Exploring Tuolumne County

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the wonders of Tuolumne County with insights from three area insiders.

First, Johnson chats with Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant shop in downtown Sonora that showcases more than 50 makers from Tuolumne County. Broxham describes her inviting boutique/eatery, and offers recommendations including the Cookies and Confluence, an Oreo-espresso milkshake. Broxham goes on to describe Sonora, a one-stoplight mountain town nestled among green rolling hills and steeped in history. Offering insider tips, she highlights must-see attractions, family-friendly activities, and dining and lodging options in the area.

Next up, Johnson explores Columbia State Historic Park with interpreter Caleb Masquelier. “If you walk into the park now, you're going to see the largest collection of Gold Rush–era buildings in the state of California,” Masquelier explains. The immersive state park experience features a historic stagecoach and staff who wear period-correct attire. Masquelier also discusses the park's educational programs, from captivating gold mining demonstrations to immersive historical tours.

Lastly, Johnson speaks with Elisabeth Barton, co-owner of Echo Adventure Cooperative, which offers socially and environmentally sustainable guided adventures in Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Barton highlights the county’s diverse terrain, from its lush valleys to towering peaks: “You go all the way from 1,000 feet of elevation to 10,000 and above.” She goes deep on Echo Adventure Cooperative’s bespoke outdoor experiences, including fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, snowshoeing, and more. Barton passionately discusses their dedication to accessibility through their adaptive tours, specifically designed for individuals seeking accessible activities and community building.

GUESTS

Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective

Caleb Masquelier, interpreter at Columbia State Historic Park

Elisabeth Barton, co-founder of Echo Adventure Cooperative

RESOURCES

Madi Broxham is the co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant storefront and coffee shop in downtown Sonora selling goods from local makers and lifestyle brands.

Local Collective

Downtown Sonora

Sonora

Tuolumne County

Dusty’s Bees Organic Honey

Art for the Rescues

Mustard Seed Faith Co.

Annual Mother Lode Round-Up Parade

Revive Coffee

Twain Harte

Tuolumne County

Pinecrest

Columbia State Historic Park

Pinecrest Lake

Kennedy Meadows Resort & Packstation

Emberz Woodfired Foodz

Escondite De La Torre

The Armory

The Standard Pour

Black Oak Casino Resort & RV Park

The Independent Wine Company

The Branch

The Sonora Inn

Hotel Lumberjack

Sierra Bible Disc Golf Course & Walking Trail

Sugar Pine Ridge

Cover’s Apple Ranch

Caleb Masquelier is an interpreter at Columbia State Historic Park, running the state park’s tours and educational programs.

Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia City Hotel Restaurant

El Jardín Mexican Restaurant

Columbia Kate’s Teahouse

The Bella Union Restaurant & Parlor

St. Charles Saloon

Elisabeth Barton is the co-founder of Echo Adventure Cooperative, a tour operator in Groveland offering expert-guided experiences in Yosemite National Park and the surrounding area.

Echo Adventure Cooperative

Groveland

Stanislaus National Forest

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley

Pohono Trail

Sierra Mac River Trips

Zephyr Whitewater Expeditions

Tuolumne Meadows

Soda Springs Trail

Pothole Dome

Mono Lake

Pacific Crest Trail

Yosemite Basecamp

Evergreen Lodge

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson

Editorial Director, John Godfrey

Producer, Kate Eplboim

Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall

Theme music, Aaron Taos