The Sierra Mountains Hides This Secret California Town Where Outdoor Adventures Are Endless
Situated amongst the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where it almost hides in a canyon in Tahoe National Forest, sits the paradise of Sierra City. It might seem to be a remote place, but it's actually less than two hours' drive away from food and art hub Reno over the Nevada border. It's also an hour-and-a-half road trip from the shores of Lake Tahoe. Sierra City's history dates to 1850 when it was founded as a mining town near the Sierra Buttes Mine, which became the second-largest gold producer in Sierra County. A winter avalanche in 1853 leveled part of the town, forcing a rebuild at its current elevation of just over 4,000 feet. Fortunately, the scenic beauty and crisp mountain air remained, and they lure visitors to the mountain town time and again to experience the alpine beauty for themselves.
With a population of fewer than 300 people and a historic downtown, Sierra City offers a place to hide from the bustle of everyday life, with a backdrop of scenic vistas. It's one of the best-kept secrets of Northern California for outdoor adventure, with hiking, camping, and fishing leading the way.
Hike and explore the Sierra Nevada mountain range from Sierra City
A series of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels are among the highlights of this charming small town. One strenuous 6-mile hike begins at the Sierra Buttes Trailhead north of town and treks up the 8,500-foot peaks of the Sierra Buttes range to a fire lookout tower. Shorter hikes encircle Sardine Lakes or let you trek out to Frazier Falls and Loves Falls. The latter hike lets you see part of the multi-state 2,650-mile-long Pacific Crest Trail, which winds through the region. Hiking trail information can be found through the Forest Service's hiking trail maps to Tahoe National Forest.
Combining history and outdoors, you can also visit the Kentucky Mine Historic Park to tour the museum, replica miners cabin, mining room, and stamp mill. Tripadvisor reviews note that the guided tour, which happens twice daily, is well worth the $10 adult and $5 child admission fees. Amateurs and enthusiasts can pan for gold at the Union Flat Campground, which is the only place on the North Yuba River for recreational mining, according to the Forest Service. They note that the recreational mining is hands and pans only and advise visitors to take note of existing claims in the area. Sierra Pines Resort and several other town establishments offer area trail maps and guides to the region.
Fish, boat, swim, and raft in the North Yuba River
Sierra City's location, adjacent to the North Yuba River, lends itself to some of the best fishing in Northern California, particularly regarding rainbow, brook, and brown trout. The Forest Service recommends learning the fishing regulations and obtaining any applicable licenses or permits before casting your line. Check at Sierra Hardware in Downieville, west along California State Route 49, for a license if you need one. There's also a swimming hole and the opportunity to experience Class IV and V rapids for white water rafting seasonally along the North Yuba River.
The surrounding area of Sierra City, including Downieville and the Lakes Basin, offers another 20 lakes for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. During summer, these lakes offer boating recreation. If you're an avid mountain biker or want to try it out, Downieville is known for its mountain biking trails, including its famous Downville Downhill. There are options to rent a mountain bike in town to try a trek, and Downieville boasts an annual Mountain Bike Race and Festival annually in August. Sierra City boasts a few restaurants to fuel up for the day or to unwind and relax after a busy day outdoors. The Red Moose Cafe is rated the No. 2 restaurant in the area by Tripadvisor users for its home-cooked food and friendly service for breakfast and lunch. For dinner, Tripadvisor users recommended the Sierra Pines Resort's restaurant for its stellar views and fresh-cooked trout.
Sierra City and its surrounding towns can be uniquely enjoyed during any season; however, the greater Sierra Nevada mountain range offers some of the best autumn views in California. Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves with plenty to satisfy their need for adventure and a longing to return for more.