Colfax Banner image for visitors page - Bear River cascade - Photo by R. Dutton
California
Home Municipal Services City Government Visitor Information
Visitors! Welcome to Colfax! The Citizens, City Council, and City Staff extend their greetings! 
We hope your visit to our City and region exceed your expectations.  Please use our City and this website as a gateway
 to the history, beauty, and attractions for all ages that are available in our City and region!
Colfax location on California Map

Location

Colfax is located in California's Sierra Foothills, just off of I-80 between Sacramento and Reno, Nevada.

The general elevation of Colfax is 2,400 feet, which is below the heavy snow line. Winter temperatures rarely dip below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Summer highs are generally in the 80s and 90s. Precipitation is approximately forty inches per year, mostly occurring between October and April.

Link to NOAA web site for current weather and alert info.
Transportation Lodging and Dining
Greyhound Bus
(530-346-2248)
and
 Amtrak
(800-872-7245)
 make it easy to get to Colfax by bus or train.

 Placer County Transit
(800-889-BUSS) and
Gold Country Stage
(530-477-0103 or 1-888-660-RIDE)
provide local transportation services.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack just off of the freeway or a "soak-up-the-local-flavor" meal, Colfax can satisfy your taste.
Do phone ahead as some eateries have limited hours.

A number of local lodging facilities make it easy to stay close to the area's many activities.

Please contact the Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce for more lodging and dining information.
Phone 530-346-8888.
Business Listing Recreation

A "Shoppers' Guide to Local Treasures"
may be obtained by contacting the
Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce
at 530-346-8888.

 Partial business listings may be seen at the
 Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Listing.
Situated between the Bear River and the North Fork of the American River, Colfax offers the very best in recreation opportunities with biking and hiking trails, parks and access to rivers and lakes. The variety and beauty of the region provide challenges for every recreational desire.  The City maintains a sports fields with year-round activities and a swimming pool. 
 Recreational web sites in the Colfax Region
Festivals and Events
Fourth of July Celebration
The Parade will take place on Sunday, July 3rd.
There will be no fireworks this year.
Colfax Winterfest
 The Colfax Winterfest includes the ever-popular
Soroptimists' Soup Kitchen, local craft vendors,
visits with Santa, plenty of hot apple cider,
a traditional bonfire,
Lions' Club Light Parade,
and new this year fireworks. 2 to 10 pm.
Sponsored by Colfax Pride, Inc.
 
Please click here for vendor application.
Railroad Days Festival and Business Fair
Held the last full weekend in September of each year, the September 26-27 2009 festival will include an Outdoor Quilt Show, Business Fair, and many family activities.
Check the Chamber's page for the latest information.
Click here to see 2003 photos.
Historical Sights and Information
The rich history of Colfax is closely tied to the gold rush and the original transcontinental railroad. Be sure to visit historic downtown Colfax, just a few short blocks from the I-80 exit.  Don't miss the wood sided caboose on static display at Main Street since 1969.  Reference links to historic railroad information

Other railroad points of interest include: The original passenger depot, built in 1905 in its current location.
Recently restored, it is home to the Colfax Heritage Museum, the Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce and the Visitor Center. The Freight depot, built in 1880, has been moved twice and is considered one of the only remaining freight depots in Placer County. At one time it served both Southern Pacific and the Nevada County Narrow Gauge at this junction between the two lines.  Nearby Cape Horn, famous as one of the most difficult parts of construction for the Transcontinental Railroad. A Vintage Santa Fe modified coach car located near the Visitor Center, Depot and Heritage museum is currently available for rent
or lease from the City of Colfax, 530-346-2313.  

Did you know that the Colfax Walking Path of History
 is a good way to see and discover local secrets and stories?

If you are a railroad or history buff, like to find
antiques or delicious meals, scenic spots or just explore,
this self-guided tour is for you.

Pick up a free copy of the Walking Tour map at the Colfax Area Chamber of Commerce Office.
Walking Path
Historic Downtown Colfax
Shop for antiques and other treasures Hike Get on the train
Coffee break at local coffee shop Fish Get off of the train
Dine Bike ride Pan for gold
Tea at local Bed & Breakfast Horseback ride Boat ride at Rollins Lake
River raft Watch trains Go to the park