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By Melissa Wynn
Late August means the blackberry bushes are once again heavy laden with bubbly, juicy fruit. Picking before the rains come is what you want to do. A pail and a desire to wander through the woods is all you need for a Sierra berry picking adventure.
Blackberry bushes are full of thorns, so long pants and sturdy closed toe shoes are a wise wardrobe choice for this activity families have shared for as long as humans have inhabited the Sierra. Blackberries are a mouthwatering treat straight off the vine but they do stain everything they touch purple, so also wear clothes that you won’t mind splotching with berry juice. My family has made Labor Day weekend our traditional blackberry picking get together for six years running and 2012 will make it seven. I can hardly wait. We prefer to do our picking in Seneca just six miles from Lake Almanor’s West Shore PG&E Beach. But this neck of the woods also holds a bounty of great spots to find blackberries.
From Oroville to Quincy, Hwy 70 is spotted with berry patches all along the way. I have found the plumpest , sweetest and biggest berries grow along the water’s edge. This spectacular drive through Feather River Canyon has many turn outs near the water. Patch hopping is fun until you find a favorite.
A turn just before Quincy, up Hwy 89, leads to more blackberry heaven near Lake Almanor or around Butt Lake. The drive just gets more beautiful and offers several more prime picking spots along the Feather River. You can also take a little detour at Taylorsville and hunt along Indian Creek as well. If your final destination lies beyond Quincy further up Hwy 70, fret not, for the waterways along this route are lined with berry patches as well. Whether you roam toward Portola and Beckwourth or down into Sierra County, fat juicy blackberries await.
Come on up and join us in one of our special annual traditions courtesy of nature. All blackberries in national forests and on all other public lands are fair game unless otherwise posted. If you have a hard time choosing where to wander, stop, and one of the friendly Mountain Valley locals will be happy to point you toward a patch with this bit of picking advise…one for the pail, two for me!
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By Melissa Wynn
Summer fun around Susanville means hiking the miles of scenic nearby trails. Susanville Ranch Park is a local favorite offering 22 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails with spectacular meadow and valley views. The park’s southern portion winds around the meadows and up Paiute Creek Canyon on a gentle grade with a more challenging climb on Coyote Bluff. Wide open spaces and 2 creeks make this a great choice for families with children and pets. More experienced hikers seem to prefer the 14 miles of many loop options, challenging climbs and back turns of the northern section. Susanville Ranch Park is an awesome hiking, biking and horseback riding choice for all ages.
If you prefer a shadier hike through the woods, then The Bizz Johnson Trail is for you. Following the old Fernley and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad, the trail winds 25.4 miles from Susanville to Mason Station. For the first 16 miles, the trail follows the Susan River. As it winds through the rugged Susan River Canyon, the trail crosses the river 12 times on bridges and trestles and passes through two tunnels. The landscape is a combination of semi-arid canyon and stunning upland forests. The”Bizz” then follows existing roads an additional 4.5 miles into Westwood, a truly beautiful mountain stroll all are invited to enjoy. Come join us on these fun, scenic hikes of Susanville.
Hiking can work up quite an appetite but fear not, Susanville has several dining choices to fill the void. Diamond Mountain Casino at 900 Skyline Dr. is one of my favorite spots for good eats. Whether I’m looking for a good quick sandwich and fries lunch at a reasonable price or a fancy, juicy steak dinner with a hot date, between the open friendly coffee shop and Sports Bar and Grill they’ve got it covered. Just like in Chester Happy Garden at 1960 Main Street is my choice for Chinese, the crab and cheese wontons keep me coming back time and time again.
Tired from the hike and stuffed full with dinner many choose to spend a comfortable night in a jacuzzi suite at the Best Western Trailside Inn at 2785 Main St. Nothing like a long soak to relax the body and soothe the mind. A free continental breakfast in the morning will have you fueled up for a busy day of world class fishing at scenic Eagle Lake just North of Susanville.
Home of the tasty and hardy Eagle Lake trout, this gorgeous mountain lake attracts serious anglers from all over the world. Local fisherman Bob Hertzig recalls his first experience on this sparkling body of water.
At the beginning of the summer in 2009, I really wanted to go fishing to complete my dream of catching my biggest fish. Without any fishing experience at all, I knew that I really needed some help. I had heard that one of my old High School buddies, Dick Mason, had a Guide Service and that he consistently caught big fish. I called Dick and told him what I had in mind and he said that he liked to fish Eagle Lake in the Spring, Lake Almanor in the Fall, and Lake Shasta in the Winter. I said sign me up!
My first trip was to Eagle Lake and there were three of us. We left early in the morning and launched the boat and started fishing about dawn. Dick showed me what pole to use, what bait was hot, how much line to let out, and how to “play the fish” and net them once they got to the boat. We caught our limit and we headed home about noon. We went to Dick’s house and cleaned the fish and relived our victorious day. Bob Hertzig
Eagle Lake offers several camping options for tents and RVs as well as a wide variety of vacation rental homes and cabins. Whether you prefer the sleeping bag or a fluffy bed Eagle Lake has your kind of place to rest your weary head.
Hikers bikers and fisherman seeking outdoor adventure search no more, point that RV toward Susanville and come join the fun.
Facts courtesy of susanvilleranchpark.com and blm.gov
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Taking kids on a road trip? Try playing these fun games in the car!
Story Book Game
This game is fun, pretty soon everyone will be laughing! This game involves imagination. . . Start off with a sentence of your choice, go around and have everyone add a sentence on to the story. To make it interesting add something silly, or a sentence that doesn’t even make sense!
Guessing Games
For shorter waits, guessing games can work, especially for kids who get bored or frustrated easily. Normally, they are based on yes or no questions… Like, is it an animal? Is it big? Is it a food? If you want, you can even create some cards with names on them, with famous people, animals, or the places you are visiting.
Tongue Twisters
Tongue twisters always get a great laugh! Come up with any sentences, that twist up your words. An example could be: How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood! Have everybody try to say it 3 times in a row, quickly.
Guessing Letters
This game is great for a quiet place. One person draws, with their fingers, on another person’s palm, while they have their eyes closed, and the person guesses what letter they drew. Alternate from person to person, except the driver, of course.
Telephone
Pass a whispered message or sentence from one person to the next. You can only tell them the message once. As it goes around, it will probably end up getting mixed up. It will give the family a great laugh.
I Spy
‘I spy with my little eye something…’ This game is great when kids start to get bored. Look for an object, then give give the people slight clues on what the object is. An example: “I spy something with four legs.” Items spied can be inside or outside the car.
Be sure to bring along Ellie’s word find on page 32 to keep the time passing!
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Sheltered by pines and crossed by excellent fishing streams, the Lake Almanor area is one of Northern California’s true gems. Campers come to the region to fish, hike, ride horses, swim, boat, and just plain relax. Here are ten great places to set up camp.
Rocky Point Campground is located 11 miles from Greenville on Hwy 89 on the shore of Lake Almanor. This beauty boasts160 sites and is open from May to October, depending on snowfall.
Camp Conery is located 9 miles from Greenville on Hwy 89 across the Hwy from Lake Almanor. This group camping area has a multi-purpose building with a cook area, grill, refrigerator, showers, and flush toilets. The campground also has 5 bunk houses, each with a bathroom, that will hold up to 50 people total. Open end of May to beginning of October. By Reservation only. Call (916) 386-5164.
Last Chance Campground is located 6 miles Northeast of Chester on Hwy 36. Set among pines and junipers next to a mountain stream, this campground has 25 sites, 13 of which can be reserved as a group site. Open end of May to early October.
Cool Springs Campground is located 10 miles from Chester off of Hwy 89 on the shore of Butt Lake Reservoir, this campground has 33 sites. Full hookups are provided. Open mid May to mid September.
Yellow Creek Campground is located 20 miles from Lake Almanor along the banks of Yellow Creek overlooking a beautiful meadow, this secluded little campground has 12 sites. Roads to and inside the campground are dirt. This spot is a favorite with fly fishermen. Water, propane and sewer hookups are provided. Open end of May to the mid September.
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Imagine your wedding day surrounded by your closest family and friends, magnificent gardens and a backdrop of blue mountain skies, serene forest and flowing creeks, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The Twenty Mile House offers you all this in a fashion as “green” as the forest. They will even make your an expertly crafted organic wedding cake. This historic stage coach stop built in 1854 on the Middle Fork of the Feather River offers you and your guests an exclusive experience on a secluded 200 acre eco-estate, including beautiful gardens, private river access, charming facilities and accommodations, surrounded by serene forest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Twenty Mile House Inn & Retreat Center
PO Box 30001, 700 Old Cromberg Rd
Cromberg, CA 96103
Phone: 530-836-0375
info@thetwentymilehouse.com
www.thetwentymilehouse.com
In the lap of luxury and unspoiled wilderness lies Chalet View Lodge. With 49 guest rooms and cabins and 3,000 square feet of available conference space, adjacent to 1.2 million acres of public forest, it is an unforgettable wedding location. Take your vows amid expansive outdoor venues, featuring romantic outdoor fireplaces, and remarkable views. Everything you need for your special day is right here with an onsite spa and salon, full bar and The Grille restaurant. A memorable wedding awaits at 72056 Highway 70 near Graeagle. Say “I Do” at Chalet View Lodge.
