Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Head here for the finest dining on the lake with upscale Modern American, Italian-influen-
ced cuisine (like the simply prepared rock shrimp and crab alfredo), and bar food that's ex-
ecuted with real panache. The setting is casual and fun - wall lanterns and a crackling fire
- made all the more warm by the best wine list in town.
SCENIC DRIVE: LASSEN SCENIC BYWAY
Even in the peak of summer, you'll have the Lassen Scenic Byway mostly to yourself. The
long loop though Northern California wilderness skirts the edge of Lassen Volcanic Na-
tional Park and circles Lassen Peak, one of the largest dormant volcanoes on the planet.
It mostly covers the big green patches on the map: expansive areas perfect for hiking,
fishing, camping or just getting lost. This is a place where few people venture, and those
who do come back with stories.
The launching point for this big loop could be either Redding or Sacramento, but there
are few comforts for travelers along this course. The only cities in this neck of the woods
- little places like Chester and Susanville - aren't all that exciting on their own; they're
mostly just places to gas up, buy some beef jerky and enjoy the week's only hot meal. But
the banner attractions are visible in every direction - the ominous, dormant volcanic
peak of Lassen, the windswept high plains and the seemingly endless wilderness of the
Lassen and Plumas National Forests.
This loop is formed by Hwy 36, Hwy 44 and Hwy 89. (You can see the map and some of
the highlights at
www.byways.org/explore/byways/2195.
) Its best to do the drive
between late June through mid-October. Other times of the year some of these roads
close due to snow.
Information
Chester & Lake Almanor Chamber of Commerce
TOURIST INFORMATION
( 530-258-2426;
www.chester-lakealmanor.com
;
529 Main St, Chester; 9am-4pm Mon-Fri)
Get information about lodging and recreation around the lake, in Lassen National Forest
and in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Lassen National Forest Almanor Ranger Station
TOURIST INFORMATION
(
530-258-2141; 900 E Hwy 36;
8am-4:30pm Mon-Fri)
