Discover Plumas: Railroad History, Mining and Nature

At the Western Pacific Railroad Museum’s Run-A-Locomotive program, visitors can rent a historic diesel locomotive and operate it on the museum grounds under the close supervision of a personal instructor. Visitors are also invited to enter locomotive cabs.

Locomotives and Railroad History

The Western Pacific Railroad Museum’s collection includes more than 30 locomotives and 128 pieces of rolling stock. Along with the Run-A-Locomotive program and the locomotive cabs, the museum offers several ways to experience railroading: visitors can explore the collection, get a look inside the cabs or operate a locomotive under instruction.

Mining and Regional History

Plumas-Eureka State Park features a historic mining-era village. The park’s trails also provide access to the Pacific Crest Trail. This brings a historic theme and a direct connection to a trail together within the park, though the two experiences need not have the same destination.

The Plumas County Museum has a different focus: its permanent exhibits include an outstanding collection of baskets woven by members of the Mountain Maidu. The industrial history section covers the railroads of Plumas County, gold mining on the Feather River and the timber industry. These topics offer insight into different aspects of the region’s history.

The museum’s outdoor exhibit grounds include a working blacksmith shop, a stamp mill and a restored miner’s cabin. In addition to the indoor exhibits, visitors can also see individual workshop and mining-related objects.

Trails, Lakes and Landscapes

The Backcountry Discovery Trail is a 150-mile route for exploring Plumas County. Its length and focus on the county make it a distinct way to experience the landscape on a broader scale.

Bucks Lake is a high-elevation mountain lake at 5,200 feet, with 17 miles of shoreline. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent at the lake. This brings together the area’s distinctive landscape and the opportunity to use different types of watercraft.

The Mill Creek Trail at Bucks Lake passes through pine forests and aspen groves.

The Round Valley Lake Loop is a relatively flat trail around the lake. More than 100 bird species have also been observed at or near Round Valley Reservoir. The loop and the bird sightings offer different ways to experience the area’s nature.

In Lassen Volcanic National Park, the main road runs for 30 miles through the park’s western section and connects two visitor centers. Visitors can use the road’s route and the connection between the two centers as practical reference points when planning their visit.

The Antelope Lake Recreation Area has an 11-mile paved loop.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Quincy, Portola, Chester, Spring Garden, Graeagle, Cromberg, Belden, Plumas Eureka, Lake Almanor Country Club, Johnsville, Lake Almanor Peninsula.

For the broader travel overview: California.