Sierra County Chamber of Commerce

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The Maidu and Washoe Indians were the first residents of this area of the Sierra Nevada. During summers they came into the mountains to hunt and fish. During the fall and winter, they returned to the foothills and valleys below. Artifacts such as spears and arrowheads, beads, mortars, pestles and grinding rocks have been found, particularly along Henness Pass Road. James Marshall's discovery of the yellow metal at Coloma signaled the ending of their peaceful way of life.

Gold in the mountains and valleys slashed by the forks of the North and Middle Yuba Rivers and their tributaries was so plentiful that by April 1852 the area was teeming with people. Sierra County was formed from the then-much larger Yuba County. By the mid-1850's, Downieville, the county seat, was one of the largest towns in California--surpassed only by San Francisco, Sacramento, Grass Valley, and Nevada City. It missed becoming the state capital by only one vote!

Until 1860, all supplies were brought in by mule trains, which sometimes included 75 animals, as there were no roads wide enough for wagons. Downieville and Sierra City and points east were reached from Nevada City by way of Alleghany--there was no Highway 49 back then. Sierra County is comprised of two very different regions. On the west side of the crest of the Sierra it is mountainous and heavily forested, therefore supporting miners and loggers. On the east side is the 5,000-foot-high Sierra Valley, which is said to have been an ancient lake bed that was once part of the great inland ocean of Lake Lahontan. It is one of the largest alpine valleys in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The settlers who remained after the euphoria of the Gold Rush era was over were a hardy and independent breed. Periodically, winter storms have left as much as thirty feet of snow, blocking roads and passes.

Today, Sierra County is home to slightly over 3,300 souls--no less fiercely independent--who cherish a land of incomparable beauty.

Travel and Accommodations in the Mountains

Lodging in Indian Valley

Indian Valley Outpost. Highway 49 west of Downieville. 2 rustic cabins with full kitchen and VCR. On the River. Restaurant next door. Seasonal operation. 530-289-3630

Willow Creek RV Park

Open all year. 5 cabins. Full hook up for RV on 1300 ft. of Willow Creek. Pool, Golf, Horseshoes, Pond. Washer and Dryer, Septic Dump, LP gas, store and campground. One site or group 530-288-2809 http://www.willowcreekrvcamp.com

Lodging in Goodyears Bar

Helms St. Charles Inn, Bed & Breakfast. Goodyears Bar. This renovated 1864 stage-stop hotel has 4 rooms, 3 with a river view. Breakfast. Picnic basket breakfast. Located on the Yuba River with private access. No pets. Open all year. 530-289-0910. http://www.innformation.com/ca/helms

“R” Place. Goodyears Bar. Trailer Park. 3 full hookup sites. Open all year. 530-289-3188

Lodging in Downieville

Downieville River Inn & Resort. 121 River Street. Charming resort set on the North Yuba River in Downieville. Bed & breakfast rooms, cottages, kitchens, fireplaces, heated pool, sauna, picnic areas with BBQs. Open all year. 800-696-3308. http://www.www.downievilleriverinn.com

The Carriage House Inn. 110 Commercial St., Downieville. Lovely setting on the Downie River, 9 charming rooms with T.V.s. Continental breakfast. Private BBQ, patio and gazebo area on the river. Bike storage. Pets OK. Open all year. No smoking. Toll free 1-800-296-2289 or 530-289-3573 http://www.downievillecarriagehouse.com

Riverside Inn. 206 Commercial Street, Downieville. Located on the Downie River. 10 units with balconies overlooking the river. Some with kitchens. Continental breakfast. Patio, barbecue, and picnic area on site. Open all year. No smoking. Pets welcome. 530-289-1000 or 888-883-5100. http://www.downieville.us.

Downieville Creek Side Cottage. Unique private vacation rental. Total privacy on 12.5 acres 3 miles from Downieville. BBQ & patio overlooking waterfall & creek. Kitchen & fireplace. 2 nights min. Adults only. 530-289-3520 http://www.yubaexpeditions.com/creekside/index.html

The Lure Resort. Highway 49, 1 mile east of Downieville. Located on the Yuba River. 11 housekeeping cabins and 8 log camping cabins. Surrounded by 14 beautiful river front acres. The Lure provides a serene environment for your enjoyment with fishing, hiking, swimming, and gold panning. Open all year. Pets welcome. 530-289-3465. 800-671-4084. http://www.lureresort.com

Sierra Shangri-La. Highway 49 east of Downieville. Located on the Yuba River. 8 housekeeping cottages on the river. Some with fireplaces and kitchens. 3 Bed & Breakfast units. Seasonal. 530-289-3455. http://www.sierrashangrila.com

Camp Yuba Stream Side Cabins. Camp Yuba is located six miles east (upstream) of Downieville on Highway 49. Nestled along the North Fork of the Yuba River, Camp Yuba provides the discerning RV camper and cabin visitor with a woodsy, stream side place to stay and relax, fish or explore. RV sites are located next to the river and contain full hook ups. 530.289-3379 or email: campyuba@hotmail.com or http://www.campyuba.com

Willoughby's On The River. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths. Kitchen with all amentities. Deck overlooking the North Yuba River. Private swimming hole just footsteps from the front door. TV, VCR, CD Player, 171 River Street, Downieville. Phone: 289-3573 or 1-800-296-2289. Ask for Willoughby’s on the River. http://www.willoughbysontheriver.com

Downieville Retreat. Enjoy Life! Summer rental on the river, two acres of grass, sun and river. Private access to the river. Waterfall and swimming hole nearby. Hiking and mountain biking trail head at you back door. Walking distance to Downieville. There are 3 houses available, compelety furnished, accommodating 2 to l2 or more. Rent One or all three. Pets are welcome. For reservations call Lynn Berndt, 530-289-3621. http://www.downievilleretreat.com

Sierra Retreats / Downieville Loft: 2700 sq. ft. loft apartment in the heart of downtown Downieville overlooking the junction of the North Yuba and Downie Rivers. Steps from the swimming hole and Main St. of Downtown. Sleeps 6-8 comfortably. All new in 2005!

Sierra City Cabin: 4 queen sized beds in this 3 bedroom/ 2 bath house in the woods. Hot Tub, Pool table room, satellite TV and DVD collection. Close to the river, Lakes Basin and Sierra City. Sleeps 8. Contact: Eric Gellerman, 510-501-2516

Wolfgang’s Downieville Vacation Rental. Mobile home vacation rental. AC, sleeps 4, 600 sq ft. deck. Next to Willougby’s sandy river beach, walking distance to shops and restaurants. Ideal for families & mountain bikers. 530-289-3631 www.downievillevacationrental.com. email: wolf@downievillevacationrental.com

Major William Downie Cabin Site. Cottage rental. 501 Main Street, Downieville. Fully furnished and ready to sleep five people comfortably. Monthly winter rates. Call for more information 530.289.0323.

