If you ask residents what's so special about their community, they'll probably begin by telling you about the landscape - the charming, historic gold rush towns surrounded by rolling hills and towering green pines, the graceful oaks shading pastures in the lower elevations, the snow-covered Sierra peaks in the background.

  With an average elevation of 2,500 feet, the area enjoys a mild, four-season climate. Skies are generally a brilliant blue from May to October with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees during the daytime, cooling off to the 50's in the evenings.

  The rainy season, from November to April, is also mild. Daytime temperatures typically rise to the 40's and 50,s and nighttime temperatures drop into the 30,s. The average rainfall is 55 inches per year. While light snow may fall a few times per year, it rarely lasts very long.

  The offerings of the great outdoors are one of the best benefits of life in Nevada County. Sport enthusiasts, weekend warriors and occasional walkers all find plenty of options for exercise, family fun and outdoor relaxation.

  Even with all of its rural appeal, the community is not isolated. The California state capitol, Sacramento, is only an hour's drive away. World famous San Francisco is 150 miles to the west. To the east, the fun and excitement of Reno and Lake Tahoe are within easy driving distance.

  The community proudly boasts of two important state parks within the region - the Empire Mine State Park and the Malakoff Diggins State Park. These two sites provide very different views of gold mining history through their excellent interpretive programs. They also have many acres of trails for hiking, mountain biking or horse back riding.

  Much of the land along the Yuba River, which some might say represents the very heart of the county, is open for the public to enjoy. In the summer, children and adults splash in the river's many swimming holes, casually pan for gold among its boulders or relax at one of its sandy beaches.

  The Independence Trail, which runs along an old flume path off of Highway 49, is designed for the enjoyment of all, especially people with disabilities. This easy and accessible trail affords everyone beautiful views of the river, a waterfall, wildlife and general recreation.

  The Pioneer Trail along Highway 20 is maintained for horseback riding and is also used for mountain biking and hiking. Further up the highway, adventurers find many more places for cross country and downhill skiing, camping, fishing, backpacking and exploring in the majestic Sierras. Even the notso - adventurous can have a wonderful outdoor experience just driving the Yuba - Donner Scenic By - way.