Ride, Paddle, and Savor the West Shore

By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine

If you’re searching for a place to slow down, breathe in the high mountain air, and reconnect with the simple joys of outdoor travel, Lake Almanor’s western shore is waiting. Anchored by one of the most scenic and accessible trails in Northern California, this corner of Plumas County delivers a family-friendly experience that blends motion with stillness—on bike, on foot, or drifting quietly across the lake.

Bike Rentals from high elevation rentals.

This spring, I had the chance to test it myself—riding alongside Robert Smith, owner of High Elevation Rentals, and his two young sons. We met near the shoreline, bikes ready, energy high. What followed was a reminder of just how good it feels to trade the highway for a forest path and let the day unfold on its own terms.

A Ride That Resets the Spirit

I hadn’t been on a bike in over 15 years. But that didn’t matter.

Within minutes, I was coasting beneath towering pines, the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail stretching out in gentle curves along the shoreline. The trail—a well-maintained, mostly paved route—winds along the lake’s west edge through a mix of old-growth forest, open meadows, and occasional lake overlooks.

A windstorm had swept the lake earlier that day, but by the time we rode, the forest had settled into a calm rhythm. Kids laughed ahead, weaving in and out of shadows. The air smelled of pine and lake water. And for the first time in a while, I wasn’t thinking about where I had to be next.

That short ride reminded me that joy doesn’t have to be loud—or complicated. Sometimes, it’s just a stretch of trail, a steady breeze, and the sound of tires crunching quietly over pine needles.

Trail Overview: The Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

  • Length: Approximately 22 miles
  • Surface: Mostly paved or hard-packed
  • Access Points: Canyon Dam, Wilson’s Camp Prattville, and multiple west shore pullouts
  • Best For: Families, casual riders, walkers, shoreline explorers
  • Wildlife: Frequent sightings of bald eagles, osprey, and deer

This trail offers something rare in the Sierra: space to move without effort. It’s ideal for first-time riders, families with small children, or anyone simply looking to take a quiet walk along the water. With multiple points of access and minimal elevation gain, the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail is a perfect summer outing that doesn’t require intense planning—or any permits.

family biking the lake almanor trail

Rentals Made Easy: High Elevation Service

Located in Chester, High Elevation Kayak and Bike Rentals provides everything you need to get on the trail or the lake. Robert and his team offer:

  • Mountain bikes (adult and youth sizes)
  • Kayaks and row yaks
  • Stable, easy-to-use water bikes
  • Delivery and pickup directly to campsites, cabins, or shoreline access points

This is a family-run business with a welcoming spirit. Rentals are flexible, well-maintained, and geared toward making your adventure feel effortless—whether you’re staying at a campground, lakeside resort, or just passing through town.

Trail-Tested Options for Your Day

Whether you’re planning a full day on the trail or just a few easy miles, there are multiple ways to enjoy Lake Almanor’s west side. Consider one of these low-stress combinations:

  • Bike the Trail – Start at Canyon Dam or near Prattville and cruise a few easy miles with lake views and forest shade.
  • Walk from Camp – Many west shore cabins and campsites connect directly to the trail for a peaceful shoreline stroll. Wilsons Camp and Plumas Pines Resort are two that we met on our trip.
  • Paddle Out – Rent a kayak or water bike and explore hidden coves and quiet inlets along the forested shoreline.
  • Do It All – Ride in the morning, grab lunch, then paddle out from a lakeside pullout for the perfect afternoon reset.

Where to Refuel and Relax

No visit to Lake Almanor is complete without a stop at one of these local favorites. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before hitting the trail or winding down after a long ride, these two spots capture the best of the region’s hospitality.

Carol’s Café – Prattville

A beloved local café just minutes from the trail. Carol’s serves up hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, homemade pies, and old-fashioned ice cream treats. It’s a great place to refuel mid-ride or reward the kids after a few miles on the path.

The Deck at Plumas Pines Resort

If lakeside relaxation is what you’re after, this is the spot. The Deck offers lunch, dinner, and cold drinks with a front-row view of the water. There’s plenty of room to sit outdoors, take in live music on summer weekends, and enjoy the breeze rolling off the lake.

Pro Tip: Ride the trail in the morning, have lunch on The Deck, and paddle the shoreline in the evening for a full-sensory summer day.

Why It Matters

Lake Almanor doesn’t need to shout to get your attention. It offers serenity, space, and a pace that invites you to stay a little longer. The Lake Almanor Recreation Trail captures all of that—it’s a path through trees and time, with enough beauty to quiet the busiest mind.

Lake Almanor

Whether you’re riding with your kids, walking with your morning coffee, or paddling toward a shaded cove, this trail reminds you that Sierra adventures don’t always need to be epic to be unforgettable.

Plan Your Trail-Tested Lake Almanor Day