In 1820, Captain Louis Arguello explored portions of a stream in northeastern California. Impressed by the large number of bright-feathered waterfowl, he named the stream El Rio de Las Plumas, “River of the Feathers.” From this the names Plumas County and Feather River were born. Nearly 200 years ago, early visitors discovered the diversity of Plumas County’s wildlife riches. Hunting and fishing, of course, but also the attraction of wildlife viewing. Today, wildlife and nature viewing is a popular pastime throughout the steep ridges and mountain valleys of Plumas County— birds, mammals, reptiles and insects are abundant.
After a brief winter nap, spring awakens the wilds and wonders of Plumas County. In their four-season wet or dry years, Plumas County always delivers on the promise to OMG! you at every turn. Scenic back roads, world-class golf, amazing wildflowers, open space with views for days, outdoor recreation for all ages and desires – hike, bike, fish, boat, camp – or just enjoy hushed moments under blue or star-studded skies. A drier than normal winter may mean fewer wildflowers in spring and summer. Mule’s ear, larkspur, yellow meadow buttercups, lupine, California poppies and the rare California pitcher plant in Butterfly Valley are just a few of the dazzling flora to be discovered. The best and busiest season is May through July.
More than 85 percent of the Plumas National Forest’s 1.1 million acres are within Plumas County. However, in the past six years essentially two thirds of the forest was affected by wildfires which has also impacted all the natural wonders. Claiming more than 100 lakes and 1,000 miles of rivers and streams, open space defines Plumas County. The Feather River Land Trust has preserved more than 35,000 acres of private lands. The Maddalena Ranch and Heart K Ranch are open year-round for birding and hiking. Plumas County is Mecca for birdwatchers and nature lovers of all ages. The Plumas Audubon Society offers guided bird walks. Learn about the birds of Lake Almanor in the mountain meadows of Plumas County. Two official California Watchable Wildlife viewing sites are found in Plumas County – Antelope Lake/Indian Creek and Lake Davis. Camping, hiking, biking, fishing and boating are all part of the wildlife and nature tourism experience. Bring your binoculars, camera, and Plumas County Birding Guide along for the ride.
Locavores eat, shop, and learn local
After winter passes, the season of good things from the Earth awakens. Fresh is good and so very good for you. Could there be a better triple threat for visitors and residents than shop local, eat healthy, and support Plumas County farmers and cottage industries? Back in the Gold Rush Era, there was a long tradition of market gardening and local retail that evolved in response to the needs of miners and pioneers. That rich heritage is alive and growing in Plumas County.
Seasonal farmers markets provide an array of produce, meats, arts and crafts and other local treasures for the heart, soul, and stomach. The Quincy Certified Farmers Market, Sundays late June through mid-September, is bountiful regional goods, artisans, massages, baked goods and music. Romano’s Farmers Market, Fridays May (last Friday) – mid-September, is California’s only on-the-farm farmers market. A true destination, fresh fish, local meat, lamb, and eggs, wine tasting, and free guest chef cooking demos. Yes, good vibrations along with local produce, baked goods, and crafts are happening at the Chester Themed Farmers Market at Chester Park at 190 Willow Street. Check online for dates and times.
At Genessee Valley Ranch, the herd is 100% purebred Black Wagyu beef. These animals are pasture-raised solely on a diet of diversified grasses. Each field is rotated with a variety of native grasses to ensure that both the land and the cattle benefit from a sustainable, environmentally sensitive management program. You can savor a wide variety of farm-fresh offerings including ranch beef at the Genessee Store. Just a few miles up the road, Young’s Market in Taylorsville is a historic landmark selling artisan cheeses and cured meats, great beer and wines, and specialty groceries.
Riley’s Jerky in Greenville is family-owned and operated since 1981. Stop by Monday – Saturday or order online. Enjoy jerky and craft beers on the patio.
Throughout Plumas County, fun fare and libations make this road-trip a must! At the crossroads of highways 70 and 89, The Brewing Lair is craft brew in a wooded wonderland. Picnics, disc golf, live music, Ricochet Café food truck, and creative ales – it’s family- and dog-friendly, and just ridiculously fun. In Blairsden, MoFo (mobile food) fanciers will diverge from driving for Bread & Butter food truck where road food has risen to new heights.
Quintopia Brewery is unique and was Quincy’s first brewery in more than a century. The brewer’s specialty is making easy drinking session beers. They feature a diverse menu with an international flare. Don’t miss the Masala chicken loaded fries and cold udon noodle bowl.
New to Chester, Timber Lodge Brewing masterfully crafts ales, lagers, IPAs and porters. For something bolder, the Monkey Face brand of gin, vodka, rye, bourbon and spiced rum will warm the soul.
Bike your cares away in Plumas County!
Mountain biking is big business. In Plumas County, it’s really big and fun. So much so, that they have amazing biking events. There are three “century” rides throughout the county – Mile High, Tour de Manure, Lost & Found Gravel Festival – with picturesque mountain and lake views accessible to all skill levels. Trails beginning at the base of Indian Valley take advanced riders to mountain ridges overlooking the valley. A free Plumas Mountain Biking Trail Guide, available online, details rides in Eastern and Central Plumas County and the Lake Almanor Basin. If mountain biking isn’t your obsession, downshift and bike Plumas County backcountry roads – they’re traffic- and stress-free.
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship has been instrumental in expanding trails throughout Plumas and Sierra counties. The Quincy-based nonprofit has developed the Mills Peak Trail in Graeagle, the South Park trail system in Quincy and is currently in the midst of phase two of the Mount Hough project, which will add 38 miles of new multi-use trails on Hough by next year. Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship’s legacy project, Connected Communities, aims to revitalize Lost Sierra mountain towns through the creation of a 564-mile multi-use singletrack trail that would connect 15 towns, including Truckee and Reno.
Mountain biking is not allowed in wilderness areas or on the Pacific Crest Trail.
Many businesses have seasonal hours of operation. Check online or call ahead.
For more information, visit: plumascounty.org.
