Tony Mindling
There are several places to picnic around Lake Almanor.
Chester - Lake Almanor
The surrounding Lassen National Forest maintains two nearby wilderness areas, the Caribou and the Ishi, which are easy to explore. History buffs and adventurers can enjoy a half-day trip to Seneca. A few inhabitants and a unique bar are all that remain of this once-thriving mining town where gold was found in 1851. Warner Valley, which leads into Lassen Volcanic National Park, offers another scenic side trip, with small lakes, campsites, hiking trails and the historical Drakesbad Guest Ranch. For more information about the area, contact the Lake Almanor Chamber of Commerce at (530) 258-2426 or info@lakealmanorarea.com.
➸ Take a dip at the beaches on the west shore. ➸ Drive around Lake Almanor and enjoy a picnic and views at the rest stop on the lake’s north end. ➸ Bike, hike or ski the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail along the lake’s west shore. ➸ Rent a patio boat to tour the lake; look for eagles, grebes and osprey. ➸ Take a day trip to nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park and learn about the area’s unique geology. ➸ At Drakesbad; follow Feather River Drive to Willow Lake and hike along the lake. Afterward, soak in the geothermally heated pool.
BEST BETS
➸ Visit the Caribou Wilderness area, land of a thousand lakes, protected since 1932. ➸ Golf three scenic and challenging courses along the lake. ➸ Rent skis or snowshoes and enjoy miles and miles of snowy trails in the surrounding forest. ➸ Fish for trophy trout at Butt Valley Reservoir. More Info: (530) 258-2426 2013 - 2014 PLUMAS COUNTY VISITORS GUIDE
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CHESTER AND LAKE ALMANOR AREA
A large network of trails offer myriad opportunities for hiking, biking and exploring, both around the lake and in the surrounding Lassen and Plumas national forests. The North Fork Feather River, which flows into Almanor, and nearby Yellow Creek are favorites with catch-andrelease fly anglers. Nearby Butt Valley Reservoir is widely known as a great fishery for trout. The Almanor Basin is also a pristine jewel for winter recreation, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and snowshoeing. Highlights of this wintry season include chili cook-offs, snowmobile poker runs and sled dog races. The charming town of Chester, located at the northern end of the lake, offers a full range of amenities. Shoppers can browse Main Street with its unique gift shops, galleries and eateries. Annual art and craft shows, a fireworks display, a parade and the Chester Classic 5K Fun Run highlight July 4. The September Streetrod Extravaganza is among many special events featured each year. The town also hosts wine walks and is the starting point for Art Around the Lake and the Century Mile High 100 Bike Ride during the summer. Services for visitors are also available in small communities along the lake, including Prattville, East Shore, Lake Almanor West, the Lake Almanor Peninsula, Hamilton Branch and Canyon Dam. Overnight visitors to Chester/Lake Almanor can choose from a wide range of motels, resorts, vacation rentals, bed and breakfast inns and campgrounds.