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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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
Safety first! Always check weather and road conditions before an outing.
Depending on snow levels, roads can be closed or have chain requirements
Leave no trace–take all trash with you and stay on designated roads and trails
Plan for variable weather and temperatures ranging from freezing to the low 80s.
Gas stations can be 30 miles or more apart depending where in the county you are traveling–when in doubt, get gas!
Regions of Plumas County
Four distinct regions define Plumas County, each with their own alluring qualities, diverse destinations, and unparalleled hospitality.
Spring Conditions
Spring is lovely in the Lost Sierra but weather is variable. Generally, be prepared for mild days and cool nights dipping down to freezing. Best to dress in layers and bring a jacket. It’s perfect for daytime hiking and exploring. A few of our mountain roads remain CLOSED in the early spring including the Gold Lakes Highway, the Quincy-Oroville Road (Bucks Lake), and La Porte Road. Check road conditions before traveling.
Did You Know?
The Feather River Watershed is an important source of clean, fresh water for the State of California. Millions of downstream users get their water from the Feather River and Plumas County reservoirs.
Snow in the Sierra is critically important! Nearly 30% of California’s water supply comes from snowpack in the Sierra Nevada.
The Feather River Watershed
Read our blog to learn all about the Sierra Nevada’s largest watershed