Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

The Secret Big Blue

Bike the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail near Chester in Plumas County

Set at 4,500 feet, surrounded by 52 miles of shoreline, and with a sparkling sapphire hue, Lake Almanor is the other big blue. The secret one. This huge lake—idyllic in spring through fall for all kinds of water adventures—is a gem of Plumas County where you can relax without crowds. The lake is closest to the town of Chester, a basecamp oasis for outdoor adventures. That includes the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail, a car-free dirt and paved multi-use path skirting the shoreline, occasionally dipping inland, and unfurling under a fragrant forest of tall pines, with breakaway views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

For an easy bike ride where you can stop at pocket beaches for lake dips, scan the sky for bald eagles, get a gorgeous view of Mount Lassen, and make a mid-way stop for food and drinks, do the 6-mile (one-way) route from Rocky Point Campground to Plumas Pines Resort. Park just outside Rocky Point Campground, where you’ll also find the marked trailhead.

Pedal north on the west side of the lake underneath the pine canopy, passing campsites and enjoying views of the water. The trail is mostly flat, with a few easy inclines to vantages, like a vista point for taking in beautiful Mount Lassen, looming in its namesake (and nearby) national park.

There are multiple places to park your bike and meander out to the lakeside, where you can wade, swim, picnic, relax, and watch the boats float. Keep your ears keen and your eyes open … osprey and bald eagles call this place home, and it’s not uncommon to spy them flying or—if you’re really lucky—fishing.

After a few miles in, you’ll come to Almanor Drive West. Don’t cross over the road. Instead, turn right and follow the trail to Plumas Pines Resort. Their bar and grill overlook the lake, so grab a seat on the patio and place an order. We like their margaritas and burgers. Remember, you do have to pedal 6 miles back, so keep that in mind with whatever you choose as your refuel refreshment.

Find more great places to stay in Plumas County. To do this route on the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail, park in the outlet just before Rocky Point Campground, and follow the trail north. Dog-friendly!

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In episode "56. The Secluded Sierra " Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss their explorations of Plumas County and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View