By Melissa Wynn

The balcony view from our room #9

After being cooped up in the house through a seven day series of Sierra snow storms, my sister and I decided to cross the mountain. We were in search of some fun and sunshine in Nevada’s famous Comstock Lode.  It is only about 15 miles from the US 395 exit 57B to Virginia City, but that short drive is like a time tunnel that carries you from the modern hustle and bustle of Reno back more than a century to the simpler times, reminiscent of the 1860′s.  In those days, gold and silver miners filled the saloons of Virginia City by day and many spent their nights a mile down the road at the Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon. We also spent the night in this nostalgic, official historic site that claims the title of Nevada’s oldest operating hotel.  Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon first welcomed boarders as the Riesen House around 1859 and remains a most warm and inviting place to hang your hat for a night or two. We arrived  excited,  chattering about our earlier visit to downtown Virginia City where we met members of The First Regimen of Fort Churchill.  Colonel Ringo, Sergeant Whiskey Rivers and his  brother Brigadier General GB Rivers were three of the characters in Civil War period clothing who relive the old west here every weekend. What fun! The feathery hats, floor length dresses, parasols and uniforms made us feel like we were really back in those days.  Hotel Manager Melody Reynolds gave a knowing smile as we oooed and ahhhed at the memorabilia on the office door from the Cartwright boys and the Ponderosa.

Left to right: Sergeant Whiskey Rivers, Colonel Ringo, Brigadier General G.B Rivers of the First Regiment Fort Churchill

Now there was a piece of Virginia City history from our own childhood.  The flowing drapes in our beautiful, antique furnished room framed an amazing view of the sun setting pink, gold and orange over the rolling, sage dotted hills. The ancient head frame of old Yellow Jacket Mine stands tall next door and I stood there wondering how many miners left this very room for a long day’s work beneath the ground.  A fire was laid in our room’s stone fireplace and the copper oil lamp on the thick wooden mantle spoke of days before the light switch was installed. My sister and I sat before the fire awhile wondering about the host of outlaws and celebrities that must have ventured here over the last 150 years.

The Saloon at The Gold Hill is still slinging drinks so we headed downstairs to check it out before dinner. Another roaring fire was burning in the Great Room when we passed through on our way to the tiny full service bar where dollar bills decorate the ceiling. Our charming host, Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon owner Bill Fain, was at his regular post in front of yet another fire, eating his lamb chop dinner and visiting with patrons as if we were all old friends at a planned get together. Everyone felt right at home. My sister ordered a cocktail and I ordered coffee, remarking that I would be driving after dinner. Mark, the bartender, changed my mind by telling me about an extraordinary local gentlemen that shuttles folks around Virginia City, working for donations with no set fee.  His name is Grant Smith and he is a great big beautiful doll.  Every business in town knows who he is and how to contact him–the friendly neighborhood designated driver. This town rocks! “A little Irish cream in my coffee please.”

Keith James and Danielle DuBois of Reno, NV enjoy a meal at the hotel.

A stroll back through the Great Room and down the hall brought us to Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon’s own Crown Point Restaurant that specializes in gourmet dinners. We were greeted by Executive Chef Randy Bryant. Not only is Randy an excellent chef, he is a delightful barrel of laughs.  We asked about the menu and learned that if the ingredients are in the kitchen, Randy will prepare any meal you choose and with a weeks notice he will make sure that the ingredients for your chosen dishes are in the kitchen. Now that is down home service. My sister and I both love sushi so when we saw the Homemade Sushi Rolls Combo ($15), we ordered up.  This appetizer included my favorite California Roll with crab and avocado, a Majuro Roll with spicy Ahi Tuna and Ami bi Sweet Shrimp all served with Soy sauce and a wonderful cucumber wasabi sauce that was both cool on the tongue and hot up the nose, a delightful way to start our meal. Next came two fresh green salads topped with a very creamy homemade blue cheese dressing that I would love the recipe for and a warm basket of fresh baked bread. MMMMMM. Our empty salad plates were replaced by a scoop of  raspberry sorbet to ready the palette for entree treasures yet to come. My sister had the thick and juicy 10 oz ribeye cut right off the prime ($18) served with sauteed fresh spinach, grilled spaghetti squash and a huge baked potato fully loaded with scallions, butter, sour cream, grated cheese and bacon bits. She took over half of it back to the room in a box. I let Chef Randy choose for me and was delighted when our lovely server brought me a thick Halibut fillet ($22) topped with diced tomatoes, calamara olives and a tangy, buttery sauce, Randy’s own secret creation. He finished my amazing meal with cheesy au gratin potatoes and the same spinach and squash of the evening. As light and flaky and delicious as that halibut was, I still couldn’t finish it all but I gave it noble effort…one more bite. Oh goodness, very stuffed.

