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4/3/12
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Suzi Brakken
No hibernating! There are so many ways to enjoy the winter in Plumas County outdoors, including sledding (bottom) and making upside down snow angels (right).
s l e dd i n g & o t h e r f u n WINTER DRIVING Bill Obernesser
Snow is made for playing! Take your kids sledding down a snowy hillside or treat your dog to a romp through some freshly fallen snow. Or, if the weather’s been cold, there are frozen ponds, lakes and creeks ideal for ice skating if you have your own skates. Check with local Forest Service offices for favorite spots and conditions. The town of Chester also has an outdoor ice-skating rink with skate rentals that is open during winter, weather-permitting. If you’re not into exercise, you can still experience winter’s beauty on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Sled dog racing and longboard ski races are popular spectator sports for visitors in winter. Each President’s Day weekend in February, snowmobile poker runs are held in Chester-Lake Almanor and in Portola at Lake Davis. The Eastern Plumas Winter Snowfest that weekend also includes a variety of fun snow competitions, rides and activities, including snowman building, snow bowling and snow golf. Bucks Lake also holds a poker run in early February. For a complete and more updated list of winter activities and events, contact local visitor centers listed on page 10 or visit www.plumascounty.org or www.plumasnews.com.
Plumas County roads are generally well-maintained and passable during the winter. Chain requirements are far less frequent than other mountain destinations due to the lower elevations. If it’s snowing, we advise traveling via the Feather River Canyon on State Route 70. This lower elevation route offers a safe alternative to travel to and from Plumas County even when Interstate 80 or other routes are closed. You’re less likely to ever need chains if you have four-wheel drive or snow tires. For all other vehicles, it’s a good idea to always
Carl Raymond Piesch
carry chains.. Check the weather forecast at (530) 221-5613 and call (800) 427-7623 for road conditions. Complete weather and road conditions can be found at www.plumasnews.com. Remember to drive more slowly during the winter, and allow plenty of time.
2012 - 2013 PLUMAS COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE
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