Chalet View Lodge
72056 California Hwy 70
Portola, CA 96122
(530) 832-5528
www.chaletviewlodge.com
How about a western wedding at Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch? With accommodations to house eighty you can invite the whole posse to your event of a lifetime. In the woods as horses gallop by, by the water or indoors in the saloon you are sure to build memories that will last forever . Don’t worry your pretty little head none they will handle all the details including meal planning, catering, pre and post ceremony parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties, rehearsal night dinner, reception galas, officiator services, entertainment, lodging and even on-site daycare. Relax and seize your day.
Greenhorn Creek Guest Ranch
2116 Greenhorn Ranch Road
Quincy California, 95971
1-800-33-Howdy
On a day that should be full of sweet surprises Traci is in Quincy waiting to bake the wedding cake of your dreams. Would you prefer a traditional cake or one that’s topsy turvey and uniquely you? Whatever your wedding cake dream Traci’s Sweet Surprises will happily bake it come true.
503 Main Street
Quincy, CA 95971
530-283-1766
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By Rick Barlupi
There is a hidden treasure in Chico that is one of the largest U.S. producers of Sun Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil. Mooney Farms is built on a basis of using quality ingredients to create a line of gourmet healthy Mediterranean inspired Bella Sun Luci products at their plant in the Chico Airport business park. They won first place 2011 Innovation Award by the Food & Beverage Executive Magazine for their sun-dried tomato Bruschetta with fresh basil.
In 1994, Mooney Farms moved from Sonoma County to a larger production facility in Chico to meet the growing demand for their products. Recently remodeled and expanded, the 100,000 square foot rustic Italian style building surrounded by 200 year old olive trees offers visitors a beautiful tasting room and storefront. Sun dried tomatoes and olive oil have become their mainstream and the Mooney Family has winning recipes for their products on their website, www.mooneyfarms.com. There are over thirty authentic and easy to prepare recipes, my favorites are Stuffed Eggplant and Sun Dried Tomato Risotto.
In addition to having fantastic gourmet products, Mooney Farms is a great place to pick up gift baskets. For example, the Mediterranean Pantry ($45) includes their Bella Sun Luci Classic, Pesto, Ready to Eat Sun Dried Tomato Halves, California Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sun Dried Tomato Risotto, Dulcetto Chocolate Pastry, Pinot Grigio Salami, and Tuscan Olive Oil soap. Need a few ideas for Christmas? Visit their company store and the friendly staff will create your own custom baskets and ship them UPS or order on-line. Taste the award winning products and pickup holiday gifts at 1220 Fortress Street, Chico, (530) 899-2661. Store hours are Monday-Friday 10a.m. to 4p.m. year round.
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By Melissa Wynn
Welcome to the home base of Mountain Valley Living Magazine, the quaint and historic mountain community of Westwood. Just one mile off of Hwy 36 Westwood is a great stop for stepping back into a simpler time. A visit to the Westwood Museum in the 300 block of Ash St. tells the stories of our once thriving lumber mill and the amazing opera house that burned in the 1980′s. Just around the corner on 3rd St. looming carvings of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox stand guard as a reminder of the hard working loggers of old that pioneered this historic community.
Buffalo Chips for lunch or dinner is waiting one block away at 322 Birch St. with piping hot pizza on homemade crust, a wide variety of huge sandwiches, hearty homemade soups, salad bars and dessert just for fun. Open seven days a week, Ryan Gibbs and the gang are always happy to serve you.
Hospitality is the name of game at our classy bed & breakfast,The Walker Mansion Inn. Antique furnishings and some of the best quiche ever made make Walker Mansion a great home away from home after a busy day of outdoor fun. The Walker Mansion Inn was once the residence of the Walker family, founders of Westwood and the Red River Lumber Company. Upstairs, guest suites are immaculate and each decorated with a separate theme. It is a perfect place to hold a wedding or other special event as they have a giant lawn connecting to the garden. The guest suites overlook the grounds and beautiful scenes of Mountain Meadows and Dyer Mountain.
Supplies for all of your adventure are on hand at Lassen True Value and Young’s Supermarket along with Bigg’s Butchery at 323 Birch St. are happy to provide all the grocery and meat goodies to fill your coolers and RV refrigerators.
Kayaking on Walker Lake is a favorite pastime of locals like Jan Cox who shares this little piece of her adventure. “We paddled closer to where the pelicans had been and then stopped quickly. There on the shore, partially hidden by the reeds stood another large bird, bluish in color with long legs. Well camouflaged, the Great Blue Heron intently watched the water. Then swift as an arrow, it shot its long neck forward into the lake and rose again with a frog dangling from its bill. As we silently watched, the frog was jostled into position and swallowed down the long outstretched neck. We paddled away, leaving the heron to its lunch.” Jan Cox
Water not your thing? Land lovers tend to enjoy the peace of wandering the woods along the Bizz Johnson Trail that winds across the mountain beginning just outside Westwood and can be meandered all the way to Susanville. Breathtaking scenery and sweet serenity keep you company all the way.
Whether you prefer world class stream fishing in the Hamilton Branch of the Feather River or kayaking on glassy Walker Lake where the Osprey do their fishing Westwood is your place to stay, dine and play.
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By Melissa Wynn
Misty forested mountaintops and glistening Lake Almanor edge the unique community of Chester. The Hwy 36 causeway that leads you in from the east flutters with birds 365 days a year. A new menu of species is on and above the water minute by minute. Geese, pelicans, bald eagles, osprey and turkey vultures are just a few soaring or swimming by on any given day.
Bidwell House Bed & Breakfast overlooks this amazing aviary of nature and beckons come inside and stay awhile. The coffee is always hot and the rooms are always cozy. Winter cocoa by the crackling fire or a summer wedding on the lovely lawn make this a one home fits all four seasons hide away.
The Best Western Rose Quartz Inn in the heart of downtown Chester welcomes families on the go and groups of all sizes, a good hot breakfast is always on the house. The steaming hot tub and work out room are a great way to soak and stretch away the stresses of the day.
If you have not yet found yourself inside the Red Onion Grill at 384 Main Street for a meal, you are missing out on a great dining experience. From sliders, fish & chips and salads to tempura fried prawns or grilled steak and pastas, there is plenty of flavorful fare to choose from. Where else can you get free delivery of “To-Go” orders over $45 to Chester, Lake Almanor West, Pratville and the Lake Almanor Peninsula.
Happy Garden is just down the road a piece at 605 Main Street and the place to be if Chinese delights are what make your tongue sing. From mounds of Chow Mein to fiery Kung Pow and all Asian treats in between you need only tackle the difficult task of choosing a favorite.
Maria Walkers at the other end of town at 159 Main Street is like visiting the home of Aunt Maria for an amazing authentic Mexican meal. The staff is always sunny and happy you stopped by with your appetite. Large portions ensure you never leave hungry and the shrimp enchilada is a personal weakness of mine.
Countless activities surrounding Lake Almanor exterminate any chance of boredom. How about a day on a houseboat or jet skis rented from Majors Outpost on Lake Almanor’s breathtaking West Shore at Plumas Pines Resort inPrattville? Joe Majors and his fun loving crew are on the beach in the big green tent with everything you need for a day of fun on the water. Whether you want the speed of water skiing or a slow float and a sunbath on a patio boat Majors Outpost has you covered. Splish, splash, what a blast!
Hikers and cyclists be sure to check out the many trails that wind along the shady west shore offering forested path and a fresh lake view around each bend. Keep your eyes peeled for the deer, osprey, always chattering chipmunks and other forest critters surely waiting trailside to help brighten the beautiful day.
But don’t just come for the day, pack the tents and sleeping bags, load the RV and stay awhile at one of the many campgrounds that dot Lake Almanor’s 52 miles of stunning Sierra shoreline. Whether you spend a weekend birdwatching from North Shore Campground just outside Chester, spend a few weeks fishing from camp based at Rocky Point on the West Shore or prefer a cozy cabin on the East Shore at Lake Haven for the summer the lapping waves of Lake Almanor will be your nightly lullaby.
Round of golf anyone? Three pristine courses ensure there is one just minutes away. Bailey Creek Golf Course and Cottages allows you to stay and play among the rolling greens. Bailey Creek offers a challenge to golfers of all playing abilities. On this course you will find more than fifty sand bunkers, four shimmering lakes, inviting Kentucky blue grass fairways and impeccable penlink greens.
433 Durkin Drive
Lake Almanor, CA 96137
530-259-GOLF (4653)
Nestled in the pines Lake Almanor Country Club Golf Course is a semi private , nine hole course that is also open to the public. This upscale course is for the serious sportsman and appropriate golf attire is required. Rules and regulations are available online at akealmanorcountryclub.org.
501 Peninsula Drive
Lake Almanor, Ca
530-259-3282
Enjoy spectacular views of volcanic Mount Lassen when you tee off at Lake Almanor West Golf Course. This emerald gem of a 9 hole course has 6318 yard, par 72 forest lined fairways and with two very different sets of tee markers you will feel like you are playing 18 unique golf holes.
177 Lake Almanor West Drive
Lake Almanor, Ca
530-259-4555
With so much to see and do you may find yourself wanting to stay forever to explore the unmatched charm of our backyard Chester/Lake Almanor.
