Location

Sonora California is located in the heart of the famous "Mother Lode." The region is known for its colorful mining history, its great recreational opportunities, and to cavers, its caves! Even the local topo map says "cave country." What more could a caver ask?

Diablo Grotto decided that they wanted to host a "caving regional." That meant that the event had to take place in an area with plenty of caves. Well Sonora has them! Small caves, vertical caves, water caves, tight caves, pretty caves, marble caves, basalt caves. More caves than you could ever do in one weekend - the Mother Lode has it all.

Sonora is located at 1,825 feet in elevation, nestled in the rolling foothills of California's Sierra Nevada. It still maintains the feel of a gold rush town, with covered walkways, false storefronts, and several historic buildings. Recreational opportunities abound, with the area attracting hikers, kayakers, boating enthusiasts, climbers, rafters, bikers, and fishermen. The less physically inclined can peruse a multitude of antiques stores, museums, or Columbia State Historic Park. Yosemite National Park is less than 70 miles away.

Centrally located, Sonora is easily accessible to most individuals in the Western Region. It is just one hour off of I-5, the main north/south travel corridor in California. It is just 2 hours south of I-80, the main east/west route. Whether you are coming from near or far, you'll find your trip to Sonora worth it. After all, we have caves.

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