North San Juan California Last Updated: 08/08/2024 | |
North San Juan is a small, unincorporated community in Nevada County, California. It's located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, about 20 miles northwest of Nevada City, the county seat. North San Juan is situated along State Route 49, which is a scenic route known for its historical significance during the California Gold Rush. The population was 225 at the 2020 census. | |
North San Juan has a rich history tied to the Gold Rush era. It was established during the 1850s when the area was bustling with gold mining activity. The town became one of the important centers for hydraulic mining, a method that was widely used in the region until it was banned due to its environmental impact. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and proximity to the South Yuba River, which offers recreational opportunities such as swimming, hiking, and gold panning. The nearby Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park preserves the largest hydraulic mining site in California and provides a glimpse into the region's mining history. |