SEASON 8 | EP 6
Kingsbury Grade and Sierra County
Traveling a pair of historic routes that once led to gold, but now lead to scenic adventures in the Sierras.
Where Gold Rush Roads Lead to High Sierra Adventure
Host Chris Orr explores two historic Sierra routes that once carried hopeful prospectors toward gold and now lead travelers into some of the region’s most scenic landscapes. The journey begins on Kingsbury Grade, a storied mountain road that played a key role during the Comstock era. Along the way, history unfolds through preserved landmarks and sweeping views before the route climbs toward the Tahoe community of Stateline.
At the top, the adventure continues into Van Sickle Bi-State Park, a rare park shared by both Nevada and California. Just steps from town, the park offers rugged terrain, quiet forest trails, and panoramic views that highlight the natural beauty both states work together to protect.
The episode then follows another historic passage, Henness Pass, into Sierra County. With the help of the Truckee Donner Land Trust, Chris explores the peaceful waters of Webber Lake, the wide-open spaces of Perazzo Meadows, and caps the journey with a hike to Mount Lola—the highest point in the county—where history, conservation, and high-country adventure come together.
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