Posted in Northern California July 31, 2017 by

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.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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?

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