Lodging in Sierra City

Kokanee Kabins. Highway 49 west of Sierra City. This is a peaceful and relaxing location in the midst of the Tahoe National Forest. Shaded grassy picnic area with grill. 5 full kitchen/housekeeping cabins. Pets OK. No smoking. Open all year. 530-862-1287. http://www.kokaneekabins.com

Herrington’s Sierra Pines. Main Street, Sierra City. AAA approved lodging and dining. Riverview rooms, restaurant, bar, gift shop and trout pond. Serving Sierra County for 37 years. A place of beauty. 21 units. Covered balconies overlooking the Yuba River. River access. Restaurant and bar. Trout pond, gift shop, and snack bar. Open April thru November. 530-862-1151 or 800-682-9848. http://www.herringtonssierrapines.com

Holly House Bed & Breakfast. 119 Main Street, Sierra City. Restored Victorian with 5 lovely rooms. Some with spa tubs. Full breakfast. Open Memorial Day to labor Day. 530-862-1123 FAX 530.862.1040. http://www.hollyhouse.com

My Sister’s Cottage. Main Street, Sierra City. This romantic cottage has a full kitchen, TV, barbecue and private patio. A mountain-view getaway with river access ideal for 2 adults, but has daybed for 1 or 2 children. Pets OK. Open all year. 530-862-1558 or 800-244-7624 http://www.mysisterscottage.com

River Haven Vacation Home. 3 bedroom, 2 bath. Lovely home with incredible river views and access to deep swimming hole, secluded fishing. Beautiful flowering garden. 530-862-1549.

O'Gara-Hayes Vacation Rental. 7 bedroom, 4 bath. Sleeps 12. Large living room, and dining area. Roomy deck overlooking lawn leading to the Yuba River. Very private with plenty of parking. Reservations call Adale Williams at 530-862-1018 or e-mail at adalebill@infostations.com.

Sierra Cozy Cabin. Vacation Rental. 3 bedroom, 1 bath 2 story, Sleeps 6, fully furnished. Completely stocked kitchen and laundry room. Hillside deck with heaters and mountain view located in the town of Sierra City. 5 miles from Gold Lake Road, Bassetts and recreation area. Hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, bicycling, rafting, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Available during all seasons. For more information please call 530-666-9013, 530-862-1393 or email penspage@sbcglobal.net http://www.sierracozycabin.com

Sierra Skies RV Park. Main Street, Sierra City. Frontage on the North Yuba River. 29 units with full hook-ups. All services available. Seasonal. 530-862-1166. e-mail kirbyranch@netzero.net

Buttes Resort. Main street, Sierra City. Housekeeping cabins. Private decks overlooking river. Some cabins have kitchens and fireplaces. 15 rooms. Seasonal. 800-991-1170 or 530-862-1170, email: bresort@hotmail.com.

The Red Moose Inn. Historic 1850's one-room inn, located in Sierra City. Spectacular view of the Sierra Buttes and Yuba River. Easy access with breakfast and lunch cafe next door. Includes home-made cinnamon rolls and fresh coffee each morning. Two night minimum. For reservations call 530-862-1502.

The Buckhorn Upsatirs. 225 Main street, Sierra City.Main Street Vacation apartment. Sleeps 6, full kitchen, dining area, livingroom, TV, DVD, VCR. Deck overlooking Main Street. Restaurant, Bar below. Available by night or week. Pets ok Credit Cards. 530-862-1171.

Yuba River Inn. Main Street, Sierra City. This resort has 10 housekeeping log cabins with full kitchens. Swimming pool. 1/3 mile of private riverfront. Seasonal. 530-862-1122 http://www.yubariverinn.com

Bassett’s Station. Highway 49 and Gold Lake Road. Located at the gateway to the Lakes Basin. 3 housekeeping units. BBQ, and lawn area. Cafe, mini-mart, gas station. Open all year. 530-862-1297 http://www.bassetts-station.com

High Country Inn Bed & Breakfast. Highway 49 and Gold Lake Road. Located on the Yuba River. Private pond and spectacular view of the Sierra Buttes. 5 luxurious rooms. Gourmet breakfast. This is the place for peace and privacy. Open all year. 530-862-1530 or 800-862-1530. http://www.hicountryinn.com

Shaffer's High Sierra Camp. Summer Camp 415-897-0316 summer only 530-862-1500. http://www.highsierracamp.com

Cabins in the Sierras. 10 housekeeping cabins with full kitchen. Swimming pool. 1/3 mile of river front. Open all year. 530.862.1122. http://www.cabinsinthesierras.com/sierracityhwy49

River Haven. 218 Main Street, 3 bedroom, 2 bath or 2 bedroom, 1 bath home. Panoramic view of Yuba River, Sierra Buttes & flowering gardens. Private river access to swimming hole & secluded fishing. 530-862-1549

Travel and Accommodations in the Lakes Basin

Lodging in the Lakes Basin

Packer Lake Lodge. Restaurant & full bar. Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner (except Thursdays). The “Corner Store” carries beer, wine, fishing supplies, soft drinks, candy and other simple needs. Boat rentals. 14 rental cabins. Season: Memorial Day to mid-October. 530-862-1121 or off season 415-921-5943

Sardine Lake Resort. Lakes Basin. Fine dining in a beautiful lakeside setting. 9 housekeeping cabins. Reservations. June - October. 530-862-1196.

Gold Lake Beach Lodge. 14 cabins. Weddings, groups. Reservations. June-October.

530-836-2491

Gold Lake Lodge. Located at the trailheads to the beautiful Feather River Lakes Basin Region, approximately 15 miles from highway 49 at Bassetts and 7 miles from highway 89 at Graeagle. The Lodge has 9 one and two room cabins and a restaurant to provide meals to its cabin guests and outside diners. We can be reached at P.O.Box 308, Graeagle, CA, 96103, 530-836-2350, www.goldlakelodge.com.

Salmon Lake Lodge. Lakes Basin. This historic and charming lodge is located on the lake. 14 housekeeping units with use of boats included. Reservations. June - October. 530-757-1825

Gray Eagle Lodge. Lakes Basin. 18 cabins with maid service. Some with fireplaces. Breakfast and dinner. Large groups. Reservations. May - October. 800-635-8778. http://www.graeaglelodge.com

Travel and Accommodations in the Valley

Lodging in Calpine

Sierra Valley Lodge. Off Hwy 49 between Sierraville & Graeagle. Motel and Lodge open all year. Please call for accommodation availability. 530-994-3367 or 800-858-0322

Lodging in Sierraville

Sierraville Motel. Highway 89. Phones, TV, coffee makers, radios, alarm clocks and hair dryers. all at reasonable rates at the beginning of the beautiful Sierra Valley. 530-994-3751

Canyon Ranch Resort. 622 Old Truckee Road Features seven creekside cabins with kitchens, bathrooms, porches and an on site “pay to fish” trout pond. Open year round. Daily and weekly rates. 530-994-1003. www.canyonranchsierraville.com

Lodging in Loyalton

Golden West Saloon Restaurant and Motel. Main Street. 14 room motel. Restaurant, bar and banquet facilities. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Open all year. 530-993-4467

Country Cookin’ & Country Inn. Main Street. Weekly and monthly rentals. Microwave and refrigerator available. Call ahead. Located next to Country Cookin’ serving breakfast and lunch. Open all year. 530-993-1162

Thank You for Supporting Sierra County Businesses!