Danielle Dubois and Kieth James  made the short drive from their Reno home to dine at Crown Point  as well and we so enjoyed their company. Chef Randy made Danielle a custom Alfredo dish filled with fresh veggies ($15) and topped it with chips of aged parmesan cheese. Kieth savored The Buffalo Filet Mignon($38), just one of the specialty game dishes served at Crown Point Restaurant. It is wrapped in apple-wood bacon and topped with Chef’s Jack Daniels Red Bell Pepper Sauce. Did I say oooo yummy? Excellent food, service and company, what more can you ask for?

With our tummies full we ventured back to the Saloon and made that call to Grant for our ride to town. We made our $10 donation and decided since we were staying at Nevada’s oldest hotel that we might well get dropped off at The Old Washoe Club,Virginia City’s oldest Saloon. We danced the night away with the locals and a few other visitors to the rockin’ tunes of Road Dawgs, an excellent band that played all our favorite classic rock and kept the crowd lively to the very last song. When the music was finished and the lights came up we saw Grant sitting at a corner table sipping a 7Up, waiting patiently to safely deliver us back to Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon. What a guy!

We drifted off in our soft and comfy bed, dreaming of Comstock adventures. This was a great getaway and rates are  very reasonable beginning at just $55 a night for the double bed rooms on a weeknight and topping out a $225 for a weekend night in the Brewery Lodge, a private 3 bedroom residence across the way. Virginia City always has some thing going on. If you would like to visit, you can learn more about Gold Hill Hotel & Saloon and Crown Point Restaurant by visiting goldhillhotel.net or just give owners Bill and Carol Fain a call at 775-847-0111. Tell them Mountain Valley Living sent you and have ball…we did.

photo courtesy of: The Road Dawgs from Reno, NV

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If cabin fever is setting in, a trip to Bucks Lake Lodge may be just the answer. This quaint resort sits on the edge of picturesque Bucks Lake which boasts 17 miles of shoreline. Situated at one mile high, Bucks Lake Lodge is in the Northern Sierra Nevada, just a couple of hours from Reno, and only about an hour’s drive from Oroville and 17 miles southwest of Quincy on Bucks Lake Road (Quincy-Oroville Road).

The lodge is informal and uncomplicated. Tall pines, a crystal clear lake and clean mountain air come with the stay and modest rates go along with their rustic simplicity. Warm and cozy cabins are plenty comfortable and the wondrous scenes of winter are well worth any sacrifice of giving up the 5-star with room service.

The lodge has a great restaurant and a friendly bar too. I have heard that the food is excellent. Cabins with kitchens have the basics including a real stove top percolator; now that is good coffee! Accommodations range from one to three bedrooms and each hold from two to eight persons. An on site store carries most groceries except fresh meat.

It is not an uncommon sight to see a long line up of snowmobiles in front of the Bucks Lake Lodge. Snowmobilers and cross-country skiers visit the Bucks Lake area during winter for its staging facilities and 100 miles of groomed trails. Bucks Lake has long been considered one of the finest snowmobile destinations in the west. In addition to groomed trails, there are hundreds of ungroomed, but marked routes.

Three staging areas are in the vicinity – Four Trees, Bucks Summit, and Big Creek – along with a number of year-round resorts offering lodging and dining. Bucks Lake Road is not plowed beyond Bucks Summit; travel into the resorts must be done via snowmobile, snow cat or cross-country skiing. The turnoff to Bucks Lake Road, just north of Quincy, is on Highway 70 and is well marked. In the winter, expect a 4.5 mile ski or snowmobile ride on a groomed road.

Driving a car or truck on groomed surfaces is prohibited as doing so ruins the road for permitted snowmobile and ski travel. For information on possible snow cat shuttle service, contact the resort.

Visit buckslakelodge.com and click on ‘Winter Fun’ to download a PDF of the Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Trails

Bucks Lake Lodge
& Timberline Inn
P.O. Box 236 Quincy, CA 95971

530-283-2262 • www.buckslakelodge.org

OPEN YEAR ROUND

US Forest Service – Plumas National Forest snow conditions, maps and other useful information: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/plumas/conditions/snow/

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By Jan Cox

The day dawned clear with a promise of warming as we headed out for an overnight stay at Sierra Sky Lodge in Cromberg, CA. After a leisurely drive through the canyons we pulled into the driveway of the lodge, just 12 miles south of Quincy. There we were greeted by owner, Wendy Yates, her four beautiful daughters, Gracie, Ruby, Ella and Molly, their friend Lauren and dog, Spartacus.

