California might be most well known for its beaches, but another fantastic feature of this beautiful state is are the dozens of beautiful mountain towns that make for a great family camping trip in the summer, ski trip in the winter, or even to take a peek into California’s Gold Rush history.
The mountain towns of California are some of the most picturesque in the country. With towering peaks, pristine lakes, and a laid-back small town feel, they are a breath of fresh air – literally and figuratively.
» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey, waterfalls in Southern California, and national parks.
Most of these mountain towns are located in Northern California, so a road trip might be in order. In many of these towns, you’ll find outdoor activities, camping, skiing, and nature trails to enjoy.
Why We Love Them
California mountain towns are small, typically rural communities located at high elevations. They’re known for their picturesque views and slower pace of life.
People seek out mountain towns to escape the stress of city life. They crave a slower pace, less traffic, noise, and pollution. Mountain towns offer peace and quiet in spades!
Luckily for you, California is home to some of the most breathtaking mountain towns. From small, rustic communities to bustling ones, let’s take a look at some of them!
15 Exciting Mountain Towns in California to See
#1 Mt. Shasta
Mount Shasta is a city located in Siskiyou County in Northern California, on the outskirts of the mountain by the same name. It’s known for its stunningly beautiful landscape and the abundance of outdoor activities, like hiking, swimming, fishing, and kayaking at the lake.
All of these activities are possible thanks to the surrounding Shasta-Trinity National Forest – the largest in the state – that surrounds the city. That’s 2.2 million acres worth of outdoor playground.
There are too many great things to do to mention them all here, but a few notable ones are the Black Butte and Bunny Flat to Panther Meadows hikes, Castle Crags Wilderness, and the McCloud River recreation area.
#2 Big Bear Lake
Traversing south, you’ll find Big Bear Lake, one of the top destination mountain towns in Southern California. Many locals escape Los Angeles and San Bernadino and head for the lake, both winter and summer, for the plethora of great outdoor activities.
Whether you just want to get outdoors and do some weekend camping, or you really love downhill skiing, or hiking around the lake, you can do it all in Big Bear.
According to BigBear.com, Big Bear Lake is a manmade, fresh water lake seven miles long and about 1/2 mile wide. It’s perfect for water sports, fishing, swimming, and observing the abundant wildlife in the area.
#3 Bridgeport
Bridgeport is a small town with an equally small population, not far from the Nevada border, north of Mammoth Lakes.
There are many great places to visit in Bridgeport, such as the relaxing Travertine Hot Springs where there are many natural hot springs to take a dip in.
If you like to explore abandoned places and old history, visiting the Bodie State Historical Park is a must!
Located just outside of Bridgeport, the abandoned gold-mining town has remained virtually unchanged since its heyday in the late 1800s. Many original buildings are still standing, but a state of quiet and decay has settled over the place.
#4 Grass Valley
The Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to the city of Grass Valley. Its name pretty much tells you what kind of beautiful scenery you’ll see there.
The town has a long Gold Rush history, as the Empire Mine and North Star Mines, two of the most prolific mines in California, can be found there. To learn more, you can visit the Empire Mine State Historic Park. The mine is over 100 years old and produced 5.8 million ounces of gold before it was shut down.
You might think this town also shut down when the mines did, but it’s still a thriving town with great museums on the Gold Rush and even some wine tasting rooms.
You can visit the town in the summer and spring for its wildflower hikes and outdoor activities in the South Yuba River State Park.
#5 Auburn
Auburn, California, in the suburbs of