01
Best alpine lake adventure
Homer and Deerheart Lakes Trail
North Of Greenville In The High Country • High-Elevation Alpine Lake Trail • Best Overall Pick
A moderately challenging out-and-back into granite country, ending at two classic Sierra lakes that feel far wilder than their mileage suggests.
This trail climbs steadily through mixed forest and open granite slabs before dropping you at the shores of Homer and Deerheart Lakes, both framed by classic Plumas County ridgelines. It’s a satisfying half-day outing with enough elevation gain to feel like a real hike, but not so much that reasonably fit visitors will be intimidated. Go early for calm water, easier parking, and a better shot at spotting wildlife around the lakes.
02
Best short waterfall walk
Indian Creek Falls Trail
Indian Valley, Near Greenville • Shaded Creekside Stroll To A Waterfall • Easiest Family Walk
A quick, gently graded path that drops to a photogenic cascade, ideal when you want a leg-stretcher without committing to a big hike.
The Indian Creek Falls Trail follows a short forest path down to a broad, tumbling falls on Indian Creek, with enough mist and noise to feel dramatic without being remote. The grade is mild and the distance is brief, making it a solid choice for families, casual walkers, or anyone acclimating to the elevation. Pack a snack and linger at the overlook or along the creekside rocks before the short climb back out.
03
Best quiet backcountry feel
Grey Lake Trail
Backcountry East Of Greenville • Remote Mountain Basin Hike • Quietest Escape
A more committing route into a high basin, rewarding the extra effort with solitude, big skies, and a tucked-away lake at the end.
Grey Lake Trail trades crowds for space, leading you through open forest and scattered granite to a lonely lake ringed by rugged slopes. The trail has some steeper, rockier stretches, so it suits hikers who are comfortable being a bit farther out and moving at their own pace. On clear days, the light on the surrounding ridges near sunset makes the return hike especially memorable.
04
Best summit-style workout
Mount Hough Trail
Near Quincy, Southeast Of Greenville • Big-View Summit Trail • Best For Panoramic Views
A stout climb to a fire-lookout summit, trading effort for sweeping views over Indian Valley, Lake Almanor, and the surrounding ranges.
Mount Hough is a local benchmark, and the trail that winds up its flanks gives you a front-row seat to the changing forest and rock as you gain elevation. Expect a sustained climb and bring plenty of water, but the payoff at the top—wide-open views and a real sense of the region’s layout—makes it a standout day. Strong hikers can treat it as a workout, while others can take their time and build in plenty of photo stops along the way.
05
Best relaxed lakeside option
Round Valley Reservoir Loop
Just South Of Greenville • Easy Loop Around A Small Mountain Lake • Laid-Back Evening Stroll
A mellow loop tracing the edge of a quiet reservoir, with open views, birdlife, and good spots to pause along the shore.
Round Valley Reservoir offers an unfussy way to stretch your legs, with a mostly level path that circles the water and plenty of chances to duck to the shoreline. It’s popular with local dog walkers and anglers, but it rarely feels crowded, especially on weekday evenings. Come for the golden-hour light on the hills, and stay to watch the last colors fade over the still water.