At this child and pet friendly place, we were shown to our room in one of the two rustic, single story stacked cedar buildings. This cozy room, with its new king sized bed, coffee nook with two chairs and small table, refrigerator and large picture windows, was comfortably cool and welcoming. We were also welcomed by a personalized note letting us know what to expect along with times for breakfast. And on the bed was a surprise package of delicious chocolate bark made by Carey Candy Co. in Quincy.

In front of the buildings, each room has its individual parking space in the shade of beautiful tall pines. All rooms are non-smoking but just outside the door are two garden chairs and a stump table with candle and ashtray for smokers—a perfect place to relax and read our latest novels. As we toured the property, we noticed a nice play area for young children, volleyball net, a patio with chairs and tables and an outside bar-b-q. Finally, near the office, we were delighted to discover their beautiful Tiki themed swimming pool with patio chairs and tables for relaxing.

In the room was a folder with clear directions for our stay and also the story of how this family came here. It seems that in September of 2003, Wendy and Wayne Yates had come to stay with his parents who were vacationing in nearby Graeagle. They immediately fell in love with this beautiful area where Wayne could grab an early breakfast from the Village Bakery and head off to fly fish on the Feather River. They both loved the area and hated to leave. Just as it was time to go, his mother handed them a flier and told them she had found their new business! Sierra Sky Lodge was for sale and so they went to look at it before heading back to Orange County. The rest is history. They have now owned and operated the Lodge for over 5 years and have never regretted the decision to move to the Sierra.

At 4400 feet, it cooled down beautifully that night. Being right on highway 70/89, there was easy access to the lodge and also day time traffic but the night quieted right down and we slept well. When making our reservation, we were directed to a special Italian restaurant just down the road called Trattoria Rosa. Patrick and Lavelle cook and hostess for the many guests in the area six days a week for dinner from 4-9 o’clock. It is closed on Tuesdays. Trattoria Rosa serves a variety of Italian dinners with soup or salad and homemade bread. The menu also offers appetizers and homemade desserts, beer and wine. Our meal there was delicious and we plan to go back to try their gourmet pizzas.

Wendy and Wayne have dreams for their Sierra Sky Lodge. This year it became a bed and breakfast for the first time. We were served a delicious home-made quiche, melon, cinnamon bread and our choice of hot or cold cereals, hot coffee, tea, or chocolate. I was impressed that Wendy also made pancakes for a young boy who was part of a wedding party staying at the lodge. In talking to her, she told us that many fishermen stay at the lodge along with groups of golfers, wedding parties, and vacationers who want their children to have a friendly experience. The lodge is perfect for those traveling with pets. In the future, Wendy and Wayne would like to begin offering special groups, such as scrap booking or quilting groups, a place to stay and to meet together in a local community hall for workshops.

This lodge is located 8 miles West of Graeagle, between Quincy and Portola, and has 6 golf courses within 10 minutes, plus three horseback riding stables, gold panning, antique and craft shopping, lots of hiking trails, fishing in over 100 lakes and miles of rivers and streams, all close by.

Prices vary for the rooms starting at $85 for a standard room with king size bed. They also feature a fireplace room for those who come to play winter sports or just want a little more cozy warmth on cold nights. Room prices (including a house rental nearby), lots of photos, maps and other important information can be found at their easy to use website: www.sierraskylodge.com. Reservations can be made at (530) 836-2344.

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ROMANCE PACKAGE WITH HOT SPRINGS POOL

The soft evening breezes blow cool on a porch swing in the Sierras while the midday sun delivers the warmth of a true summer. Ahh summer, what better time to send the kids off to Grandma’s for a week so the hubby and I can find some one on one time…and a porch swing. As it turns out, Drakesbad Guest Ranch has several porch swings and we were even able to take advantage of their all new Romance Package. Bonus! We threw some jeans and swimsuits in an overnight bag as Grandma drove away with the kids. We had our own car in gear before they even got out of our little town.

Drakesbad Guest Ranch lies within the Lassen Volcanic National Park and the drive is spectacular. As we left the pavement for the last few miles by gravel road, it seemed as if the real world just melted away. The main lodge and 20 small cabins tucked in against the mountain were the only signs of humanity. The sprawling meadow that meanders up the valley was home to a handsome buck with antlers still in the velvet and several of his doe friends. Through the meadow a gravel path led the way to a standard size pool surrounded by lounge chairs and a lush lawn. Courtesy of our friendly neighborhood volcano, the pool is constantly fed fresh, natural, hot springs water. The Romance Package includes Champagne served pool side at whatever time you choose. Unlike your typical resort the pool doesn’t close at 10:00 and we were soaking under the stars long after the other guests had drifted off to dreamland. We walked back to our cabin hand in hand guided by the glow of the oil lamp we left burning to light the window of our cabin and a flashlight that managers Ed and Billie Fiebiger were kind enough to loan us. We felt like the only two people in the world. The silence in the woods in the wee hours of morning is like dark silky fur, deep and soft.

