SIERRA COUNTY

Sierra County: rich in natural beauty and warm hospitality

Sierra County in California’s Northern Sierra Nevada mountains, beckons with endless possibilities. Hike the Pacific Crest Trail, cast a line in pristine waters, or camp under starlit skies. Bird watchers, explore the vast Sierra Valley. Winter enthusiasts, dive into snow-covered trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Mountain bikers, test your skills on the legendary Downieville Classic routes. Your ultimate outdoor playground awaits – come discover the heart of the Sierra!

Vibe:

The noise fades and nature takes the lead as you breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains, lakes and the rushing rivers in Sierra County.

Known for:

Rugged beauty with our high mountain lakes, intriguing Gold Rush history, mile after mile of trail, including part of the world famous Pacific Crest Trail, and internationally renowned mountain biking and bird watching.

Sierra County Hotels

Don’t miss:

An opportunity to go on a wildflower walk, taking a hike to the Sierra Buttes lookout, strolling through the many towns filled with history, shopping and dining, and bird watching in the Sierra Valley.

Historical Landmarks & Cultural Hotspots:

Sierra County Sheriff’s Gallows – Built in 1885, the only authentic, standing gallows in California.
Downieville Museum – Showcasing Gold Rush-era artifacts and local history.
Yuba River Scenic Byway (Highway 49) – Known as the “Mother Lode Highway,” passing through historic towns like Sierra City and Downieville.
Ancient Petroglyphs – Found from Kyburz Flat to Lacey Meadows and Hawley Lake, showcasing early Native American presence.
Kentucky Mine Museum – Recently renovated; preserves mining history and equipment.

Key Attractions and Things To Do:

Cast a line — grab your pole and explore countless fishing spots.
Outdoor Adventure Sports — mountain biking, kayaking, sledding, skiing to fly fishing, make the most of your adventure in every season.
Take a Hike — easy to extreme levels of hiking await you. Pack your map and plenty of water to explore the hundreds of miles of trails in Sierra County.
Birds, Birds, Birds — internationally renowned birdwatcher’s paradise with species both common and rare in every corner of the county.
Explore Rich Gold Rush History — visit Kentucky Mine, Downieville Museum, Goodyear Bar Museum, Underground Gold Miners Museum, and the Milton Gottardi Museum.
Cool off — find a safe place to park on Highway 49, and cool off in the tranquility of the Yuba River’s peaceful swimming holes.
Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout — 360-degree views from the historic fire lookout at 8,591 feet.
Capture the Colors of Spring — with one of the longest wildflower viewing seasons in CA, bring your camera to capture the colorful buzz all spring and early summer.