Page 114 - 2025-2026 Travel Guide to California

PLUMAS COUNTY
Where Adventure and Nature Unite
GREAT
OUTDOORS,
SCENIC, WILDLIFE
Plumas County
plumascounty.org
WAKE SURFING ON LAKE ALMANOR, above; View
of fall foliage from bridge near Chester, below.
Nearly two centuries ago, Captain Louis
Arguello named a stream in north-
eastern California “El Rio de Las
Plumas,” or the “River of the Feathers,”
inspired by the waterfowl that graced its
banks. Today, Plumas County is a haven for
nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone
craving a slice of tranquility. Here are four
reasons why.
A Scenic Escape
Plumas County is a quick, scenic drive from
Reno, the San Francisco Bay Area or Sacra-
mento. But unlike its neighboring locales,
you won’t find crowds. Instead, you’ll find
a slower pace with over 1 million acres of
forest. Despite wildfire scars, the county’s
resilience shines through its preserved
lands like the Maddalena Ranch and Heart
K Ranch, ideal for year-round hiking and
bird-watching.
Nature’s Playground
Spring awakens in Plumas County. See wild-
flowers like California poppies, and the rare
California pitcher plant in Butterfly Valley.
From May through July, the terroir trans-
forms into a dream turf for nature walkers
and photographers. For more adventure
consider fishing, kayaking, biking, and
camping. At California Watchable Wildlife
sites like Antelope Lake/Indian Creek and
Lake Davis, ornithologists enjoy zooming-
in their binoculars during guided bird walks
offered by the Plumas Audubon Society.
Original Hubs
Each town in Plumas County has its own
charm. Quincy, the county’s heart,
enchants with historical charm and a
friendly vibe. Head to Chester near Lake
112 2025-26 TRAVEL GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA
B Y I L O N A K A U R E M S Z K Y
Almanor for lakeside relaxation. Or visit
Graeagle, with its red buildings and eclectic
shops. With over 30 towns dotting the
county, you’ll find authentic rural Cali-
fornia at every turn.
Seasonal Events and Local Flavors
No matter when you visit, Plumas County
knows how to have a good time. In
summer, outdoor concerts and craft fairs
create a festive buzz. Spring ushers in the
seasons of activities and events opening
with the quirky Big Time Logging Jam-
boree, where you can watch skilled
lumberjacks in action. The region is at its
peak in the fall. Thanks to the county’s
varying altitudes and diverse tree species,
leaf-peeping here is a drawn-out affair that
lasts well into November.
For craft beer enthusiasts, The Brewing
Lair in Blairsden is a must-visit, with disc
golf and live music adding to the fun.
Quintopia Brewery in Quincy pairs sea-
sonal beers with globally inspired bites.
Delicious bold crafts beers, stout and ales
can be enjoyed at Waganupa Brewery on
Lake Almanor peninsula, while Timber
Lodge offers craft beer as well as spirits and
fine dining.
And don’t miss the chili cook-offs, a culi-
nary showdown in February in both
Chester and Quincy, that’ll warm your heart
and your taste buds.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Plumas County isn’t just a destination—it’s
an experience. From wildlife viewing and
star-studded skies to quirky, welcoming
communities and thrilling outdoor activi-
ties, this northern Sierra county promises
memories as vibrant as the landscapes.
PLUMAS COUNTY