A sunset dinner served outdoors at a private table was also part of our special package but evening sprinkles helped us decide to dine with the other guests amid the rustic cabin decor of the dining hall. Three full meals are included with all stays at Drakesbad. The dining hall also serves the general public lunch for $13.50 and dinner for $21.95. Not bad considering that a meal purchase also allows a soak in that wonderful, soothing hot springs pool or the chance to take a horseback ride (subject to availability and fees apply). You really need to make reservations for rooms and meals as much of the season gets booked early.

Dinner inside turned out to be a good time. Ed Fiebiger wore a funny sun visor that had a cap of fuzzy hair and we had a good laugh knowing that a few of the younger guests thought he just had very strange hair. Too funny. Damien Stoy and Marisa Rodera were celebrating their third anniversary. Billie served them cake herself, announced the anniversary and the entire room clapped and joined in their toast. Very romantic. We all shared in cool Caesar salad with anchovies and half loaves of fresh baked garlic bread and real butter just to get us started. Prime Rib medium rare and dripping with juice was our main course served with garlic mashed red potatoes and fresh steamed asparagus. Mercy, mercy what a meal, but who can say no to creme brulle.

Tummys full,

we wandered down to the meadow’s edge and finally spent some time in that porch swing. It wasn’t on the porch but settled between two trees near the main lodge where a family of fat waddling marmots were playing like puppies in the grass. The sky and distant mountains changed color minute by minute and we were content to snuggle and watch mother nature paint by magic. These moments are rare and it was nice to linger.

Breakfast alone at the outdoor table is also included in the Drakesbad Romance Package but we so enjoyed the company of Billie and Ed that we again opted to join them for light and fluffy flapjacks, sausages and good hot coffee. It must have been my lucky day, this is my favorite breakfast. I love to dip my sausage in the warm maple syrup. Sweet, salty, yummo!

After breakfast we took a short, effortless walk to Dream Lake. This tiny lake is so clear and smooth it looks like someone laid a mirror in the middle of a quiet grassy clearing. Dream Lake is also home to a family of beavers who maintain the dam that keeps it full. Drakesbad Guest Ranch keeps a canoe there and guests are welcome to paddle around. We sat on the bench overlooking the water and debated whether to get a sack lunch from the kitchen and go for a picnic or take the three hour horseback ride to Boiling Lake and Terminal Geyser.

The steaming, mysterious, volcanic wonders won in the end. By hike or horseback this part of Lassen Volcanic National Park is a must see for all visitors. Both are truly amazing and talk about a hot date, the Boiling Lake really boils and Terminal Geyser is actually a steam vent that spews like a giant tea kettle around the clock. It doesn’t get much hotter than that.

After our amazing ride was the perfect time for our final special Romance package treat, the one hour massage by Pavel Stafa, the man with the magic hands. Melting. I’m sure we were melting. We couldn’t have dreamed up a better ending to our lovely weekend. I felt like a noodle all the way home.

I highly recommend that those of you who could use a bit of spark back in your relationship to give this Romance Package a whirl. It is only $90 per person extra with a regular stay. It would also be an excellent honeymoon destination. Rates at Drakesbad Guest Ranch start at $155 per person for the lodge rooms and small cabins and top out at $201 for the bungalows and annex. Children stay at a discounted rated. Upcoming specials include shoulder season rates beginning August 24th and Sept. 2nd – Oct 12th if you stay 4 nights your 5th night is free. Parents need a break too so while the kids are at camp or away with friends sweep your sweetie away. Make your lodging or dining reservations early at drakesbad.com or call 1-866-999-0914 and go feel the fire at Drakesbad Guest Ranch.

By Melissa Wynn

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By Jan Cox

If you are interested in getting away from life’s hectic pace, finding a place where you can enjoy tranquility, good food, exercise and spa treatments, Chalet View Lodge is just the ticket.

We arrived for our overnight on a warm afternoon in late May and were excited to find this resort experience an “all service venue.” The owners, Carrie and Bob Hickman took turns showing us around the area. There are resort rooms, suites, rustic cabins and the Villa to choose from. We were delighted to have a two story room with a two plush, inviting beds–king downstairs and a double bed in the loft above.

Just beyond our room was an outdoor patio for eating, a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, and a 6 hole golf course. We took a walk to a trout pond where we could relax in a wooden rocker or throw in a hook to catch the trout that were hitting the surface. We also noticed horseshoe pits and a bocce ball court. Just beyond the golf course, Carrie told us, we would find trails for hours of hiking.

