Tuolumne County, California
Tuolumne County is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of central California. Sonora is the county seat and is known for its historic Gold Rush-era downtown. The county attracts both retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.
Part of Yosemite National Park lies within Tuolumne County, making it a major attraction for visitors. Columbia State Historic Park offers another glimpse into the region’s Gold Rush past, where visitors can experience historic buildings and even try gold panning.
Dodge Ridge is a popular local destination for skiing and winter recreation. Outdoor opportunities are abundant throughout the county, from exploring Stanislaus National Forest to fishing and relaxing at Pinecrest Lake.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Tuolumne County |
| County Seat | Sonora |
| Population | Approximately 55,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Sonora, Twain Harte, Jamestown, Groveland, Columbia |
| Interstates and Highways | State Route 108, State Route 49 |
| FIPS Code | 06-109 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 2,274 square miles (Land: 2,274 sq mi, Water: 0 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Alpine County (North), Calaveras County (Northwest), Stanislaus County (Southwest), Mariposa County (South), Madera County (Southeast), Mono County (East), Merced County (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Standard Time (PST) |
| State | California |
| Coordinates | 38.0354° N, 119.2904° W |
| Etymology | Named after “Many Stone Houses,” “The Land of Mountain Lions,” and “Straight Up Steep,” with origins attributed to Native American languages. |
| Major Landmarks | Yosemite National Park (partially), Stanislaus National Forest, Columbia State Historic Park |
PHYSICAL MAP
Tuolumne County Topographic Map
This topographic map highlights Tuolumne County’s Sierra Nevada landscape, with deep river canyons, rugged foothills, and high-country terrain. The elevation changes become more dramatic toward the eastern part of the county, including the mountainous areas of Yosemite National Park.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Tuolumne County Satellite Map
This satellite map reveals the distinctive granite landscapes of Yosemite, surrounded by extensive forests. The terrain rises from the forested western slopes toward the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada crest in the east.
OUTLINE MAP
Tuolumne County Blank Map
This blank map outlines Tuolumne County’s elongated shape in the central Sierra Nevada. The eastern portion extends into Yosemite National Park and includes rugged high-country and wilderness areas.
California County Maps
California County Map
Ever wonder how California’s 58 counties are organized? Our California county map lays them all out, from the Pacific Coast to the vast desert regions. Explore the map to find the counties you know—and perhaps discover a few you don’t.