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s n ow s h o e i n g & n o r d i c s k i i n g Wintertime in Plumas County is serene and beautiful, as snow covers the landscape and things relax. This tranquil season offers a terrific way to view nature’s landscapes while getting great exercise and having some inexpensive winter fun. Virtually the entire forest is open for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing, with options ranging from beginner-level flat, groomed track to challenging peaks and backcountry calling for more advanced telemarking skill. Before venturing off, especially in an unmarked area, make sure to check weather conditions, bring adequate clothing, gear, food and water, and let someone know (a park ranger, friend or relative) where you're headed. For a list of suggested trails and directions, contact the local visitor centers on page 10. For maps and more details on the areas listed below, call the Plumas National Forest (530) 2832050 or the Lassen National Forest (530) 258-2141.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is just 35 miles from Chester on Highway 36/89. Lassen Volcanic National Park boasts over 150 miles of marked and unmarked trails for nonmotorized winter sports. Ranger-led snowshoe walks are held Saturdays and Sundays during the winter. Contact Lassen Park (530) 5954480 for details. Forest also leads various snowshoe tours for the public as snow permits. Call (530) 258-2141 for a current schedule. An interpretive recreation trail on the west shore of Lake Almanor provides miles of great scenery and easy access. The Mc-
Steve Koenig
In the Chester-Lake Almanor Area, the Lassen National
Take in the majestic views and explore the snowy terrain on your own at Eureka Peak.
Gowan Ski Area, Colby Meadows, Childs Meadow, Warner Valley Road and the Caribou Wilderness all afford quiet excursions
and within the Bucks Lake Wilderness Area, including the trail
near Chester.
to Spanish Peak. Skiers share the remaining trails with snow-
In Indian Valley, several unplowed roads and trails offer ex-
mobilers.
cellent routes for snowshoers and skiers. A favorite is the road leading out to Antelope Lake, beginning just past Genesee.
Other areas near Quincy include Snake Lake and Argentine Ridge.
In the eastern portion of the county, beginner ski trails are of-
The La Porte Area also offers good winter sports terrain and
fered in Plumas-Eureka State Park, including the 2.5-mile
staging areas. During winter, La Porte is generally accessible
groomed Jamison Canyon Ski Trail that takes off from the park
only from the southern route (from Marysville/Oroville, via
museum parking lot. Other trails begin at the Eureka Bowl ski
Highway 20 and County Road E-21). Skiers and snowshoers can
area, and more advanced terrain suited for telemarking leads to
follow groomed snowmobile trails along Little Grass Valley
Eureka Peak. Ranger-led snowshoe nature hikes are held on
Reservoir and can find other shared trails at Lexington Hill.
weekends during the winter. The Lakes Basin Ski Trail takes off from the Gold Lake Staging Area south of Graeagle in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Open only to non-motorized users, the marked and groomed moderate trail continues 1.5 miles, paralleling Graeagle Creek. Intermediate and advanced unmarked routes are featured elsewhere in the Lakes Basin which is also a popular destination for snowmobilers. The Bucks Lake Area near Quincy is a popular winter sports staging area that offers skiers and snowshoers a marked loop trail as well as miles of backcountry groomed and ungroomed trails. Vehicles are excluded on the Bucks Summit Loop Trail,
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2012 - 2013 PLUMAS COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE
Equipment Rentals Cross-country ski equipment may be rented at the following locations: In the Chester area, Bodfish Bicycles and Quiet Mountain Sports, 149 Main St., (530) 2582338; and Childs Meadow Resort, (530) 595-3383. In Eastern Plumas, Mountain Hardware, Bonta St., Blairsden, (530) 836-2589. Snowshoes may be rented at Bodfish in Chester, and Mountain Hardware in Blairsden.