The Grille is open for indoor/outdoor dining with meals cooked by their full time Chef so no one will have to leave the premises to have a full and complete day. For coffee lovers, there is a Starbucks in the lobby. And for wine lovers, a wine and beer bar.

Bob also took us to the Spa and Fitness Center. Three masseuses work here; there is a steam room and a sauna, and one can get salon treatments or exercise in the fitness center. A large banquet/meeting room and a smaller breakout room are available. These rooms look perfect for group get-togethers, dancing and parties. Both a ramp and stairs lead to the upper floor where they are located.

Bob and Carrie are in their 6^th season of ownership and continue to upgrade various parts of the resort to make it that special place that appeals to everyone. You will find this lodge at 72056 Highway 70, just a few miles past the Hwy 89 turn-off to Graeagle, heading toward Portola. Chateau View Lodge is also one of the places to stay in the Plumas Pines, Stay, Play and Dine packages. Prices vary by rooms from $99 to $315 and are less in the low season. For more information go to www.chaletviewlodge.com or call 1-800-510-VIEW, or 530-832-5528.

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We arrived late in the afternoon to find the Trading Post Store portion of the business closed for the day but a welcoming sign invited us to check in on the 2nd floor. Old rough cut barn wood graces the walls of the entry hall and several hand painted murals and history tidbits line the path to the main stair case. Several character cutouts painted by artist Stephanie Stemcha occupy Sierra Lodge and Trading Post and I have to say my favorite is the spry old miner and his faithful dog at the bottom of the stairs. He reminded me of my own gold mining Daddy and our old mutt Digger Dog, which made me giggle. A soft love seat and dimly burning lamp, along with a lightly stocked bookshelf, make up one of several quaint sitting areas throughout the 2nd and third floors. Each room on both lodging floors has a hand drawn mining scene above the door, just another touch of detail added to this gold nugget of a lodge. We rang the bell outside the adorable little check in window that brought to mind the telegraph office from an old western movie. Warm and friendly manager Carol was on her way out but still took the time to walk us to our lovely room and invite us to check out the store between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., their regular year round business hours. After peeking at the elaborate window displays on our way in, I was curious to see all the treasures of the 3 room store.

Our comfortable king sized bed was built from logs and I had a great view of downtown from my pillow. A mountain mural on the walls of our room was another piece of hand painted eye candy that make Sierra Lodge and Trading Post such a treat. The microwave and mini fridge were just we needed for our popcorn and chick flick plans. Plenty of thick soft towels and a good deep bathtub invited a long hot bath, a must on a girls night out. Main Street Dinner House (also featured this month) offers on site fine dining just downstairs so dinner was no fuss and delicious. Afterwards, we enjoyed a quiet night in, curled up under the crocheted afgan we found draped over our corner arm chair. It was good to get away with an old friend. Nightly rates at this golden find are very reasonable at $55.00 per night for the smallest rooms, $65.00 for medium and $75.00 for the largest king rooms like ours. The third floor houses cute little apartments that rent long term for $550.00-$750.00 per month with all utilities as well as cable t.v. included. A great find for the single guy or young couple moving to Greenville.

Our morning visit to the Trading Post proved to be a shoppers joy. This unique shop has a bit of everything from second hand furniture to fine jewelry. Of course it wouldn’t be a genuine miners place without some real raw gold nuggets and there were plenty of those. Oriental and African art pieces, big game head mounts, stained glass and musical instraments are just a few more of the countless treasures to be found at Sierra Lodge and Trading Post. Owner Ivan Coffman has a great eye for the eccentric and unusual. We bought a delicate silver and tourquoise ring as a momento of our relaxing visit. There are several small antique shops in Greenville and a brochure at each, to help you find them all. We had a great time. So whether you go for the night, the shopping, or just happen to pass through Greenville, drop in on Carol and her fuzzy little pooch Chuck. They’ll be happy to show you around.