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By Melissa Wynn
I am always in awe of the wild and scenic Feather River as it winds along side of Hwy 89 on the way to Quincy from Greenville. The drop it makes at Indian Falls turn up the volume on the mesmerizing rush of these pristine rolling waters. Superior fishing and a picnic area makes Indian Falls a local’s favorite playground. The natural wonder known as St. Bernard Rock stands guard over the rugged canyon near the intersection with Hwy 70 from Chico. Marvelously engineered railroad bridges perch precariously on the mountainside leaving passersby wondering “How did those get way up there?” The journey to Quincy is scenically fascinating from either direction.
Once you arrive the close knit quality of this Sierra community is evident in every corner of this charming town. Tim Schooler is waiting with a friendly smile to serve you mouth watering street tacos at Timatillos, tucked away in Grover’s Alley. Tim’s signature dish steak tacos, carne asada style steak seasoned to perfection in a roasted red pepper sauce, atop double corn tortillas with diced onion, fresh cilantro and a thick lime wedge with beans and rice on the side is a party for the taste buds. The steak is melt in your mouth tender and that roasted red pepper sauce is divine. All six taco sauce choices at Timatillos are homemade and there is something for everyone.
A relaxing glass of wine from The Drunk Brush is at the ready right next door. This unique venue offers a wide variety of wines in classy little hang out. Drink all you like because lodging is available on site and check-in is as easy as asking the bartender for a room.
Now you are ready to kick back with a movie in your clean and comfortable room just upstairs at Quincy’s Courtyard Suites. Relax amid a pile of puffy pillows after a long soak in a deep claw foot tub. No cramped hotel room here, each uniquely decorated suite has a full kitchen, living area and even a wrought iron patio set just outside the door.
A visit to this little corner of Quincy wouldn’t be complete without a yummy organic breakfast at Pangea Cafe & Pub just across the street at 461 Main St. Organic is the general theme but you can still get a death by chocolate cheesecake. After all we need something to feed the soul. Local wines and micro-brew beers are also on the menu at Pangea Cafe & Pub. A full menu available online at pangeapub.com that includes sushi, some Thai dishes and even a $5 kids menu.
Another outstanding option for those who enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine is Mi Casita at 875 East Main Street. There is a wide variety of specials including seafood, and all of your classic Mexican dishes. Several American dishes including a good ole burger and fries are also available seven days a week. Breakfast begins at 6 a.m. bring a friend!
Welcome to Cafe Le Coq in downtown Quincy. Dine in the garden or in the quaint, old fashioned home restored into a welcoming cafe. Owner/Chef Patrick LeCoq and his wife Donata enjoy what they do and it shows. Patrick thoroughly enjoys preparing fresh appetizers, salads, soups and specialties of the house. The dinners are fabulous and reservations are recommended. Private parties are welcome. Lunch is served up in four courses, starting with a fresh appetizer. A wide choice of entrees are each preceded by homemade soup and followed by French dessert. Yes, Patrick is a Frenchman, obvious by his charming accent. You will love the food and the charm of Cafe Le Coq.
Shopping in downtown Quincy is a wonderful way to spend a lazy afternoon. The stroll down Main Street offers a wide variety of home town Mom and Pop type shops with everything from a quick office what not gift to fine art meant to be passed down for generations. Take your time and get to know the locals, experience the close knit quality of Quincy.
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The Mt Tomba Inn was originally built in 1924 to serve as a boarding house for employees of a nearby mill. Bootleg whiskey and wine were produced in the cellar. It became a dining establishment in 1934, owned by John Vardanega, who after prohibition, obtained the first liquor license issued by the State Board of Equalization. Until 1969, there was a running spittoon in the trough at the foot of the bar. The building housed legalized gambling including slots and blackjack. Vardanega was born in Italy at the foot of Mt. Tomba; that’s where the name came from.
The Duke himself stands tall in a photo pasted to the wall overlooking the bar. Bright red tablecloths against wooden walls and floors set the backdrop for this quaint old establishment, famous for their hand cut steaks. The place is filled with John Wayne movie memorabilia and is indeed serving up meals that would satisfy even “The Duke.” Two fireplaces provide a warmth only found by a real fire, one in the main dining room and one near those wishing to ‘belly up to the bar.’
Owners Susan Terry and Levi England are both chefs at Mt. Tomba Inn. The Flat Iron Steak featuring the owners’ own spicy Missouri dry rub is named “The Cowboys.” Filet Mignon is “The Quiet Man”, known for it’s tenderness. “Rio Bravo” is lightly breaded, grilled calamari. It seems all the entrees are named after John Wayne movies. A house specialty is Susan’s slow roasted, baby back ribs. She is proud of her recipe. Who wouldn’t be? These sweet, tender ribs have a slight ‘zing’ which greatly enhances the flavor of the spices she uses. These ribs are marinated for five days before they are slow roasted.
The line up of steaks also includes the rib eye, New York and chicken fried steak. Prime Rib is a house specialty and they offer a nice selection of seafood including lobster, and fowl (including pan fried chicken). Each meal comes with some really delicious homemade soup and fresh baked bread with real butter (always my favorite)! Dinners also include a salad with your choice of their fresh, homemade dressings. They all bring raves especially the house creamy garlic which one called a garlic lovers delight. You also get your choice of baked, mashed or fried potatoes or rice, plus coffee and dessert. Wow, no wonder the cowboys love this place. Susan is knows as the Martini Whisperer who shakes up just the perfect martini, every time. They have an excellent wine list and wines are also available by the glass. You can find a smiling Larry Binns behind a full bar with some fun drink specials and Ben Ricks is on hand ensuring you sincerely enjoy your dinner with “The Duke”.
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By Lorraine Shoemaker
One essential aspect of a successful camping experience is delicious, simple meals. There are many interesting options so I deciced to include one for each meal.
This breakfast recipe has been a favorite at home as well as camping. Before leaving home, precook 1 pound of sausage and chop 1 med onion. Put in plastic baggies for easy storage. At cook time spray an aluminum foil cooking bag with Pam, sprinkle with salt and pepper (and spices of choice) and add a pat or two of butter to bag. Add the prepared sausage and onions to bag, add 1 bag shredded hashbrowns, 6-8 eggs lightly beaten, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Close bag and mix by squeezing bag gently. Lay bag flat on medium hot grill. Cook to desired doneness about 10-15 minutes.
For lunch consider this simple pizza. Using flour tortillas, add tomato sauce, and toppings of your choice (leftovers work great) and sprinkle cheese on top. Cook in small frying pan with oil. These can be customized to each persons taste.
Dinner, after a long hard day of fun, should be hearty and easy to prepare. Make this cowboy casserole recipe even quicker by precooking (at home) 1/2 pound of bacon and crumble, brown hamburger and drain and chop onion. Place bacon, burger and onion in a plastic bag for later use. At cook time, cook onions until translucent, add precooked ingredients, stir in 2 cans of baked beans, and 1/3 cup BBQ sauce and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and place 1 can of buiscuits in a single layer over mixture. Cover and cook about 10 minutes or until done.
The fun part of most camping recipes is that they can be easily altered to fit individual preferences, so be creative and have fun. And after dinner it’s out to the campfire for those all-time favorites-Smores!
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By Melissa Wynn
From the golf course at Lake Almanor Mount Lassen makes a spectacular snow capped backdrop but up close and personal our friendly neighborhood volcano is a mysterious mountain indeed. A multicolored lake that boils and bubbling cauldron like mud pits are just two of the natural wonders to witness within Lassen Volcanic National Park. There are over 150 miles of hiking trails within the park which range in difficulty from a strenuous 5 mile round-trip hike up Lassen Peak to a gentle 1.85 mile stroll around Manzanita Lake. The Main Park Road provides incredible views of the Cascades and High Sierras, as well as access to crystalline mountain lakes and amazing steaming hydrothermal areas.
There are eight campgrounds containing over 450 sites within Lassen Volcanic National Park, and a large part of Lassen’s wilderness is available for camping in the wilderness with a free permit.
Staying over but not quite the tent type? Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins near the northwest park entrance twenty new camping cabins in three models. Each cabin includes beds, heater, lantern, bear proof box, fire ring and picnic table. ADA accessible cabins are also available. These simple digs also offer a camper package that is yours to use for the length of your stay. This thoughtful convenience includes a cook stove, cookware, untinsels, a cooler, firewood, ice, sleeping bags and even a smores kit for dessert. You can make reservations online at lassenrecreation.com or by telephone at (877) 444-6777. Camper package reservation requests can be made by Winter Phone (Nov-Apr): 530-200-4578, Summer Phone (May-Oct): 530-335-7557 or by email to ManzanitaLake@CalParksCo.com.
