01
Best overall pick
Pacific Crest Trail – Belden Canyon Section
Belden Town / Feather River Canyon • Iconic Long-Distance Trail Section • Big-View Climb Right From Town
A demanding but rewarding stretch of the PCT that rockets from river level up through hot canyon walls into cooler high-country forest.
From Belden, the Pacific Crest Trail wastes no time, switchbacking steeply out of the canyon toward the Bucks Lake high country. Expect exposed, sun-baked traverses, big views down to the North Fork Feather River, and a real workout even if you only sample a few miles. Start early, pack extra water, and treat this as a serious mountain hike rather than a casual stroll from the resort lawn.
02
Best for summer lake days
Bucks Lake Wilderness – Lakeshore & Mill Creek Loop
Bucks Lake Area, Southwest Of Belden • Lakeside Forest Loop • Scenic All-Day Outing With Swim Options
A mellow network of lakeshore and forest trails that trade canyon heat for cool air, big pines, and plenty of chances to dip your feet in Bucks Lake.
Head up toward Bucks Lake and link sections of the lakeshore and Mill Creek trails for a relaxed loop with very little route-finding stress. The walking is mostly gentle, with occasional views across the water to granite knobs and thick stands of fir and pine. Bring lunch, a towel, and make a day of it on the beaches and coves between stretches of trail.
03
Best for solitude
Rock Creek Reservoir Trails
Rock Creek Drainage, Northwest Of Belden • Quiet Forested Reservoir Paths • Low-Key Half-Day Hike
Short, lightly used paths around Rock Creek Reservoir offer shady walking, birdlife, and calm water views away from Highway 70 traffic.
If you want to leave the canyon bustle behind, the Rock Creek Reservoir area feels tucked-away and unhurried. Trails and old roads skirt the water and wander through mixed conifer forest, with occasional clearings where you can sit and watch the light move across the reservoir. It’s an easy place to improvise an out-and-back and simply enjoy the quiet without chasing a summit or specific viewpoint.
04
Best quick leg-stretcher
Indian Falls & Indian Falls Nature Trail
Indian Falls Area, East Of Belden • Short Waterfall And River Walk • Scenic Roadside Stop
A brief but beautiful walk through forest to a rocky gorge on Indian Creek, where water fans out into a photogenic cascade.
The Indian Falls Nature Trail is a welcome excuse to pull off the highway and stretch your legs without committing to a full hike. The path drops gently through shady trees to a rocky amphitheater, where the creek pours over a ledge into a series of pools and channels. It’s a great spot for photos and a snack break, especially if you’re linking Belden with Quincy or other points in the county.
05
Best bike-friendly option
Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
Susanville Rail Corridor, North Of Belden • Gravel Rail-Trail Along A Canyon River • Relaxed Day-Trip Adventure
An easy-grade former railroad line that follows the Susan River through tunnels, trestles, and colorful canyon walls, perfect for walking or biking.
Though it requires a drive from Belden, the Bizz Johnson Trail is one of the region’s most approachable long routes, with gentle grades and wide tread. You can choose a short out-and-back from one of several trailheads or commit to a longer shuttle day, taking in river views, rock cuts, and old railroad structures. It’s especially nice in fall, when cottonwoods and willows light up the canyon with color.