Spring in Plumas County
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Plumas County– the valleys are green and verdant, rivers are rushing, and snow is still on the high mountains. Spring weather is pleasant and perfect for daytime activities like hiking or a morning bird walk. Nights are cool enough for cozy sweaters, hot chocolate, and curling up with a good book. Read on for our top picks for your spring getaway in the Sierra Nevada!
Photo by Betty Bishop
Yellow-headed Black Bird in Sierra Valley.
Photo by Betty Bishop
Photo by Betty Bishop
Birding by boat
Photo by Betty Bishop
Birding
Plumas County offers some of the best birding opportunities in Northern California with everything from waterfowl, waders, songbirds, and raptors. Spring is THE time to visit if you are a bird enthusiast. Plumas County is located along the Pacific Flyway and has a diversity of habitats including expansive wetlands and meadows that are filled with bird life each spring.
by Vanessa Vasquez
Mountain lady slippers near Spanish Creek in Quincy.
by Vanessa Vasquez
by Mike Nellor
Cobra lilies at the Butterfly Valley Botanical Area
by Mike Nellor
by Vanessa Vasquez
Wild ginger
by Vanessa Vasquez
Spring Wildflowers
Colorful shows of wildflowers can be seen along roads, lakeshores, craggy canyons, and creekside trails in late Spring. Plumas County hosts a tremendous diversity of wildflowers due to the range in elevation and varied landscapes types. From carnivorous plants to memorable mountain peonies, Plumas County probably has a flower you haven’t met yet.
photo by Jeff Titcomb
Water flow below the dam of Round Valley Reservoir
photo by Jeff Titcomb
Photo by FRC Outdoor Rec Leadership
Kayaking the North Fork of the Feather River
Photo by FRC Outdoor Rec Leadership
Kayaking and Whitewater
The kayaking and rafting season in Plumas County runs approximately from January to April or May, depending on the flow. Spring snowmelt and rain swells creeks and rivers making it an ideal time for whitewater enthusiasts.
Spring Hiking
Plumas County’s beautiful shoulder seasons and long dry summers mean hiking can be enjoyed most months. Spring is a lovely time to hike trails in the Feather River Canyon and lower elevation trails if there is still snow. Expect verdant green meadows, snow-capped mountain views, and great wildlife watching. Here are our favorite spring hikes
Visit a Museum (rainy day idea)
Plumas County is a wonderful destination for those interested in California’s history. From trains to natural history, to indigenous heritage, the museums across the County are rich in interesting exhibits. If the weather isn’t ideal for hiking, or if you have a curious kid, stop by one of these wonderful museums to learn and explore.
- Indian Valley Museum
- Chester Lake Almanor Museum
- Collins Pine Museum
- Portola Railroad Museum
- Plumas County Museum
- Plumas-Eureka State Park Museum
Photo by Carrie Hawthorne
Traditional “longboard” skiing at the historic Eureka Ski Bowl
Photo by Carrie Hawthorne
Photo by Samantha Rose
Skier Climbing Lassen Peak
Photo by Samantha Rose
Spring Skiing
Because snow in the Sierra is precious, we always hope for a good Spring ski season. If you are a backcountry skier or snowshoe hiker, some of the higher elevation locations in Plumas County can make for very fun spring trips. Try the Bucks Lake Wilderness, Plumas-Eureka State Park, the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Places to Stay
Destination lodging for you summer vacation in the Lost Sierra
Five rustic cabins sit on the water’s edge of the lake while three sit nestled in the trees. Cabins vary in size, sleeping from two to eight guests.
Big Springs Resort is among the tall pines with a quiet serene atmosphere. Family and pet friendly near Hamilton Branch.
Ada’s Garden Cottages are a gorgeous oasis hideaway in the center of historic downtown Quincy with full kitchens and cozy-custom-artful-architecture.
Just steps from the Feather River, Family Friendly Campground w/ everything you need for a relaxing & exciting vacation. Bring the family, toys & pets
Rustic cabins overlooking Bucks Lake! Rent boats, waverunners, kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards, and more from our Marina.
Located in the heart of downtown Quincy. Walk to shops, restaurants, brewery, and live entertainment. Daily and extended stay rates.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a two week vacation, Knotty Pine Resort and Marina offers you an opportunity to leave the city behind!
Located in the heart of Plumas County, Quincy California. Easy to find right off the highway with beautiful mountain views. Open 24/7!
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a two week vacation, Knotty Pine Resort and Marina offers you an opportunity to leave the city behind!
We’re not a five star accommodation but we are the jewel of the Sierra Mountains. Clean, comfortable and with many amenities.
Full hook-up RV spaces located in downtown Quincy along the beautiful Feather River quietly amongst the riverbank and tress.
Quaint, beautiful, family-friendly and pet friendly cottages in the Feather River Canyon with access to the Feather River.
A family owned/operated resort since 1928, featuring 9 cabins, 25 RV sites, marina, cafe and a commitment to providing an amazing vacation experience
Lake Almanor CC Vacation 4 Bdrm, 2 Ba Sleeps 10 2 Game Rooms, Free 90M WIFI Bedding, Towels, Soaps, Coffee Bar, Laundry Room, BBQ All-Season Rental
At bucks lake a quarter mile from marina. We are up in the northern Sierras Many places to fish and bike in the mountains. Close to the PCT trail
Has a small-town atmosphere that will refresh your spirit. Enjoy watching the sunset over Spanish Peak from your own porch.
KEEP PLUMAS COUNTY CLEAN, GREEN & WILD
We love welcoming visitors to create lifelong memories on our beautiful lands and unique communities. While visiting Plumas County, take the Plumas Pledge to help us care for the health of our natural places and the well-being of our communities.
take the plumas pledge!
- Prioritize wildfire prevention
- Leave places as you found them
- Pack out all of your trash—bonus points if you pick up trash left by others!
- Stay on designated trails and camp in designated areas
- Check the weather before heading out
- Be mindful of your energy and resource usage
- Ditch plastic bottles and drink our mountain fresh tap water instead
- Choose locally made products and services from local businesses
- Slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in Plumas