Majestic Mount Lassen can also be enjoyed in greater comfort at the famous resort known as Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Open only during summer, you can make a reservation online for your step back in time to a land of beautiful meadows, forest, lakes and streams. On your adventure, you can take part in a variety of activities. Take a horseback ride. Get a massage. Enjoy the steaming, natural hot spring pool. Take a hike or go fly fishing. Stay in one of their rustic cabins or in the lodge. Everyone loves Drakesbad. Both guests staying at the ranch and those lucky enough to get meal reservations have the privilege of treating their taste buds in the dining hall. Indoors, knotty pine paneling and picturesque window views set the scene. A bouquet of fresh flowers grace each table. Gas lanterns hang high on wooden walls. Pine green, ruffled curtains sit below shelves lined with mementos of life here since the 1860’s. Outdoors, a patio is set with more tables. Saddles are mounted nearby for restless children. Menus are planned in advance and sack lunches are available for the trail. Accommodations at Drakesbad include all of your meals. Reservations can be made by calling 530-258-9702. When we visited, the phones were not yet up, in which case you can contact the office at 530-529-1512 (Ext. 120). Find them online at www.drakesbad.com.
See first hand where earth’s melted center boils the mud while the barren top remains draped in snow, Mount Lassen year round wonder.
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By Melissa Wynn
Road trippin’ to Chico via Hwy 32 is a tour of unforgettable natural beauty. The mossy hillsides weep and sparkle and rushing Deer Creek winds along side offering world class trout fishing and camping options galore. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, relish the quiet and wet a line.
A detour up to Butte Meadows is the perfect stop for lunch or even a peaceful night stay with Bill and Stacy Kelso at the laid back and homey Butte Meadows Mercantile & Resort. Take your time, savor the scenery, seize the day.
At the bottom of the hill the forest parts and views of the stunning rugged canyon guide us into Chico, my favorite community to shop ’till I drop. Several galleries offer as many beauties for the eye as there are tastes of the beholder. My favorite by far are the unbelievably realistic hand blown jellyfish of delicate glass at Rick Satava’s Art Glass Studio at 819 Wall St. They look as though if you lifted the glass they would gracefully undulate away. Visitors are welcome not only to shop but also to visit the workshop and watch the glass blowers create amazing works of art from hot, molten glass.
Shopping can really work up an appetite and Chico has a nearly unlimited choice of dining options. My top three pics for 2012 are Original Pete’s at 2495 Carmichael Drive for primo pasta and gourmet pizza. Little bits of Italy are everywhere you look and the hospitality is on the house. Japanese Blossoms at 2995 Esplanade Suite #104 is known for the best sushi I’ve ever eaten. Hand made right before your eyes, every roll is a tongue tingling adventure. 5th Street Steakhouse at 345 W. 5th St. is my top choice for melt in your mouth steaks, mouthwatering treasures from sea and unrivaled service fit for king.
No adventurous visit to the Chico area would be complete without a visit to the amazing Barry Kirschner Wildlife Foundation between Chico and Oroville at 4995 Durham-Pentz Rd. Rescued and adopted wildlife unable to return to the wild for various reasons call this compassionate sanctuary home. Volunteers work tirelessly caring for tigers, lions, bears, birds, snakes and even a wallaby. Visitors are welcome Tuesday-Sunday from nine to five for self guided tours of this wild facility.
Unwind and put your feet up for the night at one of the many motel and B&B options available in Chico. We had a great time at the cozy Oxford Suites at 2035 Business Lane. Holiday Inn at 685 Manzanita Ave offers special rates for patients of Enlo Hospital and their families along with a friendly shuttle service for those patients unable to drive. Contributing writer for Mountain Valley Living Magazine Rick Barlupi suggests the luxurious Hotel Diamond at 220 West 4th Street, his top pick for 2012.
Shop, dine, stay and play. Create your own adventure, checkin’ out Chico.
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If you have ever been through the town of Graeagle, you were welcomed by quaint red buildings lining the highway that passes through town. If you ventured inside some of the red buildings, you may have found the wonderfully nostalgic candy shop and deli and the great folks who run it along with a row of quite unique gift shops and art galleries. If you came during the holidays, perhaps you took an old fashioned sleigh ride and sipped complimentary hot cider. A trip through the market will take you back in time and send you away with fresh cuts of meat from their old fashioned butcher shop.
A lake in the town center offers rentals of paddle boats and other toys by summer. A beautiful riding stable welcomes day trippers and the Graeagle Frosty is also open year round. It is not uncommon to see this tiny town filled with tourists meandering through its more than quaint downtown, even in the dead of winter. Year round recreation surrounds Graeagle as does world class golf and fishing opportunities.
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By Melissa Wynn
This month’s road trip takes us back to the ranch and out to a little piece of heaven, 40 miles west of Red Bluff, known as “R” Wild Horse Ranch.
I arrived early on a Sunday afternoon with my niece, Allyson, and nephew, Darin, in tow and eager to explore. After a quick check-in at the General Store (open to the public) and dropping our bags at our cabin we were off to meet Charli Hand for a prearranged tour of the spectacular 22 square miles that comprise “R” Wild Horse Ranch. Charli is a bubbly, charming lady and a prime example of the family atmosphere that permeates every acre of this outdoor adventure wonderland. She took the time to drive us around to get acquainted with the layout and to introduce us to all the main attractions.
The highlight of the tour for me was, hands down, the stable area and covered arena. Owners at “R” Wild delight in the free use of over 50 horses kept in this area for our enjoyment. I couldn’t wait to saddle up so Charli graciously arranged a trail ride for us the following morning. This was done by a friendly drive by conversation with another ranch owner/wrangler. No major formalities here; my kind of place.
In another area, kids of all ages were buzzing about on every kind of ATV and motorized toy you can imagine. I thought Darin would wiggle right out of his seat when we learned that the ranch has over 900 acres dedicated to miles of tracks and trails just for these sports. Boys will be boys.
Allyson was most impressed by the community recreation center; the social hub of the “R” Wild family. Activities abound here. How about a dip in the heated pool or hot tub? Perhaps the pool tables, foosball , board or video games are more for you. Basketballs hoops and tennis courts are on the menu of fun as well. Live music dances, hayrides and bingo are all thrown in there somewhere now and then just to mix it up. We spent our entire first evening at the happening recreation center and each made new friends. No strangers at “R” Wild Horse Ranch.
For those looking for some relaxation, a separate lodge just for adults, with its own heated pool, sits atop a hill with a breathtaking, sweeping view from the huge patio that reaches its peak at sunset. This area also houses the 20 room motel for those wanting more modern accommodations. These rooms and are available to owners and their guests for an unbelievable $20 per night.
As if that were not enough, Charli next took us to meet Jerry of Adrenaline Adventures, another owner, that is the go-to guy for a guided hunt for everything from Quail and Black Tail Deer to Wild Boar and Black Bear. Of course “R” Wild has shooting and archery ranges for target practice and even skeet shooting for those that prefer a non-living, moving target. They thought of everything.
Adding to the experience for lovers of the outdoors, Beegum Creek runs through the ranch and this where the kids and I opted to enjoy the picnic dinner that we’d brought along, just us and the dragonflies. The road in was a little rough for my small car but no real worries. When I left through the gate, Brian, from security, assured me that he would be along to make sure we made it out safely before dark. What a caring staff! Beegum Creek is great for fishing or splashing around in one of the swimming holes. More fishing is available in the always-stocked Tom Sawyer Pond in yet another gorgeous area of this gated outdoor paradise.
Long after dark, wet from our late night dip in the pool, we returned to our simple cabin (twin beds for five and a half-bath). We read awhile from the books we borrowed from the rec center. We soon drifted off to dreamland to the melody of the frog and cricket song; a soothing end to our fun filled day.
Early the next morning we met with Bernadette at the stables for our unforgettable trail ride. The staff carefully chose the gentlest mounts for Darin and Ally since they are beginners and at the ranch safety is priority number one. Four thousand acres of “R” Wild Horse Ranch are dedicated to unrivaled equestrian adventure. Bernadette chose a route that graced us with outstanding views, narrow trails, hills to climb and creek beds to cross just to ensure that we got a taste of each terrain there is to choose from. I wished it would never end.
“R” Wild Horse Ranch has something for everyone that loves to play outside. I thought the price to become an owner with a deeded interest was simply unbelievable. For a down payment of $2500 and $985 in annual fees, one can become an owner and part of the “R” Wild family. Unlike a timeshare that allows you to visit a few weeks a year, “R” Wild is yours and you are free to visit as often you like, whenever you like. Ownership allows you (and your guests for $20 per night) to enjoy all the amenities including the horses, shower houses, community kitchens, playground and so much more. Owners are also welcome to store their RVs, horse trailers, ATV ect. free of charge in a security monitored fenced in area. I was informed on the tour that ”With 156 RV sites with full hook ups, 148 cabins, the motel and campgrounds availability has never been an issue”. For the most economical way, ”R” Wild Horse Ranch is certainly my personal top pick of the summer, enjoy it all in Northern California. We had a blast.
Interested in owning a little piece of heaven? Local realtor® Charli Hand can further help you at 1-866-726-2494 where you can even schedule a tour that includes a complimentary 1 night/2 day stay. See for yourself how much “R” Wild Horse Ranch offers for so little. Visit their website at www.rwildhorseranch.net. The ranch is located at at 6700 Hwy 36. approximately 40 miles west of Red Bluff.
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Plumas Pines Golf Resort ~ 402 Poplar Valley Rd. - P.O. Box 1210 Graeagle, CA 96103 ~ (530) 836-1420
If a road trip is in order and you’re into golf, then a trip over to Graeagle may be just the ticket for you. There are several fabulous golf courses in the area if you are up for a little course-hopping.
