worth stopping by.

Best Time to Visit Murphys

Murphys enjoys a Mediterranean California climate and a visit here can be enjoyed all year round.

A Local's Guide to Murphys Vacation Rentals

Nestled in the Sierra foothills, the California town of Murphys is perfectly situated between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, providing the prime spot to explore both famous sites. The town is rich in Gold Rush history, and although small, is bustling with a thriving art and theater district, as well as a huge range of Murphys vacation rentals.

Although the town has many modern amenities, when you arrive you may feel like you have stepped back in time, as it has managed to maintain much of its old-time charm. Many buildings from the Gold Rush era still remain standing and are still in use, such as Murphys Historic Hotel and Lodge.

Murphys is quickly becoming a mecca for those with a passion for wine, and although it is still growing, it already has a vibrant wine industry. There are over two dozen wineries in town that welcome visitors through their doors to sample some of their finest grapes or take a tour.

For those that have a vacation rental near Main Street, you will be in the center of it all. Many of the wineries are located here, as well as a huge range of shops. From family-owned boutiques to some bigger stores, this is the place to bag some local souvenirs.

Due to its slight elevation on the slopes, the weather is pleasant and mild in Murphy's all year round. It is these mountainous surroundings that make it a popular spot for visitors seeking outdoor recreational activities. In the winter, the town transforms into a skiing hub, as people come to enjoy the world-class skiing facilities that can be found at Bear Valley, which is only an hour away. You can try your hand at both downhill and cross-country skiing, as well as snowmobiling and snowplay.

People also come from miles around to enjoy the golfing facilities on offer. There are several courses to choose from in the surrounding area, and the Forest Meadows Golf Course is located right near the town center.

Nearby is the Stanislaus National Forest, which provides a wealth of recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, lake fishing, and much more. Another area that is well worth a visit is the Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Prepared to be amazed as you witness the size of the towering sequoia trees, and simply enjoy spending time in a wonderful outdoor space that is only a short drive from your Murphys vacation home.

Visitors to the town have ample opportunities to hit the water. Lake New Melones is a great destination for boating and jet skiing, or if you are feeling a little more adventurous go at whitewater rafting on the North Fork Stanislaus River.