01
Best overall pick
Bucks Lake Lakeshore Trail
Bucks Lake Recreation Area West Of Quincy • Classic Forest-And-Lake Loop • Local Favorite For All Skill Levels
A mellow shoreline trail that links coves, pines, and wide-open water views around Bucks Lake.
This lakeshore path gives you the full Bucks Lake experience without demanding mountaineer fitness. You can hike sections as an easy out-and-back or connect segments into a longer loop, with frequent access to pocket beaches and granite outcrops for picnics or swims. Go early or on shoulder-season weekdays for quieter coves and glassy morning reflections.
02
Best for big views
Mount Hough Trail
Above Quincy In Plumas National Forest • Ridge And Summit Climb • Scenic Workout Hike
A sustained climb up Mount Hough rewards you with sweeping views over American Valley and the surrounding Plumas peaks.
Known with mountain bikers but just as good on foot, the Mount Hough route winds through fir and pine before breaking out to open ridges. The higher you go, the bigger the vistas, with Quincy, the Middle Fork Feather River canyon, and distant ranges all unfolding below. Start in the morning for cooler temperatures and bring layers—the summit can be breezy even on warm days.
03
Best summer cool-down
Spanish Creek Trail at Oakland Camp
Canyon North Of Quincy • Shaded Creekside Out-And-Back • Go-To Spot For Hot Afternoons
A relaxed trail follows Spanish Creek through a cool, wooded canyon dotted with boulders and swimming holes.
This is where locals sneak off when the temperatures climb—easy walking, steady shade, and plenty of access to the water. Short side paths drop to gravel bars and pools, making it simple to customize the length of your outing or linger at a favorite bend in the creek. Watch for spring wildflowers along the banks and be prepared for higher flows early in the season.
04
Bucket-list climb
Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail
Lakes Basin Recreation Area Near Gold Lake • Steep High-Alpine Hike • Bucket-List Day Hike For Strong Hikers
A stout ascent leads to the iconic Sierra Buttes fire lookout, perched above a chain of glacial lakes and craggy peaks.
The trail wastes little time gaining elevation, switchbacking through forest and rocky slopes toward the jagged skyline of the Buttes. The final approach, with its steel stairs and cliff-edge lookout, feels like something out of a mountaineering film but is accessible to prepared day hikers. Clear days deliver some of the best views in the northern Sierra, so plan for an early start, plenty of water, and time to linger at the top.
05
Best easy family walk
Lake Davis Trail
North Of Portola Near Lake Davis • Wide, Gentle Lakeside Path • Relaxed Outing For Walkers And Casual Hikers
A mostly level multi-use path traces the shoreline of Lake Davis, with open vistas, birdlife, and easy turnaround points.
This is an ideal choice when you want fresh air without big climbs or technical terrain. The path alternates between open stretches with broad views across the reservoir and quieter pockets of forest and meadow that attract waterfowl and deer. Pick a segment near one of the access points, bring a thermos or fishing rod, and turn the walk into a slow-paced half day by the water.