We especially liked the opportunity to build one’s own “Stay, Play & Dine Package” at some of the great golf resorts in the area. We opted to explore a spectacular golf excursion at Plumas Pines Resort in Graeagle. A stay in one of the villas on Plumas Pines Golf Resort is a great choice. From the vast views and perfect touches to the golf course homes, you will enjoy life on the course and if you spend a week on the course, you just may be back to stay one day. The beautiful greens spread across a championship 18 hole golf course that will entice you back, no doubt, again and again. The top notch facility, along with their friendly staff and award winning cuisine from Longboards Bar & Grill on the premises will make your stay even better.
Whether or not you decide to stay on the premises, be sure to plan for dinner at Longboard’s Bar and Grill. It is fabulous! Chef Sean Conry puts out a beautiful spread for special occasions and serves up some amazing cuisine for lunch and dinner daily. Longboards Bar & Grill is open 7 days a week from noon to 9:00 p.m. for lunch and dinner. They are currently taking reservations for the 2011 season for individual and group reservations. You can call them at 530-836-1111 to make your reservations, or with any inquiries or questions.
The staff at Plumas Pines will be happy to set up your package with a stay in one of the 2, 3, or 4 bedroom villas available on the golf course. There are other vacation rentals available also if you prefer a mountain hideaway. Plumas Pines also partners with River Pines Resort and Chalet View Lodge. River Pines Resort is in downtown Graeagle, within walking distance to horseback riding, shops, dining and swimming in Graeagle Mill Pond, which is located in the heart of downtown Graeagle.
When you meet the pro, Brandon Bowling, and his assistant Kyle, you’ll know your golf vacation is in good hands. When you meet your chef, Sean Conry, you will begin to understand why the food is so delicious. That is his passion. A stop in the lounge will deliver amazing views and you never know who may meet next at Plumas Pines Golf Resort.
really nice golf shop has a very\\on the play system play list with golf digest for the last 10 years.
scenic all holes unique, quite quick yet fun and good for all abilities.
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Courtesy of Plumas County Visitors Bureau Quincy, Ca
1) At Keddie, six miles west of Quincy, stands they only railroad wye in the world with two legs on bridges and a closing track in a tunnel. This imposing structure, known as the Keddie Wye, was the scene of Western Pacific’s “Last Spike” ceremony on November 1, 1909. The wye stands high above the waters of Spanish Creek. The town of Keddie was named after Arthur W. Keddie, the original surveyor of the railroad route through the Feather River Canyon.
2) Just east of the wye is the Keddie yard. It’s construction required that the side of a mountain be excavated. Because of the railroad direction specified by rule and the many reverse curves in the area, two trains passing each other in opposite directions at Keddie are actually moving eastward.
3) Six miles east of Keddie is Quincy Junction, the connection to Quincy via the Quincy Railroad Co. Western Pacific’s charter required that mainline grade not exceed one percent. The railroad survey placed it high above the beautiful American Valley at the junction and it was impossible to route the railroad onto the valley floor without violating the charter. It required a grade of nearly four percent to bring the Quincy Railroad Co. up to mainline level.
4) Just a few miles east of the Massack rest area, is one of the most unique bits of railroad construction in North America. Called Williams Loop, the railroad track makes a continuous one mile loop in a one percent grade to gain altitude. Crossing over itself, the track gains the necessary elevation required. Tangent track required a four percent grade in this area and was eliminated as soon as Williams Loop was completed. In many cases, long trains cross over themselves.
5) At Spring Garden, a 7,344 foot tunnel penetrates the divide at Lee Summit. The tunnel transfers the railroad from the North Fork Feather River Drainage to the Middle Fork. Arthur Keddie’s survey proved that the North Fork Drainage would accommodate a one percent railroad grade, while the extremely rugged nature of the Middle Fork country made railroading impractical in that area.
This amazing bore cuts through the Jura River Channel which is rich in placer gold. During construction it was nearly impossible to keep the underground miners at work on the tunnel, once they discovered the gold in the ancient river gravel.
6) After leaving the fringes of Mohawk Valley, the Union Pacific Railroad crosses Willow Creek on a tremendous viaduct of steel just east of Blairsden. This breathtaking structure known as the Clio Trestle is 172 feet high and 1005 feet long and the view from it’s deck is amazing. Looking south and west is a vast panorama of surrounding mountain peaks guarding Mohawk Valley. Under the bridge are the last vestiges of Plumas County’s first railroad, the narrow gauge Sierra Valley & Mohawk R.R. right of way.
Portola is the gateway to the Feather River Line. This nearly mile high town is flanked by mountains and is the Union Pacific crew change point. Railroad buffs from all over the world visit the Portola Railroad Museum where you can view displays, inspect historic trains, and even drive a locomotive. Train rides in cabooses and vista flat cars round a one mile track are available during the summer. The museum can be reached at 530-832-4131 or www.WPLives.org.
7) East of Portola at Chilcoot is a 6,002 foot tunnel that penetrates the Sierra and brings the Union Pacific out onto the desert at Reno Junction. The mainline continues eastward along the Smoke Creek and Black Rock deserts through an endless sea of sand and sagebrush to Salt Lake City.
While you’re exploring the 7 Wonders be sure to also see:
- Pulga and Tobin bridges, railroad and highway bridges stacked on top of each other in the Feather River Canyon on Highway 70.
Plumas County Museum, Industrial Wing in Quincy, features steam and diesel railroad exhibits.
Photos courtesy of Plumas County Visitors Bureau
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By Melissa Wynn
Sometimes the everyday pressures of life become overwhelming and we need to get away for awhile to get a fresh perspective. On a sunny May afternoon, a girlfriend and I loaded up an overnight bag and went in search of the sound of silence. After soaking in the beauty of the forest along Hwy 36, we decided to turn on Hwy 172 at Mineral and see what Mill Creek Resort, just 5 miles off Hwy 36, had to offer. I had often heard they make a great burger. The minute I stepped out of the car in the parking lot, I knew we were in the right place. A warm breeze caressed my face and the only sounds were a soothing gurgle from the brook behind the cabins and the call of a bossy blue jay announcing our arrival. The air was thick with the scent of the pines awakening from the long snowy winter and my spirits were instantly lifted.
Upon entering the main building that houses the store, restaurant/soda fountain and cabin/RV/tent site check-in and post office, I immediately felt at home. Owner Georgene Neher greeted us with a sunny smile; like we were old friends she was excited to see again. Her jolly husband and co-owner, Terry, was in the back flipping burgers. The hearty aromas that filled the room quickly reminded my tummy that it was lunch time. I chose the Lassen Bacon Cheeseburger ($6.95), slathered in sweet BBQ sauce, with the works and fries ($2). Lorraine opted for the Creekside Club ($7.95), a thick turkey blt, with a pile of Terry’s crispy onion rings ($2.95). Although we could have lunched on the sunny deck that overlooks the playground and grassy alpine meadow, I was moved to stay indoors and study the unique decor of this simple laid-back mountain getaway. Terry has a large collection of M&M memorabilia that has taken him several years to acquire. Return guests often gift him additions to his fun jumble of M&M characters. The antique cook stove and cooler whisper that little changes in this quiet, hidden place, but the visitors, like us, building their own mountain memories.
After lunch, Lorraine and I spent several hours sitting on the tiny bridge behind our cabin, dangling our feet above the dancing water, relishing the songs of birds, frogs and the healing silence we had set out to find.
As the day grew later, we decided to drive down Hwy 172 to see what we would find. What a score! Just a few bends in the road from Mill Creek Resort is the turnoff to ‘Hole In The Ground Campground’ and the beginning of the long trek into the mysterious Ishi Wilderness. I wished we had come this way in time to go down and wander about. Oh well, maybe next time. Another mile or two down the winding Hwy 172 we were thrilled to come across a thundering falls. We made our visit when spring run-off is at its peak, so the falls were in their prime. These majestic falls often run strong into mid July, during years following good snowfall. This year they are sure to flow well into summer. WooHoo! We parked the car and sat on the ledge, right at the base, for a long time, letting this marvel in nature dampen our shoes with droplets and mist created by waters rough tumble down the hillside. WOW! Moss covered rocks and slick, weeping walls dot the sides of the road along the way as Hwy 172 winds back up to Hwy 36 at the Mineral Lodge. We made another roadside stop just before the intersection, to listen to a chorus of frogs that sounded hundreds strong. The whole mountain wildlife population seemed to be celebrating the arrival of the summer season.
Back at our simple creekside cabin, we heated a can of soup in the fully stocked kitchen and curled up on the futon to look through photos we snapped throughout the day. They were post card beauties, one after another, and we didn’t even venture up to nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park. Please visit our website, mountainvalleyliving.com, to view the full album from our road trip. Eventually, the lure of our waiting log beds enticed us to crawl in beneath the quilts and rest our dreamy heads on the puffy pillows.
Before departing we chatted with Terry awhile about the many creeks nearby that draw fly fisherman from around the globe. Mill Creek itself is catch and release only, but several “keeper” creeks are but a stone,s throw away, including Battle and Deer Creeks. I have a hard time imagining a better meal than a fresh trout from an icy mountain stream, cooked over a campfire, in a shady campsite, at Mill Creek Resort.