Downieville Business Listing

Downieville Community Hall Rental. 530-289-0213

Downieville Grocery. Main Street, Downieville. Groceries, produce, meat and complete deli. Open all year. Downieville Grocery Communications Center - fax, copy machines, and e-mail/internet access. 530-289-3596. http://www.downievillegrocery.com.

La Sierra Beauty Boutique. 309 Main Street. Hair cuts, styles, coloring, weaving, highlights, perm and nail care, pedicures, hot wax hair removal, facials. Massage and tanning. Walk-ins welcome. Open all year. 530-289-3504

Camp Yuba RV Sites and Cabins. Camp Yuba is located six miles east (upstream) of Downieville on Highway 49. Nestled along the North Fork of the Yuba River, Camp Yuba provides the discerning RV camper and cabin visitor with a woodsy, stream side place to stay and relax, fish or explore. RV sites are located next to the river and contain full hook ups. 530.289-3379 or email campyuba@psln.net. http://www.campyuba.com

Sierra Hardware. Main Street, Downieville. General hardware. Hunting and fishing licenses. Fishing tackle, sporting goods, camping supplies. Open all year. 530-289-3582

St. Charles Place. 101 Commercial Street. This is the friendliest saloon in the Sierras. Pool, pinball, darts, poker, and good music. Open all year. 530-289-3237

Grubstake Saloon and Grill. Main Street Downieville. Family dining. Hamburgers, steaks, pasta, homemade soups, Seafood and sandwiches. Beer on tap. Great wine selection. open 11:00am to 9:00pm. Closed Thursdays. 530-289-0289

North Fork Coffee Co. Main Street Downieville. Lattes, espresso, chai, fruit smoothies, java shakes, Italian sodas. Open Monday - Saturday, 7 AM to 2 PM. 530-289-0746

Riverview Pizzeria. Main Street, Downieville. Dining on the Deck. Featuring pizza, hot sandwiches, salads and more. Open all year 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM. 530-289-3540

Sierra Scenes & Such. Photos by Damaris. 506 Main St. 530-289-3489, 530-289-3546

Placer Sierra Bank. Main Street. Full service bank. ATM open all year. 530-289-3204

Sierra Gold. Main Street. Gold nugget jewelry and unique gifts. Mining supplies. Gems, stones, and rocks. Open all year. 530-289-3515

Feather’s Flowers Nursery and Garden. Main Street. Fresh cut flowers, hanging baskets, garden plants, and supplies. Seasonal. 530-289-3386

Leela Plesse. Massage Therapy. 309 Main Street 530-288-1223. Offering experienced, relaxing, theraputic, full body massage in a comfortable, professional, setting. Experienced in multiple techniques. One and one and a half hour sessions available at affordable prices. Call for an appointment.

The Mountain Messenger Newspaper. Main Street. California’s oldest weekly newspaper. An odd little paper featuring news of Sierra County. 530-289-3262

Downieville Realty. 203 Commercial Street, Downieville. 530-289-3610

Downieville Motors. 530-289-3431

Downieville Library. Native Daughters Hall. Open Mon. 9-1, Thu. 12-4. Local history books. Friends of the Library ongoing book sale.

Mountain Harvest Crafts Co-op. Behind Downieville Grocery. Handmade by local artists. Quilts, wreaths, books, holiday crafts, etc. Thu. - Mon 10-5 summer. Fri. Sat. & Sun. all year.

Sierra Disposal. 73980 Industrial Way, Delleker. Serving Sierra County. 530-832-4879.

Sierra County Realty. 334 Main St. 530-289-3377. Fax: 530-289-3678. From Mountain tops to river banks, we sell it all. http://www.sierracountyrealty.com.

The Yuba Theatre and Sierra Arts Council. Home of Sierra Turnpike Players, and offices of Sierra County Arts Council. Music, theatre, dance, school plays, and film. The Banff Mountain Film Festival has two showing in April. 530-289-YUBA.

Tributary Whitewater Tours. Offers exciting whitewater rafting on 36 miles of the North Yuba River from Sierra City to Bullards Bar Reservoir. Season varies with snow pack, but usually from April into July. Class 4 & 5 sections, 1-4 days. Many other rivers available through September. 27 years

of experience. Reservations required. 800/672-3846.email: rafting@whitewatertours.com

Yuba River Storage. 530-289-0402

Sierra Economic Development District. 560 Wall St., Auburn. 530-823-4703. http://www.sedd.org

D-Mac Engineering. Civil engineering and land surveying. Office open Monday through Friday 8-5. Registered engineer since 1978, serving Sierra County since 1988. 530-289-3129

Senator Dave Cox, State Capitol, Sacramento. CA 95814 916-445-5788. email: senator-cox@sen.ca.gov

E Clampus Vitus (Clampers)

Western Sierra Medical Clinic. 530-289-3298.

Western Sierra Dental Clinic. 530-289-3199

Alleghany Business Listing

Underground Gold Miners Museum. Underground Gold Mines of Ca. Museum. Curator, Rae Bell. 530-287-3330

Casey's Place. Main Street Beer, Booze, Burgers since 1870. 530-287-9809ev

Original Sixteen to One Mine. http://www.origsix.com

Indian Valley/Goodyears Bar Business Listing

Indian Valley Outpost. Highway 49, just west of Downieville. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner specials. Gold Rush Burger served on authentic gold pan. Seasonal. 530-289-3630.

Sierra City Business Listing

Sierra City Community Hall rental. 530-862-1580

Sierra County Historical Society. If you enjoy reading stories and learning about the history of Sierra County, you are a great candidate for membership in the Sierra County Historical Society. Come join us to help preserve the history of our county. Dues are: Individual $15, Family $20, Business $30. Pay to the Sierra County Historical Society, PO Box 294, Sierraville, CA 96126. Be sure to visit the Kentucky Mine Museum near Sierra City. Open June through September.

Sierra Country Store. Main Street. Full service deli with meat and produce departments. Gifts, film, souvenirs, video rentals, fishing supplies, and basic household items. Open all year. 530-862-1181

Old Sierra City Hotel. Main St., HWY 49. Historic gold rush restaurant and bar. Open all year. 530-862-1300.

The Buckhorn Restaurant and Lodge. 225 Main street, Sierra City.

