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Moaning Caverns (Parrotts Ferry Rd., Vallecito) –
Moaning Caverns are so named because the sounds coming out of the cave
entrance sounded like moans, and the name stuck. On the 45 min. tour, you
descend on steep stairs through a narrow crevice, then down a 100 foot spiral
staircase. At the bottom, find yourself in an amazing high chamber,
taller than the Statue of Liberty. The cavern is lined with dripping stalactites
and stalagmites, including the dramatic "chocolate waterfall." |
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Tip: This cave walking tour isn't suited to toddlers or
infants. It's a schlep up and down the stairs (165ft.) and no baby backpacks
are allowed. |
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Gem mining will be a big hit with everyone in your
family. Buy a bag of "dirt" and sift the contents in flowing water
to find moonstone, topaz, amethyst, raspberry quartz, citrine and garnets.
There are shaded picnic tables, climbing wall and ziplines too. |
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Murphys – Murphys, founded by the Murphy brothers,
Dan and John, started out as a tent camp. The gold camp was a pretty wild
place in the 1850's, but now it's a pretty peaceful spot. The Murphys Hotel
has been in operation since 1860. |
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 Murphys
Community Park – Want to just take it easy? Head over the to the
Murphys Community Park, a shady area situated on a sparkling Sierra stream.
While parents relax in the shade, or get a picnic ready, kids can wade in the creek or bring your gold pan to pan for gold. Playground and swings for little ones too. |
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Mercer
Caverns (Sheep Ranch Rd.) – Go on a walking tour through the glories
of Mercer Caverns, formations in all shapes and sizes. Each of the seven
rooms has its own charm, especially the Gothic Chamber, and Angel's Wings
(looks like a stone curtain) in the Cathedral Room. The tour takes about
45 min. and you can bring kids under 5, but the stairs are pretty narrow
to carry a toddler. |
