By Bradley C. Everest, Trinity County Chamber of Commerce staff

Trinity County’s Autumn Treasure Hunt: The Fall Garage Sale Weekend is Almost Here!

The fall season is upon us, which means pumpkin spice is back on the menu at Starbucks, fall color is out and about, and the second half of the bi-annual Garage Sale weekend is soon to be announced by the Trinity Journal! This opens up an exciting opportunity to hit the road and go treasure hunting, unlike anything else you’ve experienced. Along the way, keep an eye out for one of our elk herds, always an exciting sighting.  Think crisp autumn air, winding roads, and a map leading you to countless hidden gems scattered across our beautiful county! 

A Treasure Hunter’s Paradise in Peak Season

What’s so different about the fall sale, you may ask? While the spring sale may resemble emptying winterized closets and garages, the fall event is a treasure hunter’s dream of a different kind. It’s about finding the warm and the rustic. Trinity County’s stunning mountain landscapes and the first glimpse of fall color become the perfect backdrop for your adventure. As you navigate the serene back roads, you’ll uncover unique items that feel just right for the season—from vintage wool blankets and cast-iron cookware to antique furniture with a rich patina, and retro holiday decorations await a new home. If you love finding that perfect piece to make your home cozier for the coming winter, Trinity County might just be your ideal destination.

Finds for Every Fall Project and Passion

Are you a dedicated DIY-er looking for your next upcycling project? Or a collector on the hunt for rare finds? A family seeking a fun weekend outing! The Trinity County Garage Sale Weekend has something for everyone. The event draws in an incredible variety of sellers, meaning the treasures are just as diverse. You might find a set of tools perfect for those winter projects, canning supplies for your autumn harvest, a stack of classic books to act as a coffee table centerpiece, or the perfect piece of rustic art for your living room wall. It’s a wonderful mix of interests and ages, all sharing in the thrill of discovery.

Savor the Sights and Flavors of an Autumn in Trinity

As you journey from sale to sale, take the time to soak in the unique charm of Trinity County in the fall. The garage sales are the destination, but the journey is an experience in itself.

Some highlights to enjoy during your weekend adventure include:

• Historic Weaverville: Stroll through the charming downtown area, featuring iconic spiral staircases and preserved Gold Rush-era architecture. Grab a warm coffee or a hearty lunch at a local café, and be sure to visit the Taoist Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, a stunning temple, the oldest Chinese temple in California, that looks even more magical surrounded by autumn colors.
• Scenic Drives: The drive along Highway 299 toward the coast, Highway 3 to the North, will likely show fall color, or the routes winding around Lewiston and Hayfork are breathtaking this time of year. The Trinity River scenic byway is always a spectacular drive. 
• Picking, Thrifting, and Antiquing at local stores in Weaverville, check out the Merchant Mall, The Blue Barn Thrift Store, Chappell’s Yard Sale, or Gorgeous By Design. In Lewiston, the Country Peddler sells charming antiques.
• Cozy Dining: After a full day of treasure hunting, settle in for a delicious meal. Trinity County’s restaurants offer a range of comfy and satisfying options, from classic American comfort food to refined dishes featuring local ingredients.

Map Out Your Autumn Adventure

The most crucial tool for your hunt will be the official map! The Trinity Journal will publish a comprehensive guide to all registered garage sale locations in the edition just before the event weekend. It will include addresses, times, and a preview of the treasures you can expect to find. Be sure to grab a copy to plan your route and maximize your time.

Here’s a suggested itinerary to get you started:

• Friday: Start the adventure with a good breakfast in Weaverville. Pick up your copy of the Trinity Journal on Main Street and begin mapping out your priority stops to explore the sales in and around this historic town. This ensures a leisurely afternoon browsing before the weekend crowds arrive.
• Saturday: Head towards Lewiston or Hayfork, taking in the spectacular scenery along the way. These areas often hide some of the best-kept secrets. After a day of successful hunting, treat yourself to a wonderful dinner at Aqua Cafe, the Lewiston Hotel, or one of Lewiston’s other quaint dining options.
• Sunday: This is the day for “The Final Sweep.” Hit any sales you missed or revisit a favorite spot for last-minute bargains. Before heading home, take a peaceful walk along the Trinity River or the shores of Trinity Lake to reflect on your weekend haul.

The Real Treasure is the Trinity County Experience

While you’ll undoubtedly return home with a car full of treasures, the most lasting discovery might just be Trinity County itself. The combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and the friendly spirit of our community creates an unforgettable getaway.

So, keep your eyes on the Trinity Journal for the official dates, mark your calendars, and get ready to fall for the hunt. The treasures of Trinity County await you!