Restaurant and Bar, with garden dining by the creek in the summer, and inside dining by a cozy fire in the winter. Steaks, Prawns, Burgers, Vegetarian Entrees, Kids and Senior menu. Homemade Soups and Desserts, Salad Bar. 8 flavor Ice Cream and Sundaes from sedate to sublime! A great place for special events, and private parties up to 100 people. 530-862-1171

The Slade Collection. Main Street. This unique shop is full of antiques, gifts and collectibles. Located in the historic Wells Fargo building. Seasonal. 530-862-0607 e-mail janpat@cwo.com

Sierra Botanicals. Bringing nature into your bath with herbal glycerin soaps and bath salts. Sold locally at Mountain Harvest Co-op in Downieville and Sierra Country Store in Sierra City. Cora Dittrich 530-862-1189

True Nature Landscape. 530-862-1855. Landscape design that sustains and enhances ecological relationships. Services include master planning, site planning, conceptual design, planting design,erosion control plans, regulatory compliance. email: stevee@nccn.net

Williams Cleaning Service. 530-862-1018

Machashaifeh Guitars. 530-862-1855 Fine custom built guitars and restoration since 1968

Sierra Disposal. 530-832-4879

Sierra Skies RV Park. Main Street, Sierra City. Frontage on the North Yuba River. 29 units with full hook-ups. All services available. Seasonal. 530-862-1166. http://sierracity.com. e-mail kirbyranch@netzero.net

Red Moose Cafe. Main Street. This cozy cafe features English and American cooking. Breakfast and lunch. 530-862-1502

Tom’s Snowmobile. Main Street. Full service ski-doo dealership provides snowmobile rental, sales, service, parts, and clothing. Seasonal. 530-862-1128

Sierra Natural Health. Health management consultant. Proactively manage and help repair your health using high-quality products. Supplements, chemical detox/weight management, earth friendly home cleansers, air purification and water purification. Free health assessments. Products 100% guaranteed. http://www.shaklee.net/sierranaturalhealth. 530-862-1189 e-mail:psmherbs@yahoo.com

The Kentucky Mine and Museum. Highway 49. Gift shop offers Gold Country Prints, original art, native gold, artifacts, and jewelry. Books on Gold Country history, geology, and flora. There are summer amphitheater concerts and tours of stamp mill. Open May - September. Weekends in October. 530-862-1310

Miners Emporium. located in the heart of Sierra City, 221 Main Street. Miners, hikers, tourists and locals are all welcome. Take a look at our extensive book collection, everything from historic mining books to the latest trails, including info on the PCT. We have also just become a dealer for the White's Metal detectors. Take a look at the latest models. T-shirts, prints, hobby mining supplies, gold, jewelry...stop by and say Hello! 530-862-0630.

http://www.jk-realestate.com/emporium.htm. koettel@cwo.com

The Yuba River Inn. Main Street. Acrylic paintings by Dolores and Rick Herzberg, including landscapes, animals and English scenes. Art studio. Seasonal. 530-862-1122

Bassett’s Station. Highway 49 and Gold Lake Road. Try the famous Bassett’s Burger at the cafe. Motel, mini-mart with fishing and outdoor supplies. Gas, local logo Ts and sweats, original landscapes by local artists. Copy, fax, ATM, major credit cards. Open all year. 530-862-1297

Herrington's Sierra Pines. Main Street. This restaurant and bar has a fantastic view of the Buttes. Gift shop features souvenirs, woodland puppets and snack bar. Trout pond. Open Apr.-Oct. 530-862-1151 or 800-682-9848 www.herringtonssierrapines.com

Sierra City Library. Main Street. Ore House Building. Open Tue. - Thu. and 2nd Sat. of month 11:30-3:30. Friends of the Library ongoing book sale. Book donations appreciated. 530-862-0210

Big Springs Gardens. 3.5 miles east of Sierra City on Highway 49. 7 acre inner garden, including a one-acre trout pond enlivened with water iris, arrowhead and water lilies and arched bridge. Large meadow with wild flowers, azaleas, rhododendrons. 3 miles of pathways tour through 23 acres of wild gardens. Seasonal Sunday brunch. Facilities available. Commercial kitchen, BBQ, outdoor seating for 80. Weddings, retreats, banquets, garden tours, etc. Reservations required. Don Phillips, P.O. Box 192, Sierra City, 530-862-1333 or 530-862-1450.

Jan Koettel Realty, at 221 Main Street, Sierra City, CA 96125. 530 862-9009, koettel@cwo.com http://www.jk-realestate.com

Dale H. Teubert. Private Conservator, Trust Administration, Fiduciary Services.

530-862-1176

Sorracco’s Saloon. Located at the historic Zerloff Hotel. Featuring a large selection of microbrews and fine wines. Open year round. 530-862-1130

"Z" Salon. Main Street. 530-862-1130

Joel Boucher Construction. General Engineering Contractor. 530-862-1339

Sierra City Water Works, Inc. 530-273-6447 FAX 530-477-6253

Sierra Massage, at the Zerloff. Therapeutic massage & bodywork. Laurel Boggs, CMT. 530-832-0442. By appt only. http://www.sierrayogacenter.com

Yoga Classes. Tuesday’s 5:30PM-7:00PM. Sierra City Community Hall. All levels.Laurel Boggs. 530-832-1442

Lakes Basin Business Listing

High Counry Inn. Bed & Breakfast. Highway 49 and Gold Lake Highway on the Yuba River. Private pond and spectacular view of the Sierra Buttes. 5 luxurious rooms. Gourmet breakfast. This is the place for peace and privacy. Open all year. 530-862-1530 or 800-862-1530. http://www.hicountryinn.com

Packer Lake Lodge. Lakes Basin. Dining room and bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Catering to mountain appetites. The “Corner Store” carries beer, wine, fishing supplies, soft drinks, candy, and other simple needs. Reservations. Closed Tuesdays. May - October. 530-862-1221 or off season 415-921-5943

Sardine Lake Resort. Lakes Basin. Fine dining in a beautiful lakeside setting. Reservations required. May - October. Summer 530-862-1196. Winter 530-862-1363.

Reid Horse and Cattle Company. Gold Lake Road. Ready for spectacular horseback views of pristine lakes? Daily trail rides, wagon trips, and dinner rides are available. Call for information. Seasonal. 530-283-2014.

Gray Eagle Lodge. Lakes Basin. Make reservations. Fine food and bar in beautiful setting. May - October 800-635-8778

Salmon Lake Lodge. This historic and charming lodge is located on the lake. 14 housekeeping cabins, weekly rentals, and boat use included. Open June-October. 530-757-1825

Gold Lake Lodge. Rusitc mountain lodge with 9 cabins located in the heart of the Lakes Basin. Heary meals included. Open mid June through mid September. $100 to $200 a night. 530-836-2350. PO Box 308 Graeagle, CA. 96103. http://www.goldlakelodge.com

Gold Lake Beach Lodge. 14 cabins. Wddings, groups. Reservations June through October. 530-836-2491

Calpine Business Listing

Sierra Valley Lodge. Great food in a relaxing setting. Located just a short drive from most campgrounds. Large meeting room is available. Open all year. 530-994-3367 or 800-858-0322

Sierra Valley Realty. Located in Calpine, 30 miles north of Truckee in Sierra County, Northern California. Real Estate in the Sierra Valley. Kathy Freschi - Owner/Realtor. Phone:530-994-3788

Griffin Plumbing

Remodel, service, troubleshooting and repair. Over 20 years of experience. Servicing all of Sierra County. license # 714450. Phone 530-994-3212

GoneBatty / Harvey Farms. The farm is open anytime. Call 530-994-3617 in advance for a tour of the coated sheep. Their wool is used by hand spinner and weavers. Lots of wool products available. http://www.battlady.com

Sattley Business Listing

Sattley Cash Store and Post Office. Building is of historic interest. Sodas, snacks, beer, bait. HWY 49 & 89. Open all year. 530-994-3326