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Do you ever feel the need to just wander off into the quiet of the woods? Maybe sit on a fallen log next to the bubbling brook and listen to the birds sing or take a dip in a cool mountain lake that seems to have been forgotten? I visited a place recently in the Lakes Basin that offers all that and more, Gold Lake Lodge near Graeagle, Ca. This peaceful hideaway is adjacent to several hiking trails that lead to 16 sparkling high mountain lakes. The closest of these lakes being a short 20 minute hike from the lodge. You could hike all day and never visit the same lake twice. All of the lakes have fish in them except for the smallest one. Gold Lake Lodge is above 6000 feet in elevation and many of the views along the trails are from the top of the world. There are also 2 old mine sites and 2 waterfalls to see as you meander along these enchanting forested paths. Eventually, if you wander in the right direction, you will run into the Pacific Crest Trial. A map of hiking trails is offered upon check-in at Gold Lake Lodge. Check-in is in the main lodge as is the dining room and a cozy gathering area. Wagon wheel light fixtures add to the old west feel of the bunk house style building. The cabins continue rustic and primitive surroundings with all the luxuries. I was so glad to find that, along with thick and soft towels and a super comfy bed, our cabin had a dispenser in the shower for shampoo, bodywash and conditioner. I have long hair….how many little bottles? What a treat. After a brief chat with friendly and laid back manager John Barker we were off to Gold Lake Stables. We made reservations for our ride, which is recommended, but drop-ins are also welcome. There are many trail ride and pack trip options .We chose to take the 1 ½ hour trail ride, very reasonable at $44.00. The 1 hour ride is $34.00. Longer trail rides, pack trips and a youth program are also available through Reid Horse and Cattle Company who also own and operate Graeagle Stables. A full list of services, rate and contact information can be found online at www.reidhorse.com or by calling one of the stables or the home office in Quincy, Ca. Gold Lake Lodge also has brochures and will be glad to help you arrange you riding adventure. I love to ride but rarely get the chance so our ride was a special treat for me. Our guide was young and cheerful Jennifer Russon. She gave us a brief lesson in horseback riding that was full of valuable information and overflowing with humor and we were off. The trail we followed was barely detectable giving the relaxing feel of just strolling over the creek and through woods; although I’m sure Jennifer and the horses all knew the way. The ride began right on the banks of Gold Lake and the vistas throughout were remarkable. For the second time on this trip I was swept away to the old west. The slower pace of life in general and the closeness to the land are easily forgotten in busy city lives. At the end of our ride we tipped Rory and E-Z, our rides on the tour, with a green juicy apple and Jennifer, our guide, with cash and headed back to Gold Lake Lodge. We lounged in the padded lawn furniture under the moss covered pines and traded stories with the other guests of the days excursions before we all went in for dinner. Breakfast, a lunch for the trail, and dinner are all included in the price of your stay. The kitchen is open to the public but reservations are recommended as the dining room has limited seating. Dinner entrees change daily and a hearty breakfast menu, including homemade muffins, is available. Our dinner was delectable. Our first course was a tangy cilantro lime soup, followed by spinach salad with peaches, pine nuts and poppy seed dressing. I chose the turkey scaloppini and Ben had top sirloin steak with sautéed mushrooms, both cooked to perfection. Sides for the evening were scalloped potatoes, grilled summer vegetables and homemade bread…excellent meal. As if that didn’t have us waddling full dessert choices were every fruit in the kitchen crisp, peanut butter pie and vanilla ice cream. My compliments to the chef Richard Cramer. An after dinner walk was definitely in order. As we walked along the nearest path to our cabin I noticed several snow plants growing just off the trail. This plant is unique to shady conifer forest floors, has no chlorophyll and has a partner type relationship with a certain underground fungi. A very interesting read on this beautiful red flowering unusual plant can be found at www.calflora.net. After our walk we sat on the porch of our little cabin and watched the neighbors play a game of ping pong over by the recreation hall. The next morning we slept in, breakfast is served until 9:30 so we were in no rush. We were greeted for breakfast in the lodge by bright-eyed and busy-tailed James Hainsworth , the same chipper gentleman who checked us in. After breakfast I had an opportunity to chat with chef, Richard Cramer, who had an interesting story to tell. He had read about the wolverine sighting in our June edition and it turns out that Mr. Cramer has also seen a wolverine. He saw it near Elwell Lodge which is also in the Lakes Basin and not far from Gold Lake Lodge. He reported the sighting to Mt. Hough ranger district but the biologist was unable to locate the animal. Elwell Lodge is near the Tahoe National Forest border but is in Plumas National Forest, so maybe those wolverines are still around here. Please tell us about your sightings by visiting our website at www.mountainvalleylivingmagazine.com.

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DRAKESBAD GUEST RANCH

By Eileen Majors

THE ESCAPE

Long lists of things to pick up at the store, dust on the furniture and a pile of laundry is beckoning me to stay home this weekend. Work has been stacking up for weeks but with wisdom being doled out for free and given without reproach to all who ask, I decided to go ahead and asked for a little enlightenment. I walked past the library table where one grandchild had proudly written their name in the dust and made my way to the quiet of the garden to ponder how to handle the masses of responsibility this week. Isn’t it refreshing how a quiet moment (a moment spent away from all the ‘stuff’) can bring you wise perspective? In no time at all, it was clear that relaxing, quiet moments needed to continue for me, at least for a few days.

