Calpine

I think all explorers agree there is nothing more serene than being surrounded by nothing but wilderness. If you are one of these said explorers, a trip to Calpine's fire lookout is a must.Calpine is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1934 and is one of 3 remaining examples of the enclosed windmill-style lookout in California. The lookout was actively used every summer until 19...

If you never travel north of the Tahoe Basin into the Sierra Valley and beyond, you should. It is gorgeous, peaceful country, with wide open spaces and, compared to Tahoe, relatively uncrowded roads. This loops takes us from Bassett’s Station toward Sattley, north on 89, a brief stop to regroup in Graeeagle and then south on Gold Lake Highway and back to Bassets. It totals about 45 miles with a...

Portola "P" Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Portola, California.

Salmon Creek Campground is a quiet campground in the Northern Sierra Buttes. Since it is right up the road from Sardine Lakes it seems to get overlooked a bit. We were able to reserve three campsites the same week of our trip. There were 11 to choose from! The campground is just passed the turn for Sardine Lakes off of Highway 49. And when I say just passed it, I mean JUST PASSED IT. We missed ...

Volcano Lake & Mountain Mine Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Sierra City, California.

This campground is first come first serve and is located near Lower Sardine Lake.  There are a couple bathrooms located around the loop. Most campsites have trees, perfect for hammocking and shade. The campsite has great views of the mountains. There are a couple hiking trails nearby. Lower Sardine Lake is close enough to walk to, but it is also easy enough to drive there if taking a paddleboa...

The Sierra Buttes are one of the most scenic mountain features in all of the Sierra Nevadas. Nestled below the buttes are Upper and Lower Sardine lakes which both offer amazing fishing. Sardine Lake Resort lies at the base of the mountains and offers boat rentals, dining and cabin rentals. Just make sure to make reservations well in advance as it is typically booked. Lower Sardine Lake frowns u...

Sand Pond is a great place to relax after a day of hiking or paddling. It's located between Sardine Lake Campground and Lower Sardine Lake and is an easy 10 min walk from the campground. Sand Pond has beautiful views of the mountains and is a great place to watch the sunset. There are small fish swimming in the pond, however more fish can be found in Lower Sardine Lake. There is a trail that le...

Lower Sardine Lake is a short drive from Sardine Lakes Campground.  It has crystal clear water and is a very smooth place to paddle. This is also a popular fishing and kayaking spot. There are many fallen trees in the lake and a couple rocks that come up almost to the surface. The water in generally cold, but is swimmable during the summer months. There is a small parking lot and a bathroom ne...