Sierraville Business Listing

Sierraville Service and Country Store. Highway 89. Groceries, liquor, ice, fishing and hunting licenses, tackle and bait, propane, gasoline, diesel. Animal farm and petting zoo. Open all year. 530-994-3387

Sid’s Place. Highway 89. Beer, wine, snacks. Open all year. 530-994-3339

Los Dos Hermanos. 530-994-1058

Sierraville Superstop. 630 S. Lincoln Street, Highway 89, 1 mile south of Sierraville. Gasoline, mini-mart, groceries, liquor, fresh produce, espresso, fuel, Lotto. Open all year. 530-994-3820

Loyalton Business Listing

Coldwell Banker Chandler Real Estate, Betty Thatcher, sales associate. Specializing in Loyalton and Sierra Valley Properties. Office (530) 832-1234. www.graeaglecoldwellbanker.com. Home (530) 993-1707 e-mail: thatcher@psln.com

Buck’s TV and Appliance. Main Street. Sales and service, audio and video. Free delivery. Open all year. 530-993-4265

J and K Studio. Computer repair, electronics and video rentals/games. 411 Second Street Loyalton . 530-993-6030

Happy Hearts Quilts & Collectibles. 411 Second Street, Suite B. Days open: Monday-Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm. Tuesdays 10:00am to 8:00pm. We offer quilting supplies and fabrics, plus quilting lessons and a group get together on Wednesday nights from 6:30pm to 9:00pm. We also have beautiful gifts including original jewelry by local artist Lori Wright. 530-993-4025

Country Cookin’ Restaurant. Main Street. Featuring the best omelets in the world! Breakfast and lunch. Open all year. 530-993-1162

Hennessy House Flag Poles. America's number one resource for hand crafted, old style, wooden poles. Great for historic preservation, traditional grounds and home, and national, state and local public sites. http://www.woodenflagpoles.com 800-285-2122.

K.G.W.A. "Waterworks" Inc. PO Box 677. Roads, dams, housepads and clearing. Equipment available: water tender, dump truck, D 6 Cat, brush rake, grader and 966 loader. 530-993-4157. Cell 530-251-6411 FAX 530-993-1386 Pager 530-831-8530.

Country Gentleman Barber Shop. Main Street 530-993-4511

Golden West Saloon. Main Street. Our menu is bigger and better than ever. Large portions and fair prices. Fine wines and favorite libations. We have everything from cheese sandwiches to prime rib. Banquet facilities. Open all year. 530-993-4467

Leonard’s Loyalton Market. Main Street. A full service grocery and deli. Camping supplies, drugs, sundries, and film. Weekly ads and coupon books in the USA ad program. Open all year. 530-993-4397

Loyalburger. Take out burgers and other fast foods. Open all year, closed Tuesdays. Call for hours. 530-993-0206

Loyalton Pharmacy and Flower Shop. Main Street. A complete pharmacy and full service floral service. We can wire flowers. Open all year. 530-993-4343

Main Street Realty. 600 Main Street 530-993-4065. www.sierrarealty.com

Senior Thrift Store. Clothes, bedding, furniture, books, etc. Open year round. Closed Mondays and weekends. 530-993-1948

Sierra Booster. A pictorial, home-owned newspaper. 530-993-4379 http://www.psln.com/jbuck/sierrabooster.html

Sierra Valley Community Library. Tuesday 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Wedneday 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. Friday 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Saturday 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. Friends of the Library ongoing book sale. Internet access.

Sierra Valley Home Center. Main Street. A convenient home center offering lumber, building supplies and general hardware. Open all year. 530-993-4331

Valley Video. Videos, gifts, and skateboard equipment. Open all year. 530-993-4194

White’s Sierra Station. Main Street. Gas, propane, tires, oil, batteries and chains. ASE Certified Master Technician does light automotive repair Monday thru Friday. Fully stocked convenience store makes Sub Sandwiches to order. Hot food, beer, soda and snacks. 24 hour gas with credit card. Open all year. Monday - Saturday 6:00am-9:00pm. Sunday 7:00am-8:00pm. 530-993-1212

Hair Faire. Loyalton. 530-993-4678

Plumas Bank. 604 Main Street, Loyalton530-993-0758 Rachelle Ramelli, VP/Branch Manager rachelle.ramelli@plumasbank.com. Plumas Bank,Northeastern California’s full service community bank has served the financial needs of local families, businesses and the agribusiness community since 1980. The Bank provides traditional deposit, lending, mortgage and commercial banking products as well as mutual funds and insurance services.

James R. Crippen. Architect. 530-993-0243.

Timberline Auto Parts. Main Street. 530-993-0132.

Sierra Valley District Hospital. 700 Third Street. 530-993-1225.

Garen Photography. Main Street. 530-993-4535.

Gary Steingrebe. CPA. Main Street. 530-993-1139.

Hood Disposal. Highway 49. 530-993-1410.

Toddler Towers Child Care Center. Main Street. 530-993-4391

Loyalton Social Hall rental. 530-993-6750.

Lee D. Walker, D.D.S. Dentist. 702 Main St. 230-993-4728

Dining and Shopping in Alleghany

Casey's Place. Main Street Beer, Booze, Burgers since 1870. 530-287-9809ev

Original Sixteen to One Mine, Inc. Oldest active Gold Mining Corporation in the United States. The mine is famous for its gold and quartz gemstone, which is eagerly sought by jewelers. Gold Sales offers specimens, jewelry, slab and cabochons by appt. only. 530-287-3223 Email: corp@origsix.com

Undergroung Gold Miners Museum. Offer two-hour tours of the Sixteen to One Mine- Memorial Day through Labor Day Sat & Sun 1 pm. Price $60 per person, childer under 18 half price. Do not show up unprepared! This is an active gold mine. Sierra Gold in Downieville, local chambers of commerce or by calling 530-287-333-. Museum Gift Shop and Educational Displays open to the public free of charge seasonally, weekends 1 pm to 5 pm. 356 Main Street Email: info@undergroundgold.com

Dining in Indian Valley

Indian Valley Outpost Store. Restaurant and bar. Seasonal 530-289-3630

Dining and Shopping in Downieville

Downieville Grocery. Main Street, Downieville. Groceries, produce, meat, video rental and fishing supplies. Open all year. Downieville Grocery Communications Center - fax, copy machines, and e-mail/internet access. 530-289-3596. http://www.downievillegrocery.com.

The Gallows Cafe & Pizzeria. Main Street, Downieville. Dining on the Deck. Featuring pizza, hot sandwiches, salads and more. Open all year 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM. 530-289-3540

49 Wines. 200 Main Street Offering the best in the Sierra Foothills. Taste the Gold in the Mother Lode. 530-289-2782

Yuba Expedition Bike Shop and Shuttle Service. Hwy 49 & Main Street 530-289-3010

La Sierra Beauty Boutique. 309 Main Street. We offer services for men, women, and children. Hair cuts, color, perms, spa manicures, spa pedicures, retreat facials and massage. Open Mon-Sat all year. Walk-ins welcome. 530-289-3504

Mountain Harvest Crafts Co-op. Behind Downieville Grocery. Handcrafted gift items by local artists. Open Summer: Fri-Mon Winter: Sat

St. Charles Place. 101 Commercial Street. This is the friendliest saloon in the Sierras. Pool, pinball, darts, poker, and good music. Open all year. 530-289-3237

Sierra Hardware. Main Street, Downieville. General hardware. Hunting and fishing licenses. Fishing tackle, sporting goods, camping supplies. Open all year. 530-289-3582

Sierra Gold. Main Street. Gold nugget jewelry and unique gifts. Mining supplies. Gems, stones, and rocks. Open all year. 530-289-3515

Stevenson Landscape Photography. 102 Lavazzola Road. 530-289-3682.

