History and Mystery
Donner Summit Train Tunnels: a historical journey through abandoned train tunnels
Truckee has been fondly referred to as “the most historical square mile in California.” And, perhaps, no site represents this historical significance better than Donner Summit, where the abandoned train tunnels are located. In addition to the remarkable tunnels, China Wall and Native American petroglyphs are found in the same...
Underwater Towns of California: A look at towns buried in watery graves
Many of California’s lakes and reservoirs provide endless fun for visitors along with other vital resources like irrigation, hydroelectricity, and drinking water. Yet, beneath the waters of some of these lakes and reservoirs lie remnants of towns dating back to the Gold Rush era. In fact, in a handful of lakes and reservoirs, scuba...
Fallen Leaf Lake History: Name Origins, Washoe Legends, and Early Settlement
Fallen Leaf Lake history is deeper than a simple question about how the lake got its name. Tucked just south of Lake Tahoe, this Sierra lake carries layers of history that stretch from Washoe connections and oral tradition to 19th-century exploration, early settlement, resort development, and even modern scientific discoveries hidden...
The Grouse Ridge Lookout: one of California’s oldest lookouts with amazing views
The Grouse Ridge Lookout is one of the oldest lookouts in all of California. Built in 1923, this fire lookout was in use for five decades until being retired in the 1970’s due to the advancement of technology. Currently, there is a movement to restore this historic lookout which provides visitors with stunning views of …...
Forest City: Sierra County’s authentic Gold Rush ghost town
Forest City, appropriately named because of its location in the Tahoe National Forest, was settled in the summer of 1852 when miners discovered gold at the forks of the Oregon Creek in Sierra County. Within a few short years, the town grew to over 1,000 residents and at least 30 commercial businesses. However, like other …...
The grave mysteries of Calico’s historic cemetery
Calico, California’s official State Silver Rush Ghost Town, is a popular tourist attraction located in the Calico Mountains of Southern California’s Mojave Desert. This once prominent silver mining town, became a metaphoric graveyard by the early 20th century as it was fading into the history books before Walter Knott (owner of...
Mills Peak Fire Lookout: spectacular views of Lakes Basin Rec Area and Plumas County
The Mills Peak Fire Lookout is an active lookout located in Plumas National Forest and the Lakes Basin Recreation Area at an elevation of 7,300 feet. This lookout provides spectacular views of both Plumas and Sierra Counties, is staffed around the clock during fire season, and can be accessed by vehicles, mountain bikes, or on …...
Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area: three historic eras in one scenic location
The Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area is Sierra County’s little known historic site that’s actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its blend of three different historic eras into one scenic location. Under the supervision of the Sierraville Ranger District, the Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area is nestled...
Columbia School House: the old red brick school on a hill
The Columbia School House is believed to be the oldest surviving two-story brick schoolhouse in California. Built in 1860, this historic school sits on a picturesque hill overlooking town. Gently restored and preserved, this school is in spectacular shape and provides visitors with a wonderful opportunity to step back in time and...
Nevada County’s lost and forgotten town of Cherokee
One of the many Gold Rush towns to have graced and disappeared from Nevada County was the once prosperous town of Cherokee. At its peak (1856-1865), Cherokee was a bustling town with many amenities and some of the richest diggings on the San Juan Ridge. Sadly, all that remains of this Gold Rush town is …...
