You Can Leave the Sierra… But It Never Leaves You

Why do so many of us leave the mountains… only to spend the rest of our lives finding our way back?

Raised in Portola in California’s Sierra Valley, Rocci Twitchell grew up fishing alpine lakes, riding horses through Mohawk Valley, exploring the Sierra Buttes, and spending weekends around Yuba Pass, Packer Lake, Gold Lake, and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Like so many people raised in small mountain towns, he couldn’t wait to leave.

Years later, after building a career in martial arts, authoring books, raising a family, and traveling the country, he found himself drawn back to the very mountains he once couldn’t wait to escape.

In this conversation, Charlie and Rocci reflect on growing up in the Sierra Nevada, the lessons learned far from home, and why certain places continue to shape us long after we’ve left. Along the way, they share stories of fishing hidden lakes, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, family traditions, Native American perspectives on reconnecting with the land, and preserving the communities that make the Sierra so special.

Whether you know Sierra Valley by heart or you’re discovering this remarkable corner of the Sierra Nevada for the first time, this conversation is a reminder that the mountains aren’t simply places we visit—they become part of who we are.

Sierra Rec explores the people, places, history, and outdoor experiences that define the Sierra Nevada. Through conversations with guides, historians, outdoor experts, conservationists, and lifelong locals, we help you experience these mountains more deeply—whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply dreaming about the next time you head for the trail.

Places You’ll Discover in This Conversation

From the quiet communities of Portola, Graeagle, and Clio to the alpine lakes beneath the Sierra Buttes, this conversation is packed with places worth adding to your Northern Sierra bucket list.

Along the way, Rocci shares memories and recommendations from some of the region’s most memorable destinations, including:

• Lakes Basin Recreation Area – A network of alpine lakes, campgrounds, hiking trails, and quiet mountain roads.
• Packer Lake – One of Rocci’s favorite places to relax, read, and reconnect with the mountains.
• Gold Lake – A scenic stop surrounded by history, forests, and easy access to outdoor adventure.
• Young America Lake – A high-country destination where the extra hike often rewards anglers with solitude.
• Sardine Lakes – Beautiful alpine lakes known for fishing, hiking, and spectacular Sierra views.
• Fraser Falls – One of the easiest and most rewarding waterfalls to visit in the Lakes Basin.
• Lake Davis – A favorite for trout fishing, wildlife viewing, and quiet afternoons on the water.
• Downieville and Sierra City – Historic mountain towns that make perfect stops along the drive into the Northern Sierra.

What We Talk About

During this conversation, Charlie and Rocci explore much more than favorite trails and fishing spots. Together they discuss:

• Growing up in the small mountain communities of Portola, Graeagle, and Sierra Valley.
• Why so many young people leave rural mountain towns—and what draws many of them back years later.
• Childhood memories of horseback riding, fishing, camping, and life around the Sierra Buttes.
• Finding peace and perspective in the outdoors during life’s most difficult seasons.
• Sharing the Sierra with the next generation through family traditions and outdoor adventures.
• Favorite Northern Sierra destinations, including Packer Lake, Gold Lake, Young America Lake, Fraser Falls, and Lake Davis.
• How a lifelong journey in martial arts helped shape discipline, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the mountains that first taught those lessons.

Memorable Moments from the Conversation

00:00 – Why We Leave the Mountains
Rocci reflects on growing up in Portola and Graeagle, and why so many young people dream of leaving small mountain towns—only to discover later that those places never really leave them.

08:30 – Fishing High Above the Sierra Buttes
A childhood hike to Young America Lake becomes one of Rocci’s favorite Sierra memories, where solitude, brook trout, and unforgettable views made every step worthwhile.

12:30 – Chasing a Bigger Dream
Leaving the Sierra led Rocci into boxing, martial arts, and eventually a career as an instructor and author. He shares how opportunity pulled him away, but never replaced the feeling of home.

23:30 – Finding Healing in the Mountains
During one of life’s most difficult seasons, Rocci found himself returning to the Sierra. Camping, quiet lakes, and reconnecting with nature became part of his path forward.

31:30 – The Northern Sierra Road Trip He Still Loves
From Downieville and Sierra City to the Sacred Springs, Packer Lake, and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, Rocci shares the stops that still define his perfect day in the mountains.

34:00 – Cowboy Lessons That Never Left
Stories from Mohawk Valley Guest Ranch, horseback riding, ranch work, and life in Sierra Valley reveal how growing up in the mountains shaped Rocci’s values long before he realized it.

43:00 – What Solitude Really Means
After traveling the country, Rocci explains why the silence of the Sierra—the dark skies, the forests, and the absence of city noise—is what he misses most.

46:00 – Passing the Sierra to the Next Generation
The conversation ends with a heartfelt reflection on family, traditions, and the hope that future generations will discover the same sense of belonging these mountains have always provided.

Plan Your Own Sierra Adventure

Inspired by Rocci’s favorite places? Here are a few ways to experience this corner of the Northern Sierra for yourself.

Spend a Weekend in the Lakes Basin

Explore alpine lakes like Gold Lake, Packer Lake, and Sardine Lake, then cool off at Fraser Falls before settling into one of the area’s peaceful campgrounds.

Hike to Young America Lake

If you’re willing to put in the miles, this high-country lake rewards hikers with solitude, spectacular views, and excellent brook trout fishing.

Follow the Yuba Pass Scenic Drive

Travel from Downieville through Sierra City and Yuba Pass into the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, stopping at the Sacred Springs and historic mountain communities along the way.

Experience Sierra Valley

Explore one of California’s largest alpine valleys, where ranching history, wildlife, scenic byways, and quiet backroads offer a different side of the Sierra.

Continue Exploring

• 8 Great Recreation Day Trips to Sierra Valley & Sierra County CA
• Places to Stay near Yuba Pass
• Sierra Scenic Routes