Feather’s Flowers Nursery and Garden. Main Street. Fresh cut flowers, hanging baskets, garden plants, and supplies. Seasonal. 530-289-3386

Downieville Outfitters. 208 Main Street

Downieville Motors. 530-289-3431

Mountain Harvest Crafts Co-op. Behind Downieville Grocery. Handmade by local artists. Quilts, wreaths, books, holiday crafts, etc. Thu. - Mon 10-5 summer. Fri. Sat. & Sun. all year.

Dining and Shopping in Sierra City

Mountain Creek Restaurant & Buckhorn Tavern. 225 Main street, Sierra City.

Red Moose Cafe. Main Street Full breakfast and lunch menu in our cozy cabin-like cafe. Famous for our homemade cinnamon rolls, frish Olde English fish & chips and juicy burgers. Beer & wine available and outdoor patio dining. Open all year. 530-862-1502

Sorracco’s Saloon. Located at the historic Zerloff Hotel. Featuring a large selection of microbrews and fine wines. Open year round. 530-862-1130

Old Sierra City Hotel. 212 Main Street. Historic Hotel. 4 remodeled rooms w/full bathroms. Restaurant serving dinner and full bar. Enjoy home cooked meals in the "Gary Webster Memorial" dining room. Open year round. 530-862-1300

Sierra Country Store. Main Street. Full service deli with meat and produce departments. Roasted Chicken, Ribs & Roasts, Pizza, soup, chili and double burgers. Fishing supplies 530-862-1560

The Slade Collection. 231 Main Street. Antiques, Gifts and Collectables. Open May through mid-October 530-862-0607

Tom's Snowmobile. Main Street Seasonal 530-862-1128

Sierra Botanicals. Bringing nature into your bath with herbal glycerin soaps and bath salts. 530-862-1189

Sierra Natural Health. Proactively, manage and help repair you health using high quality products. Supplements, chemical detox/weight management, earth friendly home cleaners, air purification and water purification. Free health assessments. Shaklee Independent Distributor. 530-862-1189 www.shaklee.net/SierraNaturalHealth

Food and Dining in the Lakes Basin

Packer Lake Lodge. Lakes Basin. Dining room and bar. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Catering to mountain appetites. The "Corner Store" carries beer, wine, fishing supplies, soft drinks, candy, and other simple needs. Reservations. Closed Tuesdays. May - October. 530-862-1221 or off season 415-921-5943

Sardine Lake Resort. Lakes Basin. Fine dining in a beautiful lakeside setting. Reservations required. May - October. 530-862-1196

Gold Lake Lodge. Rustic mountain lodge with 9 cabins located in the heart of the Lakes Basin. Hearty meals included. Open mid June to mid September. $100 to $200 per night. 530-836-2350. http://www.goldlakelodge.com

Dining and Shopping in the Valley

Sid’s Place. Highway 89. Beer, wine, snacks. Open all year. 530-994-3339

Los Dos Hermanos. Highway 89, downtown Sierraville. Fine mexican dining. Beer and Cocktails. 530-994-1058

Crossroads Feed and Ranch Supply. 530-994-3326

Round Up Cafe. 530-994-3704

Sierra Valley Lodge. Main Street in Calpine. 12 individual rooms with bath. Restaurant and bar with banquet facilities. Open all year for dinner. 530-994-3367 or 800-858-0322.

Sierraville Superstop & Grocery. 630 S. Licoln Street in Loyalton. "The" gasoline, diesel, propane, grocery, fresh produce, liquor, beer & wine, pies, pizza, Lotto, Jelly Belly & more store. Open all year. 5:30am to 10:30pm. 530-994-3820.

Country Cookin' Restaurant. Main Street in Loyalton. Featuring the best omelets in the world! Breakfast and lunch. Open all year. 530-993-1162.

Leonard's Loyalton Market. Main Street. A full service grocery and deli. Camping supplies, drugs, sundries and film. Weekly ads and coupon books in the USA ad program. Open all year. 530-993-4397.

White's Sierra Station, Inc. 508 Main Street in Loyalton. Hours: Monday - Saturday 6:00am to 9:00pm. Sundays 7:00am to 8:00pm. Our fully stocked convenience store makes sub sandwiches and has a wonderful variety of hot foods on the food island. Parrot Ice and Pepsi Freeze. 530-993-1212.

Loyalburger. Take out burgers and other fast foods. Open all year, closed Tuesdays. Call for hours. 530-993-0206

Sierra Hot Springs. Sierraville 530-994-3773

Sattley Cash Store. Hwy 49 and county road A23. 530-994-3326

Timberline Auto Parts & Power Equipment.712 Main Street. For the part of you that promised you'd never compromise. Phone/Fax 530-993-4990

Buck's TV and Appliance. Main Street Loyalton 530-993-4265

Happy Heart Quilts & Collectibles. 411 Second Street, Suite B. 530-993-4299

Loyalton Pharmacy and Flower Shop. Main Street Loyalton. 530-993-4343

Sierra Valley Home Center. Main Street Loyalton. 530-993-4331

Senior Thrift Store. Closed Mondays and Weekends. Open year round. 530-993-1948

Sierra County Outdoor Recreation

Tahoe National Forest

http://www.r5.fs.fed.us/tahoe/

Tahoe National Forest, Downieville Ranger District

http://www.r5.fs.fed.us/tahoe/dvrd/tnfdownievillerec.html

Fish and Game

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/

Recreation in the Mountains

The Mountains of Sierra County offer year-round recreation, rugged scenic beauty, and a wealth of cultural attractions and historic sites.

Natural Attractions:

The Middle Yuba River forms the southwestern border of Sierra County. This untamed river provides exceptional fishing and beautiful views. Highway 49 parallels the North Yuba River from the bridge at Indian Valley to near Yuba Pass, giving recreationists easy access to sight-seeing, fishing, camping, and swimming.

On the Trail:

Hiking, biking, and backpacking: Easy to extreme level hiking trails abound in this region of Sierra County. A fully accessible trail passes gently through 500 feet of terrain from the Fiddle Creek Campground to the North Yuba River just off Highway 49. The Saddleback Trail climbs up mountainous terrain to the Saddleback Lookout where spectacular views can be seen and photographed. Lavezzola Road in Downieville accesses moderate to very technical mountain bike trails. This nationally recognized trail system has been featured in mountain biking magazines as having some of the best and most scenic trails in the world. The Jackson Meadows Reservoir area features the Woodcamp Creek Interpretive Trail, which provides an educational and moderately difficult hike with 18 points of interest spelled out in a brochure. The Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed from the Jackson Meadow trail head.

