Chester Travel Guide

Plan your ultimate trip to Chester, California with this comprehensive guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, hikes, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Chester

Chester is a charming town in Plumas County, nestled in the heart of the Shasta Cascades region of Northern California. Surrounded by picturesque forests, lakes, and mountains, this quaint town offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, learn about local history and culture, or simply relax and unwind, Chester has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Chester

Here are some of the top attractions and destinations to add to your Chester itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chester-Lake Almanor Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the history of the area, including exhibits on the Maidu people, logging industry, and local wildlife.
  • Collins Pine Museum: Learn about the timber industry that has been vital to the local economy for over a century.
  • Juniper Lake: A serene alpine lake located in the Lassen National Forest, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking.
  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: Explore the park’s fumaroles, mud pots, and other geothermal features, along with hiking trails and stunning views of the volcanic landscape.

Natural Attractions of Chester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail: This 25-mile trail follows the route of an old railroad bed, offering an easy and scenic hike or bike ride.
  • Lake Almanor: A stunningly beautiful lake surrounded by towering trees and offering a host of water activities, from boating and fishing to swimming and sunbathing.
  • Mill Creek Falls: A 75-foot waterfall located in Lassen National Forest, accessible via a short hike.
  • Mount Lassen: The southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range, Mount Lassen offers hiking trails, snowshoeing, and skiing in the winter months.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chester

Chester is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample hiking and biking routes catering to all skill levels. Some of the best trails to explore include:

  • Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail: This 25-mile trail offers stunning views of the Susan River Canyon and the historic Westwood Lumber Railroad.
  • Pacific Crest Trail: This legendary trail spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, with a 500-mile stretch passing through California, including the vicinity of Chester.
  • Butt Lake Trail: A moderate hike that leads to the peaceful Butt Lake and the surrounding forests.
  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: The park offers over 150 miles of hiking trails, including accessible boardwalks around hydrothermal areas.

Best Things to Do in Chester: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other fun and exciting activities to enjoy in Chester, such as:

  • Fishing: Lake Almanor and surrounding streams offer prime fishing opportunities for trout, salmon, and bass.
  • Boating: Rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake’s many coves and inlets.
  • Golfing: Lake Almanor Country Club offers a challenging 9-hole course surrounded by stunning views of the lake and mountains.
  • Horseback riding: Take a scenic ride through the forests and meadows surrounding Chester.
  • Stargazing: The clear skies around Chester offer a stunning view of the stars, especially on moonless nights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chester

If you have a week to spare in Chester, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Hike the Bizz Johnson Trail, explore the town of Westwood
2 Visit the Lassen Volcanic National Park, explore hydrothermal areas
3 Segway tour of the Collins Pine Museum, visit Chester-Lake Almanor Museum
4 Water activities on Lake Almanor (boat rental, swimming, fishing)
5 Horseback riding in the nearby forests, visit Mill Creek Falls
6 Scenic drive to Mount Lassen, snowshoeing/skiing (in season)
7 Relax and unwind in Chester, indulge in local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Chester

Chester boasts a variety of dining options that won’t disappoint your taste buds. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sourdough bread: A staple of California cuisine, try the locally made sourdough bread, best when served with butter.
  • Bison burger: Enjoy the juicy and flavorful bison, found in many local restaurants.
  • Fish and chips: A classic dish made with Almanor trout, locally caught and fresh served with house-made fries.

Local Beverages

  • Lake Almanor Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers to try, including IPA, amber ale, and porter.
  • Plumas County wines: Local wine from Plumas County is a must-try, which has been gaining popularity in the area.

Where to Stay in Chester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chester has a variety of accommodation options catering to all budgets and tastes, including:

  • Bidwell House Bed & Breakfast: This historic bed and breakfast feature cozy rooms and serves a hearty breakfast.
  • The Chalet at Mount Lassen: This rustic cabin-style hotel offers stunning views of Mount Lassen and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Cottage at Lake Almanor: This charming vacation rental cottage offers a peaceful retreat and is just minutes from the lake.

