There are tons of beautiful places in Northern California, but our most popular places can sometimes feel like they are loved to death. That’s why it’s always worth it to get off the beaten trail and see someplace new. We love Lake Almanor, located in the Lost Sierra region.

Located in Plumas County, Lake Almanor is a large, high elevation reservoir that was created in 1927.

Flickr/ K Schneider

It was built by Great Western Power and named after the three daughters of a company executive: Alice, Martha, and Eleanor.

Flickr/ David Welch

First time visitors are usually blown away by the beauty of this lake and have a hard time leaving.

Flickr/ Jose and Roxanne

People come here to view wildlife, fish, paddle the still water of the lake, and soak in the mountain views.

Flickr/ Jose and Roxanne

The south shore of the lake is located in Lassen National Forest. You can also see Lassen Peak from the lake.

Flickr/ Clinton Steeds

The lake was formed by damming the Feather River and flooding the longstanding Yamani Maidu village site located in the surrounding meadow.

Flickr/ Levi Bare

The dam is now owned by PG&E and used for hydroelectric power generation.

Flickr/ Peter Sims

It’s definitely one of the top recreation destinations in this part of California, however.

Flickr/ Christopher Soltis

Its proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park as well as its own natural beauty make it an incredible spot to visit.

Flickr/ Levi Bare

Lassen Volcanic National Park only sees about 400,000 visitors a year, whereas Yosemite by comparison sees about 4 million.

Flickr/ lydiadehn

So if you are looking for a place with fewer people but just as much beauty, this part of California is definitely worth the drive.

Flickr/ Don DeBold

With 52 miles of shoreline, you won’t get bored playing on the beaches of Lake Almanor…

Flickr/ TomOwen

…hanging out or fishing on its rocky areas…

Flickr/ lydiadehn

…and piers.

Flickr/ Jon Scally

And, of course, nothing can beat a sunset viewed in this incredible scenic location.

Flickr/ David Welch

Whatever you come here to do, it’s hard not to fall in love with Lake Almanor.

Flickr/ NAParish

Lake Almanor is a real gem. Have you ever visited this stunning lake? What did you think about it? Is it worth a second visit?

Flickr/ K Schneider

Flickr/ David Welch

Flickr/ Jose and Roxanne

Flickr/ Jose and Roxanne

Flickr/ Clinton Steeds

Flickr/ Levi Bare

Flickr/ Peter Sims

Flickr/ Christopher Soltis

Flickr/ Levi Bare

Flickr/ lydiadehn

Flickr/ Don DeBold

Flickr/ TomOwen

Flickr/ Jon Scally

Flickr/ NAParish

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