Things to do from Cedar Lodge

Your winter adventure starts here!

The Chester and Lake Almanor area is a fantastic destination for snowmobiling, with miles of scenic winter trails winding through the forests and mountains of the Lassen National Forest. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride through snowy pine forests or a full day of exploring the mountains, the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for winter adventure.

Popular Snowmobiling Areas

• Chester-Lake Almanor Snowmobile Park: A convenient starting point for exploring the area’s snowmobile trails.
• Swain Mountain: Enjoy mountain scenery and winter riding opportunities in the Lassen National Forest.
• Morgan Summit: Access forested mountain terrain and snow-covered trails.
• Jonesville and Fredonyer: Additional staging areas for exploring the surrounding winter landscape.

These staging areas provide access to a network of groomed and ungroomed trails, depending on snow conditions and seasonal operations.

Plan Your Ride

Before heading out, check current snow conditions, trail grooming reports, road access, and staging-area information. Conditions can change quickly throughout the winter, and not all trails or parking areas are accessible at all times.

Helpful Resources:

• Lake Almanor Area Chamber of Commerce: Snowmobiling Information
• Lassen National Forest: Recreation & Trail Information

Pack your winter gear, bring your snowmobile, and discover the beauty of Northern California’s mountain country!

More winter fun

• Downhill Skiing: Coppervale Ski Hill, a small hill east of Chester run by Lassen Community College, with a poma lift and a rope tow. There is no big resort close by.
• Snowshoeing in Lassen: Free ranger guided snowshoe walks in Lassen Volcanic National Park, usually on winter weekends from January into March, for ages eight and up. Tickets are free on the day at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. Check with the park for this year’s schedule.

Enjoy scenic mountain drives, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and peaceful lakeside views as the region transitions from winter to summer.

Things to Do in Spring

• Lake Almanor: Enjoy fishing, scenic drives, wildlife watching, photography, and beautiful mountain views.
• Hiking & Nature: Explore local forest trails and visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, where seasonal snow conditions may affect access.
• Explore Chester: Visit local shops, parks, and the Collins Pine Museum to learn about the area’s history.
• Memorial Weekend Craft Fair: Over Memorial Day weekend, the Memorial Weekend Craft Fair fills Chester Park with handmade crafts, art, gifts, and local vendors. It’s a fun way to experience the local community and kick off the summer season!

June is a beautiful time to explore the Chester and Lake Almanor area. Enjoy mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and the start of summer activities throughout the Lassen region.

Things to Do in June

• Lake Almanor: Enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and relaxing along the shoreline.
• Hiking & Nature: Explore forest trails, discover waterfalls, and visit Lassen Volcanic National Park to see its unique volcanic landscapes.
• Drakesbad Guest Ranch: Usually opens in June. Visit the historic, rustic guest ranch in Warner Valley for a unique Lassen experience. Activities may include horseback riding, hiking, and dining by reservation. Check availability and road conditions before visiting.
• Biking & Scenic Drives: Ride the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail, enjoy mountain views, and explore the scenic roads around Chester and the lake.
• Local Events: Look for community events, including the Almanor Art Show and the Mile High 100 cycling event, which typically take place in June.

Plan Your Visit

Some higher-elevation roads and trails may still be affected by snow early in the month. Check current conditions and make reservations for activities at Drakesbad Guest Ranch before heading out. Come enjoy the fresh mountain air, beautiful lakes, and endless opportunities to explore!

• Lake Almanor: Enjoy boating, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and relaxing along the shoreline.
• Hiking & Nature: Explore scenic forest trails, enjoy mountain views, and discover the unique volcanic landscapes of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
• Fourth of July Celebration: Celebrate Independence Day with Chester’s traditional parade, craft fair, community festivities, and spectacular fireworks over Lake Almanor at dusk.
• Almanor Grebe Festival: Usually held in early August, this special wildlife festival celebrates the Western and Clark’s grebes with birdwatching, boat tours, guided walks, and family-friendly activities.
• Arts & Crafts Faire: Usually held toward the end of August, the Lake Almanor Community Foundation’s Arts and Crafts Faire is a great place to browse handmade items, discover local artists, and find unique gifts.
• Biking & Scenic Drives: Enjoy the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail, explore winding mountain roads, and take in beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests.

Plan Your Visit

Summer is a popular time to visit, especially during holiday weekends and local festivals. Check event dates and park conditions before heading out, and consider reserving boat rentals and accommodations early.

• Street Rod Extravaganza: Usually held in September at Chester Park, this popular classic car show features vintage cars, custom hot rods, awards, food, and family-friendly activities.
• Fall Colors & Scenic Drives: Take a drive around Lake Almanor and through the surrounding forests to enjoy the changing colors and peaceful mountain scenery.
• Hiking & Biking: Explore local trails in the Lassen National Forest and around Lake Almanor while enjoying cooler temperatures.
• Fishing & Lakeside Relaxation: Enjoy fishing, wildlife watching, photography, and the beautiful views around Lake Almanor.
• Duck Hunting Season: Waterfowl season typically opens in October, attracting hunters to the area’s lakes, wetlands, and surrounding wildlife habitats. Check current California hunting regulations, season dates, and licensing requirements before your trip.

Plan Your Visit

Fall is a beautiful time to slow down and enjoy the outdoors before winter arrives. Bring layers for cooler mornings and evenings, check local conditions, and discover the small-town charm and natural beauty of the Chester and Lake Almanor area!

• Duck Hunting: November is part of the fall waterfowl hunting season. Explore nearby hunting opportunities around the Lake Almanor Basin and surrounding wetlands. Check California’s current hunting regulations and season dates before your trip.
• Christmas Angels Soup Supper: Usually held in early November at the Lake Almanor Elks Lodge in Chester, this community fundraiser features a variety of soups, homemade treats, and a silent auction supporting local families through the Christmas Angels program.
• Holiday Shopping Tour: In November, explore Chester and neighboring communities during the Lake Almanor Area Holiday Shopping Tour, featuring local shops, handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and small-town holiday charm.
• Christmas Tree Lighting & Ice Skating: Celebrate the holiday season at Chester Park, where community festivities, holiday lights, and seasonal ice skating help welcome winter. Skating is weather-dependent and schedules may vary.
• Snowmobiling: If early-season snowfall is sufficient, snowmobile trails may open in December. Explore the surrounding forests and mountain terrain when conditions permit. Check snow reports, trail grooming, and access before heading out.
• Snowshoeing & Winter Scenery: Enjoy peaceful winter walks, snow-covered pine trees, and scenic views around the Lassen National Forest and Lake Almanor area.