Fall Adventures Around Lake Almanor
There's something about autumn at Lake Almanor that makes you want to lace up your boots, cast a line, and settle in by a crackling campfire. As summer's crowds head home, the lake's beauty takes center stage: mornings spark with mist rising off glassy water, aspen groves ignite in gold and rust, and crisp evenings invite long conversations under starlit skies. Here are a few of our favorite ways to embrace fall in this mountain playground—then swing by Waganupa Brewing afterward to trade stories over a well-earned pint.
Stretch Your Legs on the Recreation Trail
The 19-mile Lake Almanor Recreation Trail circles the lake, offering lakeside vistas, shaded forest sections, and plenty of spots to pause and take it all in. You don't need to conquer the whole loop; pick a six- or ten-mile segment and make an afternoon of it. Look for the hidden waterfall near Canyon Dam or soak up sunrise views at Hamilton Branch. Whenever you finish, you'll feel that perfect trail-end glow.plumascounty+1
Chase Trophy Trout Along the Shoreline
With 52 miles of shoreline and clear, cool water, Lake Almanor is a fisherman's dream. Fall brings out the river-run rainbows and hefty browns, and the quieter banks make for peaceful mornings. Whether you're bank fishing from Surprise Point or drifting from the Almanor Campground launch, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—otters, osprey, and deer are common early risers here.recreation+1
Campfires and Cozy Nights
Almanor Campground and nearby North Shore spots fill up with colorful tents and wood smoke as temperatures dip. Gather your crew, pitch a site lakeside, and watch leaves flutter overhead. As darkness falls, build a fire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy that mountain hush. Fall nights here are cool but never too cold, so bring your favorite blanket and settle in for stories that stretch long into the evening.usda+1
Pedal Through Autumn Colors
Mountain bikers and trail runners love Lake Almanor's network of logging roads and singletrack. Fall's crisp air and empty trails create the perfect playground for two wheels—or two feet. Head out before sunrise to catch that magical moment when golden aspens glow against the ridge. Finish your ride in town and celebrate with a warm meal or hot coffee at one of Chester's cozy cafés.campalmanor
Main Street Market and Seasonal Festivities
Every second Friday through October, Chester's Main Street Market transforms downtown. Local farmers, artisans, and food vendors fill the street with pumpkins, honey, handcrafted wares, and more. October also brings the Scarecrow Contest and Merchants' Trick-or-Treat Parade, a family-friendly celebration that turns town into one big autumn block party. Don't miss the festive window displays and creative scarecrow entries!
Quiet Moments by the Water
Some days call for nothing more than a blanket, a good book, and the gentle rhythm of waves on the shore. Find a secluded cove, set up your spot, and watch migrating birds carve V-shaped paths overhead. As the sun lowers, the lake's surface shimmers with autumn hues—perfect for pausing and simply being.
Gather at Waganupa Brewing
No matter which adventure you choose, you're bound to work up an appetite and a thirst. Our doors are open Wednesday through Saturday, 4–9 PM, and Sunday Fun Day, noon–5 PM. Stop by to warm up, swap your best fall photos, and discover our latest seasonal offerings. Whether you've just logged ten miles on the trail or roasted the perfect marshmallow, we'd love to hear your Lake Almanor story—and raise a glass to autumn's magic together.