Cabin rates are reasonable, beginning at $80 nightly for a one bedroom unit and topping out at $660 for an entire week in a two bedroom unit with up to four people. RV rates for full hook ups are $25 daily, $150 weekly and a month will only run you $325. $300 for three or more months. The campground sites are $16 nightly, with a two vehicle/ eight person limit. Public showers, flush toilets and plenty of water are available on site.
Georgene and Terry have been at Mill Creek Resort for well over 25 years. They started this year round getaway with their parents and raised their two children, daughter, Kelly and son, Jake, at Mill Creek Resort. They are still there today waiting to take your reservation to experience their gracious hospitality; whether you visit for summer fishing or endless winter play.Visit their website millcreekresort.net or give them a call at 888-595-4449 and build your own treasured mountain memories at Mill Creek Resort.
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by Eileen Majors
When you get the opportunity to head down off the mountain in the springtime, it is a good time to stay and enjoy all the signs of spring that seem to come so much earlier just an hour and a half from the Lake Almanor area.
We decided to take a short ride up Highway 5 to Anderson. After all, spring is also a great time to visit the Jolly Giant Flea Market in Anderson as we have not yet seen the long-awaited warm weather rush of yard sales in the mountains.
Having heard about a lovely “green hotel” on highway 5, I was anxious to see the place. We drove in, past a rather crowded parking lot, which we soon realized was due to the fabulous Woodside Grill, a restaurant and lounge located on the property.
We stopped in at the lobby to get our keys and headed back around to our room. The building was circular in shape and ground floor rooms each had a balcony. Ours overlooked the pond where swimming swans welcomed us from our sliding glass door. Natural fibers and a well-appointed design defined the room.
The grounds were already blooming with signs of spring. Beautiful herb gardens included fabulous, fragrant rosemary bushed, one of my favorites! I lingered to absorb the fresh aroma. We walked across the whimsical red bridge for dinner to be seated at the Woodside Grill. The cuisine features grilled steaks, chicken and fish with a varied selection of ‘comfort foods’.
They proudly feature locally grown and produced ingredients from farmers and ranchers in the area. The offer a varied selection of wines from the indigenous and spectacular vineyards of Shasta, Butte and Trinity Counties.
Our dinners were fabulous and the service was outstanding. Our dessert choices included Creme Brule, Mile-High Chocolate Cake, Woodside Cheesecake of Leatherby’s local creamery ice cream. Oh, the choices! We could see our swans beckoning us back to the room, out the window, across the pond glimmering with the evening lights. We took our cheesecake to go, for a seat on our patio. We rested extremely well among comfortable bedding of natural fibers and lovely views outside our door.
I would highly recommend a meal at the Woodside Grill and a stay in the environmentally innovative Gaia Shasta Hotel & Spa. The are located at 4125 Riverside Place in Anderson, CA and can be reache at (530) 365-7077. You can also visit them at their website : gaiashasta.com
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By Melissa Wynn
As I lounge amid a tumble of puffy pillows in in my big brass bed at Quincy Courtyard Suites in downtown Quincy, my mind drifts through our soothing day of play. After cruising from home along the icy East Shore of Lake Almanor we meandered through mystical Indian Valley. We then followed Highway 89 along the Feather River past mother nature’s sculpture of St. Bernard Rock. We turned through the pine tree lined route to view the nostalgic Twin Bridges of the railroad that seem to precariously perch on the steep mountainside just after turning onto Hwy 70.
Finally we wound our way in to Quincy and stopped to visit with Barbara Newman at the Drunk Brush Wine Bar and check into our home for the night. She manages the wine bar and Quincy’s Courtyard Suites.
With no hurries on this road trip, we enjoyed a glass in this charming little wine bar with a constantly changing selection of fine wines, imported beer and plenty of friendly, hometown company. After our glass of wine, Barbara led us through the lovely courtyard, dressed in wrought iron with a N ew Orleans feel. We ventured up the spiral staircase into the sprawling living room of our suite where we were welcomed by a cozy gas fireplace. The fully equipped kitchen briefly tempted me to have dinner in, but Pangea Cafe and Pub is right across the street and I knew they were having live music. No cooking for me! The two living room sofas proved perfect for sprawling after dinner, with a movie from the entertainment center.
After a long soak in the claw foot bathtub, I grabbed my computer to pound out the details of my day and evening, which included a trip to Pangea Cafe and Pub. We enjoyed lovely accommodations, a great musical event and some of the fun that comes with a stay in the small, friendly town of Quincy. May you enjoy a trip to Quincy and the suite dreams that ended my day at the Quincy Courtyard Suites. To book your stay, contact Barbara at (530) 283-1401 or take a virtual tour of the tastefully decorated studio, one bedroom and two bedroom suites available at Quincy Courtyard S uites online at quincycourtyardsui tes.com Relaxation awaits you!
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Welcome to Quincy Courtyard Suites
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Lovely Courtyard
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Huge living area
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Drunk Brush Wine Bar/Check-in
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Courtyard
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Big brass bed
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By Eileen Majors
While searching out some of our BEST ROAD TRIPS for this edition, we were taken back to Truckee, CA for more good times remembered on the Mountain Valley Living adventures. Turns out good things happen when you revisit the past.
My friend and I strolled into downtown Truckee long after Melissa Wynn’s s story about her stay here had been published. Thanks to Melissa’s prior work, we were welcomed back with great favor. We grandly enjoyed our stay in downtown Truckee. I spoke with Tim, owner of the Truckee Hotel, from the lobby of this quaint downtown establishment. It was like talking to an old friend on the phone. We ventured out for dinner at Casa Baez. Once again we were treated like old friends, as the host explained to us how he just read our magazine last week.
The Truckee Hotel has a variety of rooms available. Rooms include both European style and those with full bath facilities. We liked being right downtown where we could walk to shops and dinner. The hotel is adorned with quaint antiques and has some fabulous paintings of Truckee in the lobbies you may wish to check out. We were comfy and warm with TV, internet and fabulous views of the mountains and downtown district. We enjoyed a magnificent dinner at Pacific Crest across the street from our hotel. We enjoyed the mountain views and seeing passengers get off the train right in downtown Truckee.
While we were venturing about, looking around for a story, we happened by chance to meet Angele Thibodeau of Truckee. She works in one of the local shops. Angele is a painter whose work is displayed locally. She is also a singer who performs in the area. As we got to talking, she shared her love for writing and soon we had a meeting planned for the next day. We are now happy to have Angele on staff as a journalist and advertising representative for Mountain Valley Living serving the Truckee area. As we said, good things happen sometimes when you revisit the past. We hope you enjoy reading about all of our road trips at MountainValleyLiving.com.
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By Eileen Majors
It has been a fun time over the past three-plus years traveling the roads of Nor Cal and into Nevada Territories to bring you the ROAD TRIP section of our magazine. I once had a young lady in Susanville tell me she brought the magazine to her parents exclaiming, “I have lived here ALL my life and you have NEVER taken me to any of these places in this magazine!” She laughed as she shared the story, as did I. It is our hope that those who live in or vacation in our neck of the woods will find more places to explore and more reasons to recreate here, to visit the businesses and to enjoy the vast outdoor opportunities.
This month we are featuring Best Road Trips. Last month we featured Best Romantic Getaways and in January we featured Best Outdoor Adventures. Stop by our booth at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center during the Reno Outdoor Sports and Recreation Expo to pick up a copy of each. Read all of our back issues online, or click on Road Trips to see more great trips we’ve taken. Click on Dining to check out all the dining hot spots we have visited so far. Let us know what your favorites are on our blog at mountainvalleyliving.com.
MountainValleyLiving.com
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Some scenic beauties are great for those who want to take an actual hike of several miles; while others are perfect for those who wish to simply take a break from the road and stretch their legs, rest their eyes with a new vista, and perhaps take a photo or three to add to an album or send to someone. Deer Creek, along Highway 32 in Tehama County, provides opportunities for both. With both an Upper and Lower Deer Creek Falls (with elevations below 4,000 feet), the usual season of March through August allows plenty of time to take advantage of this northern California scenery. For those heading down Deer Creek from Highway 36 in Lassen and Plumas counties to Highway 32, watch for the turnoffs to the upper falls and the lower falls on the left side.
After Elam Campground, and shortly before Potato Patch Campground, a “Deer Creek Falls” sign on the left indicates a small turnout for about 4-5 cars for the upper falls. Across the road on the right is a hill covered mostly with deciduous trees. This falls is the closest to the road- just a few hundred feet down a fairly steep incline to the rocks above the falls. It is a bit more of a clamber down to the creek at the base of the falls, and is not recommended for the casual stop. The 12 foot drop of the falls is not huge for a straight-drop falls, but is nevertheless a very different view than you get of Deer Creek from the road. The multi-colored lichens and mosses nestled into the rock overhang on the far side of the falls are very interesting and add to the peculiar beauty of this falls. Many kinds of vegetation surround the area. Do watch for poison oak.
The trailhead for the 3,000 foot elevation Lower Deer Creek Falls is on the Chester side of the rust-colored steel-trussed bridge–the turnout is just before reaching the bridge. I have not yet hiked the 3.5 mile round trip to the lower falls myself, but the trail leads downstream on the right side of the creek to the 20-foot cascading falls and fish ladder. The trail is reputedly well maintained during the season, and is of moderate difficulty with gradual ups and downs. This is said to be a more spectacular falls, so if you have plenty of time to take the longer trail, be sure your camera is ready to roll. Your pack should contain water, of course, and a picnic lunch might be in order.
