Along with mining and logging, ranching is a major piece of Mariposa County’s heritage.

And, unlike the first two, ranching today still forms the major activity in the lower foothill areas. Drives along any of the back roads in this area, such as Hornitos Road, Old Highway, Ben Hur Road, White Rock Road and others, take you through peaceful rangeland where the way of life hasn’t changed much since Europeans first put up their fences and started grazing cows.

Although most ranches are not generally open to the public for wandering around, several establishments in the county are geared to encouraging visitors. In keeping with the growing popularity of AgriNature, these ranchers see the value in connecting with the larger public, as a way both to educate the public about the issues and pressures that threaten ranchers, and also to share with the public the natural wonders and beauty of these open spaces.