Blue Flag Iris in Sierra Valley

Sierra Valley Preserve

Photo by Vanessa Vasquez

Welcome to the Sierra Valley Preserve — a year-round birding and wildlife hotspot nestled at the headwaters of the Middle Fork of the Feather River. This unique preserve supports the highest diversity and abundance of birds in the entire Sierra Nevada and offers the only public access to Sierra Valley’s expansive wetland and meadow ecosystems. Visitors can explore scenic overlooks, quiet trails, and a thoughtfully curated Nature Center. The Westside Wetlands Trail (2.0 miles) links the West Entrance to the North Entrance and Nature Center, while the East Entrance provides a short, accessible trail to a stunning wildlife viewing platform. The preserve is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful, educational outdoor experience. Dogs are not allowed.

Trail Difficulty

  • Check box with checkmark in it Easy

Trail details

  • Check box with checkmark in it Length: 2 miles
  • Check box with checkmark in it Route type: Loop

Best Season to Hike

  • Check box with checkmark in it April - May
  • Check box with checkmark in it June - October
  • Check box with checkmark in it November - March

Region

Southeast Plumas

Address

495 Beckwourth-Calpine Road (Co. Road A23)
Beckwourth, CA , CA 96129

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Managing agency contact

Explore nearby in Southeast Plumas
Upcoming events nearby
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Western Pacific Railroad Museum
700 Western Pacific Way

Join the Western Pacific Railroad Museum for the 2026 Western Pacific Celebration on Saturday, September 26!

Beckwourth
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Whittemore Family Farm
4118 Valle Vista Dr. Segundo Rd. A-23

Head out to our farm and visit a wonderful pumpkin patch! Open every Sat/Sun through October. We've got games, a bounce house, face painting, bbq, baked goods, and pumpkins!

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Portola
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Western Pacific Railroad Museum
700 Western Pacific Way

Pumpkin Patch Express trains will be held October 18-19 and 25-26, Saturdays and Sundays. Trains will depart hourly from 1 pm to 5pm.

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Dining & entertainment nearby
Quincy269 Main St
530-283-3528
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Healthy and flavorful bakery and deli foods often made with local ingredients. A perfect picnic supply stop!

Graeagle601 Graeagle Johnsville Rd
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Located in the scenic town of Graeagle, CA, just an hour from Lake Tahoe, Ronin Fermentation Project is a must-visit for beer lovers and adventurers.

Blairsden Graeagle67007 California Highway 70
(530) 394-0940
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A 15-barrel brewery tucked away in the tall pines. Bring the whole family and relax, play games, and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Shopping nearby
Crescent Mills161 SOBRERO WAY
(530) 394-5010
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Handcrafted Goat Milk Soap and Bath Products, all locally made gifts and jewelry.

Quincy1947 Lee Road
(530) 283-0924
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Full line of construction supplies , hardware and lumber

Crescent Mills15771 CA 89 Next to Crescent Country

Every product reflects a story of craftsmanship, natural beauty, and legacy—made to be used, and passed down. Open Dec. 4- 21 Thur- Sun. 11 am - 4pm.