Best attractions and places to see around Blairsden, California, are concentrated in the scenic Lost Sierra region. The area is characterized by its natural features, including over 35 alpine lakes, vast national forests, and the Feather River. Blairsden serves as a base for exploring a variety of outdoor activities and historical sites. Visitors can access extensive hiking trails, numerous lakes, and cultural landmarks.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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Nestled right below Mount Washington, Grass Lake is one of the many lakes carved by a glacier in the Lakes Basin Area. Be sure to take in the view of the surrounding valley!
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Spectacular views of Long Lake and the entire Lakes Basin area can be had throughout this entire section of trail. The western section of trail is higher up from the lake and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. As you get closer to the lake be sure to check out the crystal clear water and soak your feet after a long day of hiking.
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Smith Lake offers solitude and rewards you with amazing views of the surrounding valley. The views are earned by walking up along the ridge on the northern side of the lake. Be prepared to cross small streams during the wetter months.
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Don't let the "Little" in Little Bear lake let you think it's any lesser than its Big counterpart. Little Bear Lake offers you the tranquility and seclusion of a private alpine lake. A perfect spot for a quick break or picnic while hiking.
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Mills Peak Trail is a wonderful trail. The upper section is slightly challenging due to the loose underground. While the lower section ist fast and pure fun! Certainly worth the ride.
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The Blairsden area is rich in natural beauty, particularly within the Lakes Basin Recreation Area. You can visit serene alpine lakes like Little Bear Lake, Long Lake, and Smith Lake, which offer opportunities for hiking, swimming, and fishing. The region is also surrounded by vast national forests, including Plumas, Lassen, and Tahoe National Forests, and features the picturesque Feather River.
Yes, Blairsden and its surroundings offer several historical and cultural sites. You can explore the rich gold mining history at Plumas-Eureka State Park, which includes historic mining sites, a stamp mill, and the ghost town of Johnsville. For train enthusiasts, the Western Pacific Railroad Museum in nearby Portola is a must-visit, offering a unique collection of rolling stock. The Historic Graeagle Mill also reflects the area's logging past, and the impressive Keddie Wye is an engineering marvel visible from Highway 70.
The Blairsden area provides extensive hiking opportunities, especially within the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, which features over 100 miles of trails. You can find trails leading to various alpine lakes like Grass Lake, offering scenic views. For more detailed information on routes and their difficulty levels, explore the Hiking around Blairsden guide.
Absolutely. The region is popular for mountain biking, with trails like the Mills Peak Trail offering both challenging upper sections and fast, fun lower sections. You can find a variety of routes for different skill levels. For a comprehensive list of trails and their details, check out the MTB Trails around Blairsden guide.
Families can enjoy a variety of activities. Exploring the numerous alpine lakes like Gold Lake offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and easy walks. Plumas-Eureka State Park provides an educational experience with its gold mining history and museum. Downtown Graeagle is charming for a stroll with unique shops, and The Brewing Lair offers a casual atmosphere with disc golf.
Many of the lakes in the Lakes Basin area, such as Long Lake and Smith Lake, offer spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Walking along the ridges near these lakes provides excellent vantage points. The national forests also contain numerous spots for scenic overlooks.
The best time to visit Blairsden for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (May to October). This period offers ideal weather for hiking, biking, swimming in the lakes, and exploring the national forests. Interpretive events and history tours at Plumas-Eureka State Park are also offered during the summer.
Beyond the natural beauty, Blairsden offers unique experiences like visiting The Brewing Lair for craft brews, live music, and disc golf. The area is also a popular destination for golfers, with several scenic courses including Plumas Pines Golf Course and Graeagle Meadows Golf Course. Indian Peak Vineyards is another local attraction for those interested in wine.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and clear waters of the alpine lakes. For instance, Little Bear Lake is noted for its seclusion, making it a perfect spot for a break or picnic. Long Lake offers crystal clear water and stunning views of the Lakes Basin, while Smith Lake provides solitude and amazing valley views from its northern ridge.
Yes, the Lost Sierra Visitor Center, which now operates online at DiscoverTheLostSierra.com, provides essential resources. You can find interactive maps, trail guides, event calendars, and recommendations for lodging and dining for the entire Plumas County region, which includes Blairsden.
The Feather River meanders through the Mohawk Valley, offering a picturesque setting with groves of aspen and willow, and lively trout pools. Additionally, Lavezzola Creek, located about 17 miles from Blairsden-Graeagle, provides scenic hiking opportunities.


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