The California sun warms your back as you step out of the car, a crystalline breeze carrying the scent of pine and sun-baked earth. Lake Almanor stretches before you, a turquoise expanse kissed by the distant snow-capped Lassen peak. This is your summer sanctuary – a place to trade the city’s frantic pace for days filled with adventure and nights cloaked in a million twinkling stars.
Lake Almanor and Plumas County is home to some of our favorite destination getaways over the past 10 years of trapsing the Sierra. With Lassen Peak rising in the horizon and Lake Almanor brimming with Alpine lake excitement, visitors will be swept away by this cozy Northern California scenic destination.
3 Hours North of Sacramento< Lake Almanor can be reached with several Scenic Route options that include beautiful forest Landscape ride over the Northern Sierra. Choose from these scenic routes :
- Route 49 to 89 – Travel from Sacramento to Grass Valley then over Hwy 49 and the Yuba pass then North on highway 89 through Quincy and then into Lake Almanor. We love this route as it adds in all kinds of Gold History around Sierra City, Beautiful Lake country near Graeagle and then Highway 89 is such a great river canyon route that lets you explore the best of Northern California.
- Route 70 may be the typical route for most travelers as it has an incredible canyon trip that includes the Railroad History of the North and scenic river bridge crossings. However in 2022-24 70 has been closed most of the year as it continues to battle rockslides and debris slides from the devastation of the Dixie fire scar that torched this ridge country in 21.
- Route 32 – Chico to Lake Almanor is another great scenic river canyon route that is traveled much less, but is well worth consideration. The route technically starts at Orland off Interstate 5 and runs through Chico. We love this route as it drops you in really close to the South entrance of Lassen Volcanic Park and the drive from there to Chester Ca. Is a great drive in Northern California plus has one of our favorite places to Stay while visiting the Region. St. Bernard Lodge
An Adventure for Every Soul
Lake Almanor is a playground for water enthusiasts. Mornings can begin with a serene paddle beneath the awakening sun, the water a mirror reflecting the majesty of the surrounding mountains. Or is one of California’s Favorite Fishing destinations for trophy trout and salmon fisheries. A growing popularity of small mouth bass fishing is also being lead by professional bass fisherman. It is host to populations of Browns, Rainbows, as well as Land Locked King Salmon.
As the day heats up, the thrill of wakeboarding or waterskiing awaits, the spray cooling you as you carve across the glassy surface. For a more leisurely pace, rent a pontoon boat and let the gentle rhythm of the waves lull you into a state of pure bliss.
Hit the trails
But the adventures extend beyond the water’s edge. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the miles of trails that snake through the Plumas National Forest or near by Caribou wilderness and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you traverse meadows bursting with wildflowers, the distant call of a woodpecker your only companion. Lake Almanor is well known for its variety of bid populations that either make the lake home year round or use it as part of the great American bird migrations each winter.
The surrounding Plumas National Forest boasts a network of trails catering to every level of experience, from leisurely family strolls to challenging climbs with breathtaking vistas. Here’s a taste of what awaits:
Easy Breezy Lakeside:
- Lake Almanor Recreation Trail (11 miles): Enjoy a relaxing stroll or bike ride along this paved trail. Take in scenic vistas of the lake and informative signs along the way. Perfect for families with young children or anyone seeking a casual lakeside experience.
Moderate Challenges, Majestic Rewards:
- Domingo Springs Trail (7 miles): Immerse yourself in Lassen Volcanic National Park on this moderate hike. Lush greenery surrounds Domingo Springs, and the trail rewards you with stunning views as it enters the park.
Reaching for New Heights:
- Juniper Lake/Mt. Harkness Trail (5.5 miles): Calling all ambitious hikers! This challenging loop trail inside Lassen National Park will take you to soaring heights of 8,000 feet. The panoramic views of the park’s unspoiled beauty are more than worth the effort.
Volcanic Delights:
- Devil’s Kitchen (1.7 miles): Witness the wonders of geothermal activity on this easy hike within Lassen National Park. The trail leads you to a fascinating hydrothermal site.
