Best Mariposa Hotels, California • James Kaiser

There are about a dozen hotels in the small town of Mariposa, located 30 miles southwest of Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance (45-minute drive). From Arch Rock Entrance to Yosemite Valley it’s about 10 miles (15-minute drive). Founded in 1849 by gold miners, Mariposa fell on hard times by the end of the 20th century. For years it was mostly known as the last outpost of reasonably-priced gas and groceries anywhere near Yosemite Valley. Recently, however, Mariposa has become more upscale. Today the charming Gold Rush-era downtown is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and tap rooms.