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Posted in Northern California Nature July 31, 2017 by Jill S.

The Underrated Lake That Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Place In Northern California

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.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

...hanging out or fishing on its rocky areas...

...and piers.

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

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

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?

Jill S.

Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.