Plumas County, California: A Scenic Gem in the Sierra Nevada

Main Attractions in Plumas County

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park:

While the majority of this park lies in neighboring Lassen County, Plumas County provides access to the natural wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The park is home to fascinating geothermal features such as hot springs, fumaroles, and boiling mud pots, alongside scenic hiking trails that traverse volcanic peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. The highlight is Mount Lassen, an active volcano that last erupted in 1915. Hiking to the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range.

2. Plumas National Forest:

Covering more than a million acres, the Plumas National Forest is the heart of Plumas County’s outdoor adventure scene. This vast wilderness offers hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Lakes and rivers throughout the forest provide prime spots for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Some of the most popular destinations within the forest include Bucks Lake Wilderness and Feather River Canyon, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views of steep cliffs, waterfalls, and rugged terrain.

3. Lake Almanor:

One of Plumas County’s premier recreation areas, Lake Almanor is a large reservoir known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of Mount Lassen. The lake is a hub for water-based activities, including boating, sailing, fishing, and jet-skiing. Surrounding the lake are campgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic trails that make it a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Lake Almanor Scenic Byway offers a leisurely drive around the lake with access to various viewpoints and recreation areas.

4. Feather River Scenic Byway:

This stunning drive through Plumas County follows the path of the North Fork Feather River, cutting through deep canyons and offering dramatic views of rugged cliffs and rushing waters. The byway stretches from Oroville in Butte County through Plumas National Forest, passing historic towns, railroad trestles, and hiking trails along the way. The Feather River Canyon section is particularly picturesque, known for its waterfalls, forested hillsides, and historic railroad bridges.

5. Bucks Lake:

A hidden gem in Plumas County, Bucks Lake is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and boating. This scenic alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests and mountain peaks, making it a peaceful retreat for outdoor activities. The area around Bucks Lake offers several hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. The nearby Bucks Lake Wilderness provides a more rugged experience for backcountry adventurers.

6. Western Pacific Railroad Museum:

Located in the town of Portola, the Western Pacific Railroad Museum offers a unique look into the history of railroads in Northern California. The museum is home to an impressive collection of vintage locomotives, cabooses, and railroad cars. Visitors can explore the exhibits, take guided tours, and even operate a real locomotive as part of the museum’s Run-A-Locomotive program. The museum is a must-visit for history buffs and train enthusiasts.

7. Indian Valley:

This scenic valley, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, is home to the charming towns of Greenville and Crescent Mills. Indian Valley is known for its ranching heritage and offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore the quiet backroads, enjoy local farmers’ markets, and take in the beautiful views of meadows, forests, and mountains.

Famous Cities and Towns in Plumas County

1. Quincy:

As the county seat of Plumas County, Quincy is a small but vibrant town with a rich history. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Quincy has a historic downtown filled with Victorian-era buildings, local shops, cafes, and art galleries. The town is a gateway to the Plumas National Forest and offers easy access to hiking trails, campgrounds, and outdoor recreation areas. Quincy is also home to Feather River College, a small community college known for its focus on natural resource management and outdoor programs.

2. Portola:

Situated along the Feather River, Portola is best known for its railroad history and the Western Pacific Railroad Museum. The town is a popular stop for travelers exploring the Feather River Scenic Byway, and its location near Lake Davis makes it a great base for fishing and boating enthusiasts. Portola also has several parks, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation areas nearby, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

3. Graeagle:

A charming mountain town, Graeagle is known for its picturesque setting and red-painted cabins, which were once homes for the workers of a local lumber company. Today, Graeagle is a popular destination for outdoor activities, with access to hiking, golfing, fishing, and horseback riding. The nearby Lakes Basin Recreation Area offers stunning alpine scenery with numerous lakes, hiking trails, and camping spots. Graeagle’s small-town charm and scenic surroundings make it a favorite destination for weekend getaways.

4. Chester:

Located near the northern shore of Lake Almanor, Chester is a gateway to both the lake and Lassen Volcanic National Park. This small town offers a range of outdoor activities, from boating and fishing on Lake Almanor to hiking and wildlife viewing in the nearby wilderness areas. Chester also serves as a base for exploring the volcanic wonders of Lassen, making it a popular stop for visitors to the region.

5. Greenville:

Set in the heart of Indian Valley, Greenville is a quiet town with a strong connection to its ranching and agricultural roots. Although the town was severely impacted by the Dixie Fire in 2021, efforts are underway to rebuild the community. Greenville remains an important part of Plumas County’s history and culture, with scenic views of Indian Valley and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.