There was only one place on earth that came to mind and lucky for me, I had been invited to experience Drakesbad Guest Ranch with a friend. We turned at the fire hall in Chester and soon landed on the dirt road leading to Drakesbad, which is inside Lassen National Park. Leave your blow dryer and your electric razor behind. You won’t be needing them. Twenty charming, rustic cabins with windows lit by gas lanterns, are laid out aside a beautiful meadow in the middle of nowhere.

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 the difference between the pool there 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. ‘Noodles’ are also available to use for floating in the warm pool. In the daylight hours, the pool is kept a little cooler but still offers warm, relaxing waters which flow through the pool constantly. Families enjoy swimming throughout the day. 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 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 which the staff will be happy to point out. There are many 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.” Drakesbad welcomes 200 to 300 passers-by from the trail each season, with double portions and special rates.

After a meal, several ventured down trails with fly fishing rods in hand looking for the many opportunities to snag a native brown or rainbow trout. Anglers we spoke with said the fishing was hot. I, with just a hat and water bottle, ventured off as well. A seven minute hike brought us to picturesque Dream Lake where a canoe sits awaiting hikers from the trail. Somewhat further up the road, we ventured up towards Boiling Springs Lake.

After about 10 minutes of hiking uphill, I opted to relax on a rock while Kim in advertising chose to hike on up to take the photos. After all, I believe it was the quiet, relaxing moments that had been prescribed for me. On this very warm June day, I found a seat, cool to touch, on a giant, round boulder in the shade. Finally. it was the moment I’d waited for, a time to ponder the faded sound of gentle waterfalls, the scent of pine and absorb the stillness of the earth. Like an emptying vessel. I let go of the ‘stuff’. With a heart full of thankfulness to the Maker of it all, I sat and listened.

HORSING AROUND

After a little tranquility, we headed back towards our cabin to look at a beautiful draft horse. There we met ranch wrangler Rebecca who was busy brushing another magnificent horse. I understood what the basket of carrots in the dining hall was for, as two children approached with one each for the horses.

Horseback trail rides range from 45 minutes in length to eight hours. Prices range from $24 to $185. 30 minute pony rides are $16. Several rides are available for beginners and children including those to Devils Kitchen, Boiling Spring Lake and Terminal Geyser. Other rides are recommended for experienced riders with some for intermediate or experienced riders only.

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.

Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style at Drakesbad. Our breakfast offered both an assorted melon and a berry blend of fresh fruits. Hot and cold cereal and a variety of breakfast items were available at the buffet. Our server also came by with the entree of the morning, blueberry whipped cream crepes. Yum!

There was plenty to eat, and those who had signed up the night before were picking up sack lunches on their way out for the days adventure. We opted for lunch in the dining hall. Fresh fruit, homemade cookies and the taste of fresh squeezed lemonade took me back in time. An assortment of breads including freshly baked sliced herb bread was offered with cold cuts and vegetables for sandwiches. We enjoyed several tasty homemade salads and checked out the ingredients in their book of recipes. They gave us printed recipes for all their salad dressings. We had Apple Maple Vinaigrette which was absolutely different and delicious. All the food was tasty and nutritiously prepared.

For dinner we had Pork Marsala over wild rice with zucchini on the side. We started with a spinach salad, a light and tasty blend with kiwi and pineapple. It was served with a sweet, warm, soft, homemade bread. Dessert was a brownie topped with vanilla bean or chocolate ice cream. It was served with sliced bananas and fresh rasberries. Hats off to our chef, Lea Young who has been at the ranch for four years.

With a few days notice, I was able to also come back for their Wednesday night barbecue. A break from the usual dining tradition at the ranch, this has become tradition itself. Our host Ed barbecued rib eye steaks, fresh Portabella mushrooms, burgers and dogs out on the lawn, near the lodge. All the fixings’ were delicious, right down to the homemade brownies and cookies for dessert. Nearby, kids enjoyed volleyball, ping pong and swinging on a horse swing made from a tire. Soon a campfire was going and the s’mores were on for the kids! The quiet of the evening was enjoyed by others back at the hot springs pool, just down the path.

PRICES & DETAILS

Drakesbad Guest Ranch sits inside Lassen National Park and park fees are collected on the way in or for guests, can be paid at Drakesbad. Reservations for lodging should be made far in advance, especially during peak season. As far as meals go, Drakesbad welcomes diners by reservation and with dining comes use of the pool and trail access. The hiking trails are also accessible from a trailhead just before the ranch entrance.

