🏫 Neighborhood & Schools

Welcome to Penn Valley, California — a charming, rural community known for its rolling pastures, tall pines, and small-town spirit. Residents enjoy the perfect balance of country living with easy access to modern conveniences.

Downtown Grass Valley and Nevada City are just minutes away, offering farm-to-table restaurants, local wineries, and a thriving arts scene. Outdoor enthusiasts love nearby Englebright Lake, Bridgeport Covered Bridge, and South Yuba River State Park for hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Penn Valley’s schools are part of the Nevada Joint Union School District, and the area offers a relaxed lifestyle where neighbors wave, wildlife wanders, and peace comes naturally.

📍 Location

Tucked into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Penn Valley offers a peaceful country lifestyle without sacrificing convenience. Located just 15 minutes west of Grass Valley and Nevada City, and less than two hours from the Bay Area, this region is a favorite for those seeking space, serenity, and a slower pace of life.

🌲 Rural Serenity Meets Modern Convenience

Surrounded by oak-studded hills and pine forests, Penn Valley is known for its tranquil scenery, mild four-season climate, and friendly, small-town vibe. Yet, daily essentials—grocery stores, dining, schools, and local services—are only minutes away.

🚗 Ideal Accessibility

• 5 minutes to downtown Penn Valley for dining, shops, and schools

• 15 minutes to Grass Valley and Hwy 49 for commuter access

• 20 minutes to Nevada City’s historic downtown

• 1 hour 45 minutes to Sacramento International Airport

• 2 hours to Lake Tahoe for skiing, hiking, and mountain escapes

🌄 Lifestyle & Recreation

Residents enjoy endless outdoor adventures—from kayaking and fishing at Englebright Lake, to hiking the South Yuba River Trails, or spending weekends exploring the charming local wineries and artisan markets. The Western Gateway Park and nearby equestrian centers make this a haven for outdoor lovers, while community events like Penn Valley Rodeo Days celebrate its rich western heritage.

🍷 Nearby Attractions

• Pilot Peak Winery – Award-winning local wines and tasting patio

• Bridgeport Covered Bridge – California’s longest historic covered bridge

• Western Gateway Dog Park & Disc Golf Course – Community recreation hub

• Downtown Grass Valley – Restaurants, boutique shopping, and arts scene

🏠 Why Buyers Love Penn Valley

Penn Valley’s peaceful setting, affordability, and proximity to major destinations make it a hidden gem for Bay Area transplants, retirees, and anyone craving more land and less noise. With properties like 19238 Branding Iron Rd, you can live surrounded by nature while still staying connected to everything Northern California offers.

🌆 City Profile: Living in Penn Valley

• Population: ~1,600

• County: Nevada

• Vibe: Country living meets convenience

• Commute: 15 min to Grass Valley, 25 min to Nevada City, 1 hr 45 min to Sacramento

• Highlights: Englebright Lake, Gateway Park, Pilot Peak Winery, Western Gateway Dog Park

• Weather: Four mild seasons with warm summers and crisp, starry winters