What to Buy in Chester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Chester, consider bringing home some of these local souvenirs and products:

  • Handcrafted pottery: Discover the work of local artists and bring home a unique piece of handcrafted pottery.
  • Red Bluff Angus beef: Bring back the locally raised beef from Red Bluff and get the taste of Chester at home.
  • Chester T-shirt: A souvenir T-shirt is the perfect way to remember your trip to Chester.

Local Culture and Customs of Chester

Chester is a tight-knit community that values its history and natural environment. As a visitor, it’s important to show respect for the local culture and customs, such as:

  • Leave No Trace: When hiking or exploring the outdoors, follow the Leave No Trace principles and leave the environment as you found it.
  • Support Local Businesses: Patronize the local shops and restaurants to get the taste of local and contribute to the local economy.

Best Time to Visit Chester

Chester is a year-round destination with four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. The best time to visit depends on your interests:

  • Spring: This is a great time to visit Chester to experience the wildflowers and greenery, optimize water sports activities, enjoy road biking and hiking.
  • Summer: Summer is a popular time to visit the area, when the weather is warm and the lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Fall: In autumn, the treetops turn to brilliant fall colors, making it a perfect time for hiking and mountain bike riding.
  • Winter: Winter season in Chester opens up the opportunity for skiing and snowshoeing in the surrounding mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chester

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Chester:

Do:

  • Take in nature’s beauty: Chester is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, take time to experience the beauty and fresh air.
  • Plan ahead: Especially during peak season, make reservations and plan, so that you don’t miss anything.
  • Bring sunscreen: Always carry sunscreen, as the area experiences high-altitude and strong sun rays.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash behind: Respect the environment and take all trash with you.
  • Unleash your pets: Keep your pets on the leash, avoid them wandering around the area, and endanger wildlife.
  • Trespass on private lands: Stick to public trails and parks, and avoid trespassing on private property.

Safety and Health

When visiting Chester, keep in mind the following safety and health tips:

Safety in Chester

  • Beware of wildfire: Always keep updated on the fire and wildfire conditions and have an emergency kit on hand at all times.
  • Beware of dangerous wildlife: The area is home to bears, mountain lions, and other wildlife, so understand how to avoid encounters with wildlife.
  • Carry enough water: Always carry enough water with you, since dehydration can quickly become a danger.

Health in Chester

  • Altitude sickness: Although the area is not particularly high above sea level, some might experience altitude sickness that should be dealt with reserving plenty of hydration and rest.
  • Sunburn and cold: Whether summer or winter, the sun or cold in Chester can cause problems. Take appropriate protective measures like sunscreen or a winter coat.

Getting to Chester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chester is located in a rural area but connected to transportation from nearby towns or cities. Here are some ways to get to Chester:

  • By car: Chester is easily accessible by car with Highway 36 running through it. It is within a 2-hour drive from the larger cities of Redding or Chico.
  • By bus: Greyhound Bus Lines run from Redding to Chester.
  • By plane: The nearest airport is Susanville Municipal Airport (SVE), which offers limited services. Alternatively, consider flying into Sacramento International Airport (SMF) or Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), both of which are about a two-hour drive away.

How to Get Around in Chester

The town of Chester is small and easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Many of the hiking and biking trails are accessible from town. Alternatively, you can also rent a car or take a taxi to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Chester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chester is located in an area with many other natural wonders, making it an excellent starting point for further exploration. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • Sundial Bridge in Redding: An iconic pedestrian bridge spanning the Sacramento River in the town of Redding.
  • Crater Lake in Oregon: Considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the US and is 3.5 hours drive from Chester.
  • Reno, Nevada: Only two hours away, offering a vibrant city experience with its casinos, entertainment, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Chester has so much to offer to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those who are looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply relax and unwind, Chester is the perfect destination. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your ultimate trip to Chester, California, and make unforgettable memories.