01
Best overall pick
Pacific Crest Trail at Belden
Belden On Highway 70 • Steep Canyon Ridge Trail • Best For Strong Hikers
A classic Pacific Crest Trail climb straight out of the Feather River canyon with big views almost the entire way.
From the tiny riverside outpost of Belden, the PCT wastes no time zigzagging up through oaks and pines to far‑reaching overlooks above the North Fork Feather River. The grade is demanding but steady, and you can turn around whenever you have had your fill of elevation. Go early on hot days, and bring plenty of water—shade is spotty once you are on the exposed switchbacks.
02
Best quick stop
Indian Falls Interpretive Trail
Near Indian Falls On Highway 89 • Short Waterfall Stroll • Quick Leg-Stretch Stop
A short, mellow path that drops to a scenic cascade on Indian Creek, ideal when you are breaking up a drive.
This half‑mile‑ish path meanders through mixed forest to a rocky perch above Indian Falls, where the creek fans out into a broad curtain of water. It is an easy, family‑friendly outing with just enough roots and rocks to feel like a real trail. Bring a snack and linger on the boulders while you watch the water squeeze through the narrow slot below.
03
Classic lake loop feel
Bucks Lake Lakeshore Trail
Bucks Lake Recreation Area • Alpine Lake Shoreline Path • Best Summer Escape
A relaxed lakeside trail threading coves, granite outcrops, and shady pines around Bucks Lake.
Set high above the canyon, Bucks Lake offers cooler temperatures and a string of mellow lakeshore paths that you can hike as short out‑and‑backs or longer partial loops. The main lakeshore route rolls gently along the water, with side spurs to swimming coves and picnic spots. It is a good choice for mixed groups, since some folks can linger by the water while others push on for more miles.
04
Best for big views
Mount Hough Trail
Above Quincy • Summit Ridge And Forest Trail • View-Packed Outing
A sustained climb to a fire lookout–style summit with sweeping views over Quincy and the surrounding ranges.
Mount Hough is better known to mountain bikers, but it also makes a rewarding hike if you are up for the vertical. As you wind through fir and pine, breaks in the trees reveal glimpses of American Valley below, building to a wide‑open panorama at the top. On clear days you can pick out Bucks Lake, distant ridges, and the sinuous course of the Feather River snaking through the canyons.
05
Most relaxed walk
Almanor Rail Trail
Lake Almanor North Shore • Gentle Forest Rail-Trail • Best Casual Wander
A mostly level converted rail corridor along the north side of Lake Almanor, great for easy miles and lake glimpses.
This former rail line trades switchbacks for smooth, gradual grades, making it friendly for newer hikers, kids, and anyone easing into the season. The route slips between pines and meadows with periodic peeks at Lake Almanor and the surrounding peaks. Go in the evening for long light over the water and cooler temperatures, or pair a short walk here with a swim or picnic along the lakeshore.