01
Closest big-summit hike
Mount Hough Trail
Above Quincy • Ridge And Summit Singletrack • Best For Strong Hikers
A steady climb to a fire lookout with broad views over American Valley and the surrounding ridges.
Mount Hough is the obvious big outing if you want a real summit without driving hours from Greenhorn. The trail winds through mixed conifer forest before breaking out into big, open views near the top, where the old lookout and rock outcrops make a natural lunch spot. Expect a moderately long day with real elevation gain, but nothing technical underfoot.
02
Best relaxed lake day
Bucks Lake Lakeshore Trail
Bucks Lake West Of Quincy • Forest Lake Shoreline Path • Relaxed Half-Day Outing
An easy-to-moderate trail tracing the edge of Bucks Lake, with frequent access to coves, picnic spots, and swimming breaks.
The lakeshore trail at Bucks Lake is an easy sell on hot afternoons: mostly gentle grades, filtered shade, and plenty of spots to duck down to the water. You can choose shorter out-and-back sections from several pullouts, or piece together a longer day following the shoreline. It’s a good mixed group option, since folks can peel off to hang at the water while others hike farther.
03
Most dramatic viewpoints
Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail
Near Sierra City • Rocky Fire-Lookout Climb • Iconic High-Sierra Viewpoint
A stout but rewarding climb to a historic fire lookout perched on jagged peaks above a chain of alpine lakes.
If you’re up for a bigger drive and a bigger hike, the Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail delivers the kind of views people plan whole trips around. The route climbs steadily on rocky tread through forest and open slopes before the final staircase to the lookout, where you get dizzying perspectives over the Lakes Basin and distant ranges. Start early, pack plenty of water, and plan to linger at the top if the weather is calm.
04
Best lakeside cruiser
Almanor Recreation Trail
West Shore Of Lake Almanor • Gentle Forested Lake Trail • Family-Friendly Favorite
A mostly level path along Lake Almanor’s wooded shoreline, with consistent views of the water and easy turn-around points.
The Almanor Recreation Trail is ideal when you want time outside without committing to a big climb. The tread is generally smooth and rolling, making it friendly for kids, casual walkers, or anyone easing into the local altitude. You get classic lake-and-mountain vistas, occasional beach access, and enough length to turn it into anything from a one-hour stroll to a longer leg-stretcher.
05
Best long rail-trail day
Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
Susanville Area • River Canyon Rail-Trail • Scenic All-Day Wander
A converted rail corridor following the Susan River through tunnels, trestles, and broad pine benches.
Though it’s more of a day trip from Greenhorn, the Bizz Johnson Trail is worth knowing about if you like long, mostly gentle hikes. You can hike shorter segments from multiple access points, or use a shuttle to cover more of the 20-plus miles without backtracking. The mix of river views, canyon walls, and old railroad features keeps the scenery changing even on a full-day outing.