For more information about both of the Deer Creek Falls, and safety precautions, call the Almanor Ranger District office at (530) 258-2141. Enjoy your short “breather” or your longer hike!
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Lost Trail Lodge by Angele Thibodeau
Turning onto the dirt road headed into Coldstream Canyon, you would never expect to find the sort of accommodations that await your destination. My first time headed to the Lost Trail Lodge, I was on my way to the annual Blue Grass Festival they hold the first week of June each year. We parked the pick-up truck by the railroad tracks and hiked our way in. Crossing swollen streams overflowing with melted snow run-off, we balanced on makeshift log bridges and were even being ferried across by a boat and pulley system.
When I first saw the Lost Trail Lodge, I felt as though I had finally come home. We took a tour of the cozy cabin bedrooms with jacuzzi tubs, high ceilings, a roaring stone fireplace, and even a solar powered generator. The Lost Trail Lodge runs almost completely on solar power. David, the man responsible for building and designing the Lost Trail Lodge, is a man of vision, a grandfather, and a talented musician. His daughter Lindsey has a warm smile, is a gracious hostess, and amazing at making salads (I speak from personal experience). You may even be so lucky as to hear his granddaughter Kiely’s rendition of “You Are My Sunshine” played on her fiddle.
The Bluegrass Festival was amazing. Talented bands such as ‘Wild Mountain Honeys’, ‘The Bearded Fat Guys’, Ragged Rogues’, ‘West Wind’ and the “South Yuba String Band’ kept people dancing, while graceful ladies carried around plates filled with yummy slices of watermelon. This is one of many happenings at the Lost Trail Lodge. The first Saturday of every month they host smaller musical events that all are invited to attend.
They also have stable and tack rooms if you want to bring your horses. You can hike, mountain bike, fish at the nearby Donner Ponds, or sit by a stream and read. The Lost Trail Lodge is located only four miles from the Pacific Crest Trail, so hiking is available. In the winter time, there is snow shoeing, cross country skiing, as well as back country alpine skiing, and even ice climbing. Some people have even chosen to be married at this wooded sanctuary. To me the Lost Trail Lodge feels like my family cabin, with all the comforts of home and the embrace and beauty of mother nature. If you feel like a weekend getaway in one of the most enchanting places in the Sierra Nevadas, the Lost Trail Lodge is it! The website is www.losttraillodge.com and the phone number is (530) 320-9268. I’ll look forward to seeing you there sitting around the campfire making s’mores.
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If you are looking for a quiet getaway for two in the midst of the beautiful forest in a gorgeous National Park, Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Mt. Lassen National Park is an amazing choice for summer romance.
PLOT YOUR ESCAPE
Sometimes you just have to make your escape. Amidst household chores and honey-do lists, it might be hard to plan your departure but this romantic getaway is worth planning ahead for and planning ahead is always a good idea at Drakesbad. Open only during summer, you can make a reservation online for your step back in time to a land of beautiful meadows, forest, lakes and streams. On your adventure, you can take part in a variety of activities. Take a horseback ride. Get a massage. Enjoy the pool. Take a hike or go fly fishing. Stay in one of their rustic cabins or in the lodge. Everyone here loves Drakesbad; it was a unanimous vote for our BEST ROMANTIC GETAWAYS edition. Read about our trips to Drakesbad at MountainValleyLiving.com Excerpts from our article in August of 2008:
THE CEMENT POND – SOOTHING HOT SPRINGS WATER
Just off the deck of our little cabin was a path leading past acres of snow cabbage and roaming deer to a sparkling hot springs pool. To look at it, one would not notice much difference between it and the pool at a fine, major hotel chain. Stacks of towels and several dressing rooms are ready for guests as are plenty of lounge chairs on thick green grass. The difference: The pool is fed by a continual stream of hot springs water. In the evening, the temperature of the pool is kept much warmer and the steam through the darkness of night seems to provide extra doses of tranquility. From the pool, you can hear the quiet rumble of little waterfalls along Hot Springs Creek, which runs beside the pool area. The water in the creek is not warm.
HIKING TRAILS, FISHING AND TRANQUILITY
There are several marked trails and wonders to see including Boiling Springs Lake and Devil’s Kitchen. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses just above the pool. Drakesbad is the near midway point for hikers traveling between Mexico and Canada. The original sign on the dining hall reads, “Mexico: 1348 miles; Canada: 1410 miles.” There are several hikes to choose from at Drakesbad and plenty a view along the way.
DINING AT DRAKESBAD
“Clang, Clang”, goes the dinner bell. Both guests staying at the ranch and those lucky enough to get meal reservations begin meandering back towards the dining hall. Indoors, knotty pine paneling and picturesque window views set the scene. A bouquet of fresh golden lilies, yellow daisies and red carnations add color to each table. Gas lanterns hang high on wooden walls. Pine green, ruffled curtains sit below shelves lined with mementos of life here since the 1860’s. Outdoors, a patio is set with more tables. Saddles are mounted nearby for restless children. Menus are planned in advance and sack lunches are available for the trail. Accommodations at Drakesbad include all of your meals.
Reservations can be made by calling 530-258-9702. When we visited, the phones were not yet up, in which case you can contact the office at 530-529-1512 (Ext. 120). Find them online at www.drakesbad.com.
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BEST OF MVL ….Check out this HOT SPRINGS SPA
Take me back to Steamboat.. by Melissa Wynn
Housed in a charming Spanish Mission style building between Reno and Carson City on US 395, I found a place of healing peace.
As we pulled onto the narrow frontage road that leads to the parking area, I could see steam rising from the ground in several places between the sagebrush. Just across from the main entry a piping hot stream flows down the hill giving you a natural preview of the mineral-rich hot spring waters waiting inside. We made our way into and decided on the“Day at the Spa” ($176) from their extensive menu which added a detoxifying herbal mud wrap to our Steamboat Signature Massage and Mineral Bath.
During the 1800′s Mark Twain rode past on the original Virginia City-Truckee Railroad and saw two, now inactive, geysers belching plumes of steam and boiling water toward the sky. The famous author, familiar with travel on the Mississippi River, commented that it looked like a steamboat in the desert and the name Steamboat Hot Springs stuck.
A serene salt water fish tank in the lobby sits near the colorful sun-shaped stained glass windows of the private soaking rooms. Just like the color spectrum, the rooms graduate from light blue at the beginning of the hall to bright red at the end. I had my hour long Salt Glow soak ($60 ala carte) in the light blue room in an incredibly deep tile tub. AAHHHH! How refreshing. Cozy bath robes and slippers are provided for your convenience and swimsuits are required in the outdoor hot tub.
Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center and Spa offers access to the healing mineral hot springs by the soak or in package deals like the monthly specials you will find online. There are several facial treatments,a wide selection of massage techniques, the mud wrap, and a new ground breaking therapy called sonatherapy that utilizes light, color and primarily sound to treat problem areas at a cellular level. The flexible menu offers many different treatments and allows you to mix and match for your specific needs. The competent staff includes Dr. Thomas Lee, a Naturopathic Medical Doctor and consultants for everything from nutrition to make-overs. What a great place to have some quality time with the women in your life that matter most. I left feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.
Book online at steamboatsprings.org.
or call (775) 853-6600
Currently, Steamboat Hot Springs Healing Center & Spa in Reno is the only authorized institution in the world researching and developing the science of Sonatherapy.
Read our original story in its entirety at MountainValleyLiving.com
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By Melissa Wynn
When the air outside is so cold that it sparkles, many of us are drawn to the warmth of a crackling fire at a favorite romantic hot spot. My suggestion for this month is the quiet and cozy Bidwell House Inn in Chester, CA. Snuggled in at the edge of the meadow off the tip of Lake Almanor’s north shore, this quaint bed & breakfast offers lakeside wildlife viewing as well as the conveniences of being in town. The antique furniture and old-time decor add a taste of nostalgia to the mountain cabin feel so prevalent at the Bidwell House Inn. This intimate atmosphere is ideal for opening hearts and exchanging the vows of matrimony. Several wedding packages are available by visiting bidwell.com or calling 530-258-3338 including…..
Just for the Two
 Outdoor or indoor ceremony
Wedding Consultant
Ceremony with special vows for just the two of you
Champagne, wine or non-alcoholic Toast
Available year ’round
$495
Wedding & Honeymoon
2 nights lodging in one of our romantic guest rooms with king-sized bed and double Jacuzzi tub, three-course gourmet breakfast, wine and gourmet chocolates.
Outdoor or indoor ceremony – up to 15 guests
Wedding Consultant
Bride’s rose bouquet and Groom’s boutonniere
Ceremony with special vows for just the two of you
Champagne, wine or non-alcoholic toast
Available year ’round
$895
Dreams Come True
2 nights lodging in one of our romantic guest rooms with king-sized bed and double Jacuzzi tub, three-course gourmet breakfast, wine and gourmet chocolates.
Outdoor or indoor ceremony – up to 15 guests
Wedding Consultant
Bride’s rose bouquet and Groom’s boutonniere
Ceremony with special vows for just the two of you
Champagne, wine or non-alcoholic toast
Wedding cake and service
“Endless Romance” package for the bride including hot stone massage and deluxe facial
Available year ’round’
$1,295
Romantic getaway or saying “I Do,” love is blooming at Bidwell House Inn.
