01
Best easy lakeside walk
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
West Shore Of Lake Almanor • Lakeside Multi-Use Path Through Tall Pines • Best Easy Outing From Prattville
A mostly level path hugging Lake Almanor’s west shore with constant water views and room to spread out.
This paved and gravel trail links several west-shore campgrounds and day-use areas, so you can hop on for a quick out-and-back or a longer half-day ramble. Expect filtered lake views through the pines, quiet coves for picnics, and a few gentle hills rather than serious climbs. It is an ideal first hike after you arrive in Prattville or on a lazy morning when you want scenery without a long drive.
02
Relaxed forest rail-trail
Almanor Rail Trail
Between Westwood And Lake Almanor • Converted Rail-Trail In Mixed Conifer Forest • Laid-Back Family-Friendly Option
A wide, gently graded former rail line that makes it easy to cover miles without much elevation gain.
Following an old railroad corridor near the lake’s northeastern side, this trail offers long, straight stretches through pine, fir, and meadows. The grade is mellow enough for kids, occasional hikers, and relaxed bike rides, with plenty of room for dogs and strollers in drier months. Go early or near sunset for cooler temperatures and soft light filtering through the trees.
03
Iconic high-country adventure
Lassen Volcanic National Park Day Hikes
Southwest Of Lake Almanor • High-Elevation Volcanic Peaks And Alpine Lakes • Best Full-Day Adventure
A compact national park with steaming vents, turquoise lakes, and summit trails within easy driving distance of Lake Almanor.
From Prattville, a scenic drive brings you into Lassen’s heart, where short hikes like Bumpass Hell and Manzanita Lake deliver big payoff views with minimal effort. Stronger hikers can tackle longer routes to Kings Creek Falls or up Lassen Peak when the summit trail is open. Snow can linger well into summer, so check conditions, pack layers, and plan extra time to enjoy the overlooks along the park road.
04
Best long-distance rail-trail
Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
Susanville Corridor • River Canyon Rail-Trail With Tunnels And Trestles • Scenic Long-Distance Outing
A gently descending trail that follows the Susan River through a colorful canyon, passing old trestle bridges and short tunnels.
Though it starts a bit farther from Prattville, this classic Northern California trail rewards the drive with a completely different landscape. Pick a segment near Westwood or Susanville and walk along the river, watching for trout in the pools and cliffs glowing in late-day light. The firm surface and consistent grade make it a good choice for longer walks when you want to cover distance without steep climbs.
05
Cool high-country escape
Bucks Lake Trails
Bucks Lake Area, Southwest Of Prattville • Granite-Fringed Alpine Lake And Forest Paths • Best For Summer Heat Relief
A network of mellow to moderate routes around a high-elevation reservoir ringed by thick forest and rocky points.
Bucks Lake sits higher and a bit cooler than Lake Almanor, making it a natural choice on hot afternoons. Lakeshore paths and nearby forest trails offer a mix of shaded walking, small creek crossings, and wide-open views from rocky peninsulas. Pack a swimsuit or a camp chair if you want to turn your hike into a full-day escape by the water.