Sierra Nevada
Donner Pass Petroglyphs: remnants of the mysterious Martis people
Prior to covered wagons, the Donner Party, the Gold Rush and the railroad, Donner Pass was home to an ancient Native American tribe referred to as the Martis Tribe (Martis People or Martis Complex). It’s believed that this tribe lived throughout Northern California and the Sierras from 2000 BC to 500 AD. As of now, …...
China Wall: Truckee’s memorial to the Chinese laborers who transformed America
Located at Donner Summit, in Truckee, CA, is a memorial dedicated to the Chinese laborers known as “China Wall.” This historical marker, and 150 year old wall, symbolize the death defying work that the Chinese performed through the harshest of conditions in the Sierras, often losing many of their own during the process. The bravery...
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...
The Round Lake Trail: from Carr Lake to Island Lake and beyond
Located in the heart of the Tahoe National Forest is the Grouse Ridge non-motorized area, which is filled with wonderful hikes through various elevations of the Sierras. One of the more popular trails for hikers and campers in this region is the Round Lake Trail due to its access points, scenic alpine lakes, and because …...
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 …...
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 …...
Frazier Falls: the premiere waterfall for Lakes Basin Recreation Area
The Lakes Basin Recreation Area is an outdoor paradise for anyone who enjoys fishing, hiking, camping, boating, scenic lookouts and memorable adventures. This rugged landscape has many points of interest with Frazier Falls, quite possibly, being the most popular of them all. Details About The Waterfall Frazier Falls is located in the...
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...