- Boiling Spring Lake (1.0 mile): Hike to the largest boiling acid lake in the United States – a truly unique sight! This moderately challenging trail is located in Lassen National Park.
- King Creek Cascades and Fall (2.25 miles): This challenging hike within Lassen National Park will lead you to the cascading beauty of King Creek Falls. Prepare for a workout, but the reward is a breathtaking waterfall.
- Cinder Cone and Butte Lake: This is a moderate to Challenging hike depending on if you decide to brave the climb up and into the cinder cone. A beautiful walk along the Lava flow is met with spectacular views and one final hurdle for epic views and out of this world terrain.
Epic Adventure:
- Pacific Crest Trail (variable distance): For the ultimate challenge, consider tackling a section of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. This iconic trail traverses diverse landscapes and offers a chance to truly connect with nature. Be sure to plan and prepare accordingly for this long-distance trek.
Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Lake Almanor offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. Cozy cabins nestled amongst the pines provide a quintessential lake experience, complete with crackling fireplaces and stargazing from your private deck. Modern vacation rentals offer all the comforts of home, perfect for families or groups. For a touch of luxury, consider one of the lakeside resorts, where you can pamper yourself with spa treatments and indulge in delectable meals overlooking the water.
Finding Your Home Away From Home: Lake Almanor offers a range of cozy escapes to suit your vacation style. Steeped in history, St. Bernard Lodge beckons with its rustic elegance and charming European style lodge, perfect for a touch of nostalgia. For a classic lakeside retreat, consider the Plumas Pines Resort, featuring spacious cabins with stunning views and all the comforts of home. If you crave an adventure-ready basecamp, Camp Almanor at Big Springs offers cabins, RV sites, and a fishing lake, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. No matter your preference, you’re sure to find the perfect place to unwind and embrace the beauty of Lake Almanor.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Lake Almanor caters to every craving, from casual lakeside dining to upscale experiences. For a taste of lakeside luxury, Pines Resort offers delectable cuisine with stunning lake views, perfect for a special occasion. Craving a classic lake Breakfast? We highly recommend Lola’s family diner for al you breakfast classics. In between, explore a variety of restaurants offering everything from farm-to-table fare to international cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick bite, Lake Almanor has something to tantalize your taste buds.
After a day of adventure, tantalize your taste buds with the fresh offerings of the region. A Brew and Pub grub at the Timber house is a popular choice. Lakeside restaurants boast open-air patios, where you can savor succulent grilled fish caught just that morning, all while soaking in the captivating sunset.
Tee Up for Adventure:
Golf enthusiasts will love Lake Almanor, the area boasts several courses to challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. And trust us Golfing int he Mountain air is like golfing nirvana.
- Lake Almanor Country Club: This premier course offers a scenic 18-hole championship layout, perfect for a memorable round of golf. Semi Private golf club, open to the public. A challenging 9-hole layout with two sets of tees and views of Lake Alamanor and Mt. Lassen.
- Lake Almanor West Golf Course: This shorter, 9-hole course is ideal for a more relaxed golfing experience, with beautiful mountain scenery and a focus on precision over raw power. Lake Almanor West Golf Course is a beautiful 9-hole course with two distinct sets of tee boxes, creating the feel and challenge of an 18 hole course.
- Baily Creek Golf Course: Lake Almanor’s only 18-Hole Championship Golf Course Designed by Homer Flint, this 18-hole golf course is the crown jewel of the Lake Almanor basin.
No matter your skill level or preference, you’re sure to find the perfect course to tee off and enjoy the breathtaking scenery around Lake Almanor.
As dusk settles, gather around a crackling bonfire, sharing stories under a canopy of stars so bright, they seem close enough to touch. The day’s adventures replay in your mind, a symphony of laughter, exhilaration, and the pure joy of being present in this breathtaking place.
Lake Almanor isn’t just a summer vacation; it’s an escape that nourishes the soul, ignites the spirit of adventure, and leaves you yearning to return for another dose of sun-dappled days and starry nights.
