The deep Sierra terrain opens to scenic Hermit Valley, where the Mokelumne River becomes the centerpiece of an open meadow teaming with wildlife and
wildflowers.

From here you could opt to hike the Deer Creek Trail through the Mokelumne Wilderness and view beaver ponds on Grouse Creek, and 4-wheelers can opt to take the Deer Valley 4WD cross country road to Highway 88. During the 1850s, Hermit Valley provided an excellent resting place for travelers who had just descended the 1000 feet over to the east side and housed a toll gate for silver
seekers in 1864.