Penn Valley

Penn Valley History

First settled in the 1800’s and located right outside of the historic Gold Rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City, Penn Valley thrived on mining, trading and farming. Today, it still provides the small town feel with its beautiful mountainous scenery and quaint homes. The town also holds some of its own significant landmarks and areas that were related to the California Gold Rush.

Penn Valley Landmarks

Some notable places to explore are Bridgeport and the town of Rough and Ready. The Bridgeport Covered Bridge is a historic landmark that was built in 1862 as part of a toll road which served traffic to and from Virginia City and the Comstock Load. It is one of the country’s longest single-span bridges and is over 230 feet long. There are several gorgeous spots on the river in this area that are great for swimming and soaking up some sun. Rough and Ready is a historic gold mining town where one report describes a miner discovering a gold nugget that weighed 18 pounds. Hundreds of men fled to this area to work the flats and ravines looking for more gold.

Penn Valley Recreation

Penn Valley has a few of its own hidden gems in regards to restaurants and coffee shops. Daybreak Cafe and Caleb’s Creamery are perfect morning stops for breakfast and coffee. Blue Cow Deli is a local favorite lunch spot with incredible sandwiches and paninis, salads, and their heavenly Blue Cow Deli Dream Bars. One of our personal favorites for dinner (but also great brunch and lunch) is Twelve 28 Kitchen. It was opened by Zach Sterner who worked as sous chef at Michelin starred Solbar at Solage, Calistoga. Twelve 28 Kitchen is the perfect spot for a special date night or just one of those nights when you’re craving incredible food.

Penn Valley Real Estate

The houses in Penn Valley range from stunning ranch style to simple and sweet starter homes. Nearby is the beautiful Western Gateway Park which has trails for walking and bike riding, and is great for kids and adults alike. Penn Valley also hosts its annual Penn Valley Rodeo, as well as concerts and golf tournaments. Come see what its like to live a small town life, while living in driving proximity to Lake Tahoe, Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Check out Penn Valley Schools

Penn Valley Market Report