Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Western Power Company and is now ostensibly owned by the Pacific Gas & Electric
Company. The lake is surrounded by lush meadows and tall evergreens and was once
little-visited. Now, a 3000-acre ski resort sits on the hills above, with properties continu-
ally being developed near its shore and power boats zipping across its surface. The north-
eastern section in particular has become particularly ritzy and there are even a few gated
communities. On the rugged southern end you'll find miles with nothing but pine trees.
The main town near the lake, Chester (population 2500, elevation 4528ft), isn't a looker.
Though you could whiz right by and dismiss it as a few blocks of nondescript roadside
storefronts, this little community, while outwardly drab, has a fledgling art scene hidden
along the backroads for those willing to explore. It also offers some comfy places to stay
but none as exciting or woodsy as you'll find along the lake.
Activities
Rent boats and water-sports equipment at many places around the lake.
Bodfish Bicycles & Quiet Mountain Sports
CYCLING, OUTDOORS
(
530-258-2338;
www.bodfishbicycles.com
;
152 Main St, Chester;
10am-5pm Tue-Sat, noon-4pm
Sun)
This outfit rents bicycles ($33 per day), cross-country skis and snowshoes, and sells ca-
noes and kayaks. It's a great source of mountain-biking and bicycle-touring advice. If you
want just a taste of the lovely rides possible in this part of the state, make this a priority
stop.
Sleeping & Eating
The best sleeping options for campers are in the surrounding national forest.
Chester
Along Chester's main drag you'll find a scattering of '50s-style inns and a few chain
lodgings (the nicest of which is the fairly overpriced Best Western Rose Quartz Inn). Many
of these places keep seasonal hours, and when you live in a place where it can snow in
mid-June, the season is short. Restaurants are of the burger-and-fries or mom-n-pop-diner