Ed and Billie Fiebiger, who have been the resort’s hosts for 18 years, said they can usually seat a few extras at each meal and so they do serve diners who are not staying there but it is by reservation only. Dinner is $21.95. Lunch is $13.50 and breakfast is $9.95 with kids eating at around half price.

Lodging prices start at $155 per person and $132 for additional persons. That is for a lodge or cabin bedroom. Drakesbad also offer bungalows and duplex accommodations. Many options have joining room access. Three meals per day are included in lodging prices. Horseback riding and massage services are also available. Reservations can be make 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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Hey guys, wouldn’t it be cool to take a vacation where the fishing is listed in the 50 best fly fishing destinations to try before you die, and still pamper your wife with elegant accomidations? There is just the place between Burney and Fall River Mills, Ca just a mile or so off Hwy 299. Clearwater Lodge on the Pit River is the picture of tranquility from the moment you pull into the circular drive lined with huge old sycamore trees. This nostalgic building was completed in 1921 by master craftsman who used local lava rock and clear fir to create an ambiance of elegance to rival the finest.

General Manager Tom Peppas boasts the clear fir panaling throughout the lodge is without a single knot. Fine quality pillowtopped matresses draped with old fashioned quilts along with the cozy fireplace in the great room add a warmth and homey quality that make it so easy to relax. The lodge was originally built as a place to entertain PG&E executives and employees and offers a variety of accomadations and package activities to suit different preferences and group sizes. A list of the various fishing instuction and guide packages along with rafting packages and horseback riding along with rates are available on their website at www.clearwaterlodge.com. We checked in around 3 o’clock and one one the 3 different types of fishing classes that were scheduled during our visit was in progress. I soon realized that Cleaerwater Lodge is a place where you bring yourself and everything else is provided, custom fit to your preferences, from the minute you check in to the end of your stay. Meals are included in the price of your stay , are chef prepared and served family style at designated times. On the night of our stay we enjoyed a scrumptious meal of chicken cordon bleu, fire roasted summer vegetables and a wonderfully spiced pallenta. Our appetizer was fresh herbed tomatoes and fresh mozzerella. Dessert was divine, a blached pear, chocalate dipped and served on a bed of caramel sauce. We chose to spend the afternoon strolling the grounds and enjoying the natural beauty of the river and forested area. Many of the sugar pine trees we saw during our walk had rows of holes about the size of a large mans thumb from near the ground to high into the branches. These numerous cubbyholes were drilled by the resident woodpeckers searching for grubs and other insects. Many of them are filled with a single acorn, stashed there by the many gray squirrels that scampered about everywhere throughout our stay. We sat on the bank listening to rushing river and watching three magnificent golden eagles surf the wind, almost never flapping a wing. When the last rays of sun were disapeaaring behind the mountain we went back to the lodge for a cool beverage and fresh baked cookie, always available in the beautiful great room with the original copper and stained glass chandeliers. We had a great nights sleep without interuption of tv or phone which are not in any of the rooms or cabins of Clearwater Lodge. After a delicious breakfast served buffet style of scrambled eggs and sausage, hot or cold cereal, fresh fruit, yogurt and fresh squeezed orange and grapefruit juices, we were off to see the two waterfalls that are within 15 miles of the lodge.

We first went to see Pit River Falls which is just a mile or so outside Fall River Mills on Hwy 299. There is a clearly marked “Vista Point” that offers a great view of the falls from above. It is quite a hike to see these falls up close and personal but if you enjoy a good hike it is well worth the walk to check it out. My personal favorite is Burney Falls at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park just 6 miles north of the intersection of Hwy 299 and Hwy 89. Burney Creek is spring fed so the water is crisp and clear and the fresh rain smell of the falls is strong in the air even in the parking lot. There is a spectacular view of the falls just 75 feet from the parking lot and a ramped concrete walk to this point offers easy access for the hanicapped or otherwise physically challenged. The full loop around the falls is 1.3 miles and dotted with informative signs about the volanic landscape as well as plant and animal species along the trail. Fishing is allowed with a barbless hook restrction and limited catch of 2 per day on rainbow, brown and brook trout, which are this areas true claim to fame. I can sit near the falls and watch the rainbows dance in the mist at the bottom for hours and the white noise of falls thundering of over cliffs could easily lull me to sleep in no time at all on a warm summer day. We walked the full loop then grabbed a snack and some gifts for the grandkids from the general store. I will return to Burney Falls in July when my family comes for vacation. This is an awesome work of nature anyone visiting this area should take the time to behold. What a peaceful journey! Treat yourselves to paradise , premier fishing and waterfalls in the Burney/Fall River Mills area. We had an amazing time and I’m sure you will too. Where should we go next? Where is your favorite northeastern California getaway?

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