Tuolumne Heritage Trail Approved As New Name For Regional Project

Transportation council rebrands multi-use trail project connecting Jamestown, Sonora and Columbia.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:55pm

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A bold, graphic illustration of a bicycle icon repeated in a grid pattern, using bright neon colors to capture the vibrant energy of an active transportation project connecting local communities.The Tuolumne Heritage Trail will provide a new, dedicated path for cyclists and pedestrians to explore the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.Jamestown Today

The Tuolumne County Transportation Council has approved a new name for the regional multi-use trail project previously known as the Gold Rush Path, rebranding it as the Tuolumne Heritage Trail. The Tuolumne Heritage Trail is a regional active transportation project aimed at connecting the communities of Jamestown, Sonora, and Columbia through a continuous corridor for walking and bicycling.

Why it matters

The new trail will provide a separated facility for non-motorized travel, addressing long-standing gaps in safe active transportation connections in the region. The updated name is expected to provide a consistent identity across project documents, public outreach, and partner coordination.

The details

Planned as a phased Class I multi-use trail, the project is designed to improve safety and expand mobility options for residents and visitors traveling between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and local businesses. Much of the current route relies on Highway 49 and nearby roadways, which were built primarily for motor vehicle use and offer limited space for pedestrians and cyclists.

  • The Tuolumne County Transportation Council approved the new name in April 2026.

The players

Tuolumne County Transportation Council

The regional transportation planning agency that approved the new name for the trail project.

Tamera Blankenship

The executive director of the Tuolumne County Transportation Council.

City of Sonora

One of the partner agencies developing the Tuolumne Heritage Trail project.

Tuolumne County

One of the partner agencies developing the Tuolumne Heritage Trail project.

Caltrans District 10

One of the partner agencies developing the Tuolumne Heritage Trail project.

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What they’re saying

“The name Tuolumne Heritage Trail reflects both where we are and who we are. Including Tuolumne in the name reflects our local pride and sense of place, while the word heritage invites people to explore the rich cultural history and extraordinary natural environment that define this region.”

— Tamera Blankenship, Executive Director, Tuolumne County Transportation Council

What’s next

Construction on the Tuolumne Heritage Trail will take place in phases as funding becomes available.

The takeaway

The rebranding of the regional trail project as the Tuolumne Heritage Trail reflects a commitment to celebrating the local history, culture, and natural environment of the communities it will connect, while also providing a safer and more accessible active transportation option for residents and visitors.