01
Best overall pick
North Yuba Trail
Along The North Yuba River Just East Of Town • Riverside Singletrack Through Mixed Forest • Signature Downieville Classic
A rolling river-hugging trail that feels wild yet stays close to Highway 49 and town.
Starting just outside Downieville, the North Yuba Trail threads above the river on a narrow path shaded by oaks, firs, and pines. It’s easy to customize your outing by hiking an out-and-back section, turning around at a favorite viewpoint or creek crossing. Expect bike traffic on weekends, but the scenery and sense of being tucked into the canyon make it a local favorite.
02
Best big-view summit
Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail
High Country North Of Sierra City • High-Elevation Granite And Lake Country Hike • Best For Big Mountain Views
A stout climb to an old fire lookout with one of the most expansive panoramas in the northern Sierra.
A scenic drive from Downieville brings you to the trailhead below the jagged Sierra Buttes, where the hike wastes no time heading uphill. The trail switchbacks through open forest and past granite outcrops before finishing with the famous metal staircases up to the lookout. On clear days you can see layer after layer of peaks, plus glittering lakes scattered across the Lakes Basin below.
03
Quiet canyon escape
Halls Ranch and Fiddle Creek Trail
North Yuba Canyon West Of Downieville • Historic Canyon Route With Creek Access • Best For A Half-Day Outing
A quieter trail that climbs from the river into open hillsides and shady ravines above Fiddle Creek.
This route uses an old ranch road and singletrack to pull you away from Highway 49 noise into a more secluded side canyon. Views open up over the North Yuba before the trail drops toward Fiddle Creek, where you’ll hear water well before you see it. It’s a good choice when you want a solid workout, varied terrain, and fewer people than the marquee trails closer to town.
04
Best shaded forest ramble
Empire Creek Trail
Forest Corridor Between Downieville And Sierra City • Cool Creekside Forest Trail • Best For Hot Summer Afternoons
A gently climbing path along Empire Creek, tucked in deep shade and far from road noise.
Empire Creek Trail trades big vistas for a cool, close-up feel of the northern Sierra forest. The route follows the creek upstream, crossing old logging spurs and passing pockets of ferns, dogwoods, and mossy banks. It’s a reliable go-to on warm days when you want the sound of water and a softer, less rocky tread underfoot.
05
Classic creek-side route
Second Divide Trail via Pauley Creek
Drainage Above Downieville Off Lavezzola Road • Narrow Bench-Cut Trail Along A Rushing Creek • Best For Confident Hikers Seeking Excitement
A narrow, dramatic trail contouring above Pauley Creek, known for its energy and close canyon feel.
Accessed on the dirt roads above town, Second Divide is famous among mountain bikers but also makes a memorable hike for those comfortable with some exposure. The singletrack clings to the hillside, giving you constant views down to turquoise runs and cascades on Pauley Creek. Go midweek or early in the day for a quieter experience and take your time around tighter, cliff-hugging sections.