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If you are looking for a quiet getaway for two in the midst of the beautiful forest in a gorgeous National Park, Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Mt. Lassen National Park is an amazing choice for summer romance.
PLOT YOUR ESCAPE
Sometimes you just have to make your escape. Amidst household chores and honey-do lists, it might be hard to plan your departure but this romantic getaway is worth planning ahead for and planning ahead is always a good idea at Drakesbad. Open only during summer, you can make a reservation online for your step back in time to a land of beautiful meadows, forest, lakes and streams. On your adventure, you can take part in a variety of activities. Take a horseback ride. Get a massage. Enjoy the pool. Take a hike or go fly fishing. Stay in one of their rustic cabins or in the lodge. Everyone here loves Drakesbad; it was a unanimous vote for our BEST ROMANTIC GETAWAYS edition. Read about our trips to Drakesbad at MountainValleyLiving.com Excerpts from our article in August of 2008:
THE CEMENT POND – SOOTHING HOT SPRINGS WATER
Just off the deck of our little cabin was a path leading past acres of snow cabbage and roaming deer to a sparkling hot springs pool. To look at it, one would not notice much difference between it and the pool at a fine, major hotel chain. Stacks of towels and several dressing rooms are ready for guests as are plenty of lounge chairs on thick green grass. The difference: The pool is fed by a continual stream of hot springs water. In the evening, the temperature of the pool is kept much warmer and the steam through the darkness of night seems to provide extra doses of tranquility. From the pool, you can hear the quiet rumble of little waterfalls along Hot Springs Creek, which runs beside the pool area. The water in the creek is not warm.
HIKING TRAILS, FISHING AND TRANQUILITY
There are several marked trails and wonders to see including Boiling Springs Lake and Devil’s Kitchen. The Pacific Crest Trail crosses just above the pool. Drakesbad is the near midway point for hikers traveling between Mexico and Canada. The original sign on the dining hall reads, “Mexico: 1348 miles; Canada: 1410 miles.” There are several hikes to choose from at Drakesbad and plenty a view along the way.
DINING AT DRAKESBAD
“Clang, Clang”, goes the dinner bell. Both guests staying at the ranch and those lucky enough to get meal reservations begin meandering back towards the dining hall. Indoors, knotty pine paneling and picturesque window views set the scene. A bouquet of fresh golden lilies, yellow daisies and red carnations add color to each table. Gas lanterns hang high on wooden walls. Pine green, ruffled curtains sit below shelves lined with mementos of life here since the 1860’s. Outdoors, a patio is set with more tables. Saddles are mounted nearby for restless children. Menus are planned in advance and sack lunches are available for the trail. Accommodations at Drakesbad include all of your meals.
Reservations can be made by calling 530-258-9702. When we visited, the phones were not yet up, in which case you can contact the office at 530=529-1512 (Ext. 120). Find them online at www.drakesbad.com.
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Surprise Hot Springs Suite
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WOW! How had I not heard the scoop on this place before? From the initial phone conversation with Nikki from Surprise Valley Hot Springs to set up an interview, I knew I was in for a real treat. Surprise Valley Hot Springs is located on Hwy. 299, 5 miles east of the town of Cedarville in California. The resort offers massage treatments as well as beautiful accommodations featuring private outdoor hot spring tubs.
Stay in a villa, get a massage, and soak in your own private hot springs. What’s not to love? The villas are gorgeous and feature a private outdoor hot springs tub, and a kitchenette or a full kitchen already stocked with coffee, tea and hot chocolate. The Deluxe Villas are larger and include a living room. Now, here’s a real treat! All of the villas offer feather beds and dreamy down pillows. I will definitely be back for another go at this. The accommodations are fantastic and rates are affordable.
THE PRICES The most expensive suite we found was only $225 on a weekend night and that was for the Metropolitan Apartment. That is a two bedroom suite with two bathrooms and in this one, there’s an indoor hot tub. The suites are the most spacious and in them you find satellite TV/Music and robes. You can actually et a pretty good look at the rooms on their website at www.svhotsprings.com.
With Villa Suites, Deluxe Villas and Standard Villas to choose from we found they had sixteen different themes in designing their uniquely decorated rooms. A sampling of some of the themes used include: the ‘English Garden’, ‘Buckaroo’, ‘Bistro’ and ‘Desert Sen’. We absolutely fell for the ‘French 1920′s’ theme. You can go ‘Greek’ or maybe ‘Out of Africa’ would suit you better. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed. If you are on a budget and can take advantage of the weekday rates, you can pick up a Standard Villa for just $115. The Deluxe Villas are $135 weekdays and $165 on weekends.
THE FOOD We traveled into Cedarville which is only about five miles away to check out the scene. We sere delighted with ‘Surprise’, the coffee shop recommended to us by locals. (See ‘Cedarville Scene article in this issue.) We were also delighted to find some really good food which was delivered to our room by a local catering company for dinner. The place is called Mazoli’s and the food is fabulous! Dinner comes delivered in a cast iron skillet with scrumptious homemade bread and butter included. From the grilled veggies on the side to the deep dish apple pie that ended it all, the meals were fantastic. We especially enjoyed the fact that we got to relax and enjoy it leisurely in our awesome villa, with a private, natural hot springs tub just steps outside the door! Again, I’m not sure how this ever got by me all these years.
ROMANTIC VIEW If you like beautiful views, you’re going to love Surprise Valley. The secluded, pristine setting seems as if it came off the pages of an old west novel. This remote high desert valley is bordered by the majestic Warner Mountains and Nevada’s Hays Range. talk about the perfect intimate getaway, this little trip offers room to roam, quiet spaces, unbelievable views and vast opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration (or just laying round your comfortable Villa).
FLY IN, STAY, AND SOAK Pilots, you’ll enjoy this. You can land at the Cedarville Airport which is about 5 miles away and enjoy a private vehicle for your exclusive use during your stay. The Fly-N-Soak Packages featured include lodging and a vehicle and start at $180 per night on weekends, based on double occupancy.
HISTORY The views of rugged terrain and majestic mountains can take ones thoughts back to a time when settlers crossed this very valley on the trail to California. This route was used more than 100 years ago, when pioneers were fulfilling their quest for free land, gold and adventure. (See “Hitting the Trail for California” article in this issue.) In Surprise Valley, I often fund myself daydreaming of what our ancestors might have been doing on such a day, in such a place. (Maybe that’s all part of the fascination with that French 1920′s theme room.) There is much history surrounding this jewel of nature which has been operated by the Rose family for four generations. They welcome you to come and enjoy a glimpse into the past with them!
SURPRISE YOURSELF! We thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful, serene views, quiet time, comfortable and beautiful accommodations, the great food and the excellent service we found at Surprise Valley Hot springs. It is located about 120 miles from Susanville, heading towards Alturas on Hwy. 395, then east on Hwy. 299 just past Cedarville. For reservations and information, you can call them locally at (530) 279-2040 or tool free at (877) 927-6426. We highly recommend that you “SURPRISE” yourself!
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By Melissa Wynn
As an in-home care provider I often find myself searching for accommodations for clients that are wheelchair friendly. On a recent trip for a client’s doctor visits, I had the pleasure of staying at the Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn at 2300 Hilltop Dr. in Redding.
Assistant Manager Cheryl Olkowski was very helpful from the very beginning when she arranged for Art and I to have adjoining rooms. His room was totally ADA approved and so easy for him to maneuver his power wheelchair around in. His room provided chair access to the shower, equipped with flip-down bench and hand-held sprayer. Getting Art to his room from our handicap parking spot was a breeze, no bumps or curbs in the way and every sidewalk had a ramp style end. What a relief! These conveniences, that may seem small, cut our evening routine time in half and we had plenty of time to curl up in deep arm chairs and relax with a complimentary DVD from the front desk along with the day’s paper.
Rooms are beautifully adorned with rustic charm and modern conveniences like the in-room iron, blow dryer and coffee… aaahh! The place is centrally located near shopping with easy freeway access to dozens of local attractions. A guest laundry seemed to prove a good choice for long distance travelers. The hotel is beautiful and the staff is excellent.
We each turned in early to our cloud soft, king size beds. I slept like a baby snuggled in amongst the five fluffy pillows. Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn and the courteous staff truly provide top-notch hospitality for the disabled. Art easily navigated the entire property in his power chair, allowing him to independently explore the immaculate grounds while I spent some time visiting with another guest in the stunning pool area. The heated outdoor pool was located with hot tub, wading pool, lovely gardens and gazebos just outside our rooms. Every inch of the Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn is spotless and fully stocked with quality amenities including an in-room mini fridge, wireless internet and complimentary toiletries if you happen to forget your what-nots. Even the alarm clock doubles as a CD and MP3 playing radio. Complimentary breakfast buffet at the on-sight restaurant was delicious and got us on our way bright and early.
Thank you to Cherly and her staff for making my job easier and my client’s stay as effortless as being right in his own home. We had a great time and next time you visit Redding, you can too. Rates and reservations are available online at thehilltopinn.com or by telephone at 530-221-6100. Tell them Mountain Valley Living sent you!
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