Bike Trails:

Ride the epic trails. The trails are sublime and seem endless, climbing from rivers to peaks, and snaking invisibly through trees. You can ride for hours in places that are truly “quiet” and “empty”. This is a rare fortune, possibly worth more than any gold taken from these hills. In Downieville, ride the North Yuba Trail with Halls Ranch and Fiddle Creek Ridge, and the Downie River Trail and 1st , 2nd, and 3rd Divide trails.

Off-Road Vehicles:

The Lafayette Ridge OHV Trail near Alleghany leads adventurers through heavy brush that gradually opens up to a panoramic view of the Middle Yuba River. Many of the off-road vehicle trails in the area were once the trails of miners, traders, and mule teams.

Summer Fun:

Boating, fishing & swimming: Lakes in the Mountain Region of Sierra County offer a variety of activities. Jackson Meadows is a very popular, highly prized for fishing, swimming, camping, wildlife viewing, water skiing, jet skiing, and sailing. There are over 130 campsites, 5 group campsites, and a disposal station available here. Independence Lake offers fee-use camping and fishing in a more secluded setting. Rivers and streams provide exceptional fishing and swimming. The Lafayette Ridge OHV Trail ends near Kanaka Creek and the Middle Yuba River where stream fishing is at its best.

Camping:

The Fiddle Creek Campground near the North Yuba River bridge is easily accessed from Highway 49 and has excellent river access. Rocky Rest Campground is less developed but also offers access to the river for swimming and fishing. Many additional campsites are available throughout the mountains in a variety of settings and levels of access.

Gold Panning:

Gold panning is open to the public at the Union Flat campground, and in Downieville just behind the Riverview Pizzeria. Gold pans and panning instructions are available at the Sierra Gold Shop in Downieville.

Scenic Beauty:

This region of Sierra County is covered with evergreen forests and oak woodlands. Rugged river canyons cut by the Middle and North Yuba Rivers illustrate the power of nature to carve solid rock. The canyon walls and forested hillsides provide dramatic backdrops to the rivers and waterfalls.

Wildflowers and Fall Colors:

In spring, dogwood blooms profusely along the banks of rivers and massive patches of monkey flowers invade the wet seeps of canyon walls. Scotch broom adds brilliant patches of yellow. The dogwood puts on a second display in the fall with vibrant colored leaves of fiery orange and deep pink.

Wildlife:

Hunting: Deer, pigeon, quail and deer hunting are available on public lands. Please contact the California Department Fish and Game for information about hunting seasons. 530-227-2242.

Viewing: At dusk, bridges in Downieville are likely to produce bats and swallows foraging for food. Kingfishers and osprey also feed in the vicinity. The Empire Creek Trail near Downieville passes through large areas of older forests inhabited by pileated woodpeckers, northern goshawks, pine marten, and California spotted owl. In the spring, the Downieville deer herd moves to the higher elevations to fawn. Jackson Meadows Reservoir entertains broods of Canada geese, mergansers, mallards, and green-winged teal. Several meadows offer good evening views of mule deer and bald eagles visit in the late fall. Black bears, foxes, and racoons are also present but not so visible.

Recreation in the Lakes Basin

The Lakes Basin Recreation area of Sierra County features some of the most pristine lakes in North America. Warm summer camp-outs and winter sports await visitors in this Sierra County wonderland.

Natural Attractions:

The craggy peaks, waterfalls, and rivers of the Sierra Buttes are a spectacular site, especially in the winter and spring when adorned with a tapestry of snow.

Glacially formed lakes add to the unique beauty of the landscape and offer recreation in its most luxuriously primitive form.

Out on the Trail:

Hiking, backpacking, mountain biking and horse packing in this region are what dreams are made of. The Pacific Crest Trail can be reached from Packer Saddle or the Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail and also at Loves Falls just north of Sierra City. The Lakes Basin Campground contains three trail-heads that provide access to the many lakes in this area. Sand Pond Interpretive Trail describes the flora and fauna of a riparian habitat and is accessible to wheelchairs. It provides a wonderful experience for those who cannot hike the typical mountainous trail.

Off-Road Vehicles:

The Lakes Basin Recreation Area contains numerous off-road vehicle trails from moderate to most difficult. The trails pass through a variety of terrain and offer fishing, wildlife viewing, and exceptional scenery.

Resorts:

Small resorts tucked in among trees and lakes offer comfort and amenities for those wishing to forgo the “sleeping bag.” Resorts also provide different levels of services such as prepared meals and housecleaning. Please see the lodging section of this guide for more information.

Fishing and Boating:

Fishing licenses are available at Bassetts Station, Highway 49 and Gold Lake Highway in Sierra city, and Sierra Hardware on Main Street in Downieville. The unspoiled lakes in this region are highly prized by fly fishermen and those who prefer to fish from the shore or small boats. Over fifteen lakes provide ample space for recreationists to enjoy solitude and comfort. Boating is restricted to small boats with small or no motors.

Camping:

Campgrounds offer several levels of amenities including boating, swimming, fishing, piped and stream water, camping stoves, travel trailer spaces, and sites for horse trailers. The Wild Plum Campground, located just east of Sierra City, has a beautiful waterfall as an added attraction. Nearby Loves Falls is also beautiful and easily accessible.

Winter Fun:

Purchase Sno-park permits at Bassett’s Station or at Sierraville Service and Country Store, or call 530-324-4442.Winter is a beautiful time to explore the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. Miles of groomed roads and trails offer excellent cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Bassett’s Station at the intersection of Highway 49 and Gold Lake Road is a favorite staging area for snowmobilers and cross country skiers. It is complete with a general store, cafe, restrooms, and gas station. Gold Lake Road is the main access route to many miles of trails. The trip to Graeagle is a favorite among local snowmobilers. Yuba Pass Snow Park, 13 miles north of Sierra City, accesses trails that reach the Little Truckee Summit staging area and Jackson Meadows reservoir. Tubing, sledding, snowshoeing, and snow camping round out the winter fun in this large snowpark facility.

Scenic Beauty:

The drive from Sierra City to Yuba Pass provides a kaleidoscope of terrain and plant communities. There are several excellent views of the Sierra Buttes from Gold Lake Road and along Highway 49. During the winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers have a unique opportunity to explore a winter wonderland made more beautiful by the rugged mountainous backdrop.

Wildflowers:

When the snow melts, the Lakes Basin area abounds in a variety of wildflowers. Orange masses of lilies bloom in the wet creek drainages and wild azaleas are scattered about the hillsides. At the summit of Yuba Pass, magenta colored penstemon and lacy white yampa decorate the landscape. In the marshy areas, marigolds, elephant heads, corn lilies, and several species of monkey flowers flourish in the spring sun.

Wildlife:

Viewing: The Sand Pond Interpretive Trail features wheel chair accessible wooden boardwalks that follow fern-lined paths and cross stretches of shallow, clear water. This trail near Sardine Lake Campground is barrier-free and provides viewing opportunities of a wetland that has been enlarged by a family of beavers. The path also allows visitors to view trout and summer mallard broods close up. Bald eagles and osprey fish on the many lakes, and pine martens forage in nearby meadows. The Yuba Pass area provides excellent bird-watching opportunities. The Wild Plum Loop Trail meanders through riparian hardwood communities that provide a rich birding experience.

Hunting: Deer, pigeon, and quail hunting in Sierra County are available on Forest Service lands. Please contact the California Department of Fish and Game for information about hunting seasons 530-227-2242.

Recreation in the Valley

Panoramic views and miles of open space highlight this region of Sierra County. Country charm and friendly people combine to make this spot ideal for family recreation in summer and winter.

Natural Attractions:

Sierra Valley is the largest alpine valley in North America. It is part of the continental crust that was dropped by the same faulting that raised the Sierra Nevada. The Overlook on Highway 49, east of Yuba Pass, provides a spectacular panoramic view of this beautiful valley and surrounding mountains.

On the Trail:

Hiking: Trails in the Sierra Valley area range from easy walks to rigorous climbs through thick conifer forests. The Cottonwood Overlook Trail is light to moderately difficult and provides panoramic views of the valley in several places along the trail. Dedicated hikers can climb the steep Badenaugh Trail up to the Babbit Peak lookout for an outstanding panoramic view of the local area of eastern California and western Nevada. Mountain bikers and equestrians share this trail with hikers.

OHV Trails:

The Bear Valley Loop OHV Trail near Loyalton is 18 miles of pure exhilaration and scenic beauty. The trail is open late spring to fall.

Summer Fun:

Lunch and Learn: The Cottonwood Creek Botanical Trail uses trail markers and a corresponding brochure to identify and describe trees and other plants on this easy walk. The Kyburz Flat interpretive area on Henness Pass Road east of Highway 89 explains the history of three different peoples who inhabited this beautiful mountain meadow starting 2,000 years ago. Maps and brochures are available free of charge. The Donner Camp Picnic Site located 5 miles south of the Sierra County line along Highway 89 looks out onto a meadow where members of the Donner Party camped through the winter of 1846. The picnic area and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Camping:

There are numerous campgrounds from Yuba Pass to Truckee along Highways 49 and 89. These campgrounds range from single sites to large group areas with parking lots that can accommodate horse trailers as well as snowmobile trailers. Some campgrounds are near rivers and streams; some are at the edges of alpine lakes; and some are tucked into the forest and meadow lands. Groups of up to 50 people can be accommodated at the Prosser Group Campground, which offers swimming and cooking stoves as well as space for trailers.

Winter Fun:

Winter trails for skiers, snowmobilers, and snowshoers wind through valleys and hills and around beautiful alpine lakes. The Little Truckee Summit area located between Sierraville and Truckee on Highway 89 provides six winter trails, restrooms, and plenty of parking. From here you can follow groomed trails up to the Gold Lakes Recreation Area. There is also excellent skiing on Henness Pass Road east of Highway 89. The Treasure Mountain Loop in the Little Truckee Summit area provides groomed trails for both snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. Other groomed trails in this area include the Pass Creek Loop, which leads to Jackson Meadows Reservoir, and the Prosser Creek Connection Trail, which travels from the Summit along Prosser Creek downhill into Nevada County, where it ends near Prosser Lake.

Scenic Beauty:

The scenery in Sierra Valley varies from conifer and aspen forests, to drier woodland forests, to a large valley covered with crops, pastures, and wildflowers in the spring. Smaller valleys and meadows are laced with meandering streams. Old platy-barked ponderosa pine trees are a special feature in the landscape along the upper stretches of Highway 89 near Truckee.

Wildflowers:

Fields of blue and orange flowers flow with the breeze during springtime in the valley. Along the waterways, many marshland plants and several species of buttercups paint a picture of color and serenity.

Wildlife:

Fishing and Hunting: The Sierra Valley has more German brown trout, mile for mile, than anywhere else in California. Smithneck Creek is a favorite among fishermen seeking this elusive trout. This area is also home to Nevada mule deer, grouse, chucker, and California mountain quail. Please contact the California Department of Fish and Game for information about hunting seasons.

Viewing: The Carman Valley north of Calpine has 30 to 40 acres of vernal habitat during spring and early summer. This area is an excellent place to view nesting waterfowl, including wood ducks and shorebirds. Steel Bridge, located over the headwaters of the Feather River, provides an opportunity to view Canadian geese, great blue heron, sandhill cranes, numerous ducks and songbirds. This is private property, so please do not explore on foot. Antelope Valley is an excellent place to observe deer fawning areas. The Smithneck Creek area off Smithneck Road travels through extensive aspen groves with scenes of beaver activity–dams, stick lodges, and beaver-logged timber. Kyburz Marsh off Highway 89 is approximately 200 acres and provides wildlife viewing for waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, numerous species of hawks, osprey, and bald eagles. Several waterfowl nesting islands are located within the area.

Sierra County Historic Sites and Museums

The Sierra County Historical Society offers residents and visitors alike a unique opportunity to appreciate our history. Here in the heart of the California Gold Rush Northern Mines region, the Society provides many archival, educational and recreational services from its headquarters at the Kentucky Mine in Sierra City:

Cultural Attractions in Downieville

Museums:

The Downieville Museum dates back to 1852 when it was built as a store by Chinese emigrants. Today it contains informative collections that depict life here from gold rush days to the present. For guided tours call 530-289-3423. The Foundry building in Downieville was built in 1855. Tours are offered by reservation only 530-289-1020. It features a detailed model of turn-of-the-century Downieville as well as logging and mining exhibits.

Theater:

The Yuba Theater was built in 1940 as a movie theater. Today it has 188 seats and is the only fixed-seat theater in Sierra County. It is the home of Sierra Turnpike Players and also houses the business office of Sierra County Arts Council. Year round entertainment at the theater includes music, theater, dance, school plays, and film. The Banff Mountain Film Festival has two showings in April. 530-289-YUBA.

Historic Sites:

Main Street in Downieville is narrow, full of character, and lined with trees, wooden boardwalks, and historic buildings. Downieville is considered the least changed of all the gold rush towns in California. The Gallows in Downieville was only used once but it remains today as a reminder of justice in the gold rush era. The Goodyear’s Bar Schoolhouse was built in approximately 1872, and is still used as a church meeting house and community gathering place. This historic town dates back to the 1850s.

Self-Guided Tours:

Downieville, Sierra City, and Forest City offer self-guided walking tour brochures that detail their history and sites.

Cultural Attractions in Alleghany

Museums:

The Underground Gold Miners Museum offers tours of the famous Sixteen to One Mine which has been in operation for over 100 years. Tours are by reservation only. 530-287-3330 or visit www.gold.miners.museum.com. Gold, specimen, and jewelry sales are offered by the Sixteen to One by appointment only, weekdays. 530-287-3540. http://www.ugmm.org or http://www.origsix.com

Cultural Attractions in Forest City

Museums:

The tiny town of Forest City is it’s own museum. Most buildings date from the 1800s. To arrange a tour of the museum, call 530-287-3413. Also, pick up a walking tour map at the mail box in front of the Forest City Dance Hall.

Events:

The Forest City Homecoming in July features a parade, dance, and lots of