01
Best big-view summit
Mills Peak Lookout Trail
South Of Graeagle Off Highway 89 • Steady Forest Climb To A Fire Lookout • Best Big-View Summit
A stout climb through shaded forest that finishes at a historic lookout with sweeping views over the Mohawk Valley and Sierra crest.
From the trailhead off the Mills Peak Road, the route winds steadily uphill through tall pines and firs, with occasional openings toward the valley below. The last stretch to the lookout feels exposed and dramatic, rewarding you with wide-open views that stretch well beyond Graeagle on a clear day. It is a solid workout, so bring water and plan extra time to linger at the top.
02
Classic Sierra lake ramble
Jamison Creek Trail to Jamison and Rock Lakes
Plumas-Eureka State Park Near Johnsville • Classic Sierra Lake-And-Creek Hike • Best Summer Classic
A varied trail that climbs past mining relics and cascades to a string of cold, clear alpine lakes perfect for a long lunch stop.
Starting near the Jamison Mine complex, this trail feels like a mini tour of Plumas County history and scenery, with old structures, creek crossings, and granite slabs underfoot. As you gain elevation, the air cools and the forest opens to reveal Jamison, Rock, and smaller lakes tucked against rocky ridges. It is a great choice on hot days, with plenty of chances to dip your feet and pick a quiet shoreline away from the main crowds.
03
Most family-friendly walk
Frazier Falls Trail
Frazier Creek Area Off Gold Lake Highway • Short, Mostly Paved Waterfall Walk • Best For Families
An easy, mostly level path to a dramatic overlook of Frazier Falls plunging into a rocky gorge.
The Frazier Falls Trail is ideal when you want big scenery without committing to a long or steep hike. The route is short, partially paved, and dotted with benches and viewpoints, making it accessible for a wide range of ages and abilities. Aim for late spring or early summer when snowmelt swells the falls and wildflowers line the surrounding granite.
04
Best half-day escape
Long Lake Trail
Lakes Basin Recreation Area North Of Graeagle • Alpine Lake Out-And-Back • Best Half-Day Escape
A classic Lakes Basin hike that threads past smaller ponds and granite slabs to a deep blue lake rimmed by cliffs.
From the Round Lake or Long Lake trailheads, you quickly leave the road behind and step into true high-country terrain, with views unfolding almost immediately. The trail undulates over granite and through pockets of forest before dropping you at Long Lake’s rock-lined shore, where you can find sun-warmed slabs for lounging or swimming. It is long enough to feel like an outing but short enough to fit between morning coffee in Cromberg and dinner back in town or in Graeagle.
05
Best adventurous loop
Bear Lakes and Round Lake Loop
Upper Lakes Basin High Country • High-Country Loop Linking Multiple Lakes • Best Adventurous Loop
A scenic circuit that strings together Round Lake, the Bear Lakes, and open granite ridges for a full-value day on trail.
This loop feels wilder than many Lakes Basin walks, with more elevation change and a stronger sense of being out in the backcountry. You will traverse meadows, skirt several lakes, and gain viewpoints where you can look back toward Sierra Buttes and across the basin. Confident hikers who like to keep moving will appreciate how the terrain and views shift every mile, making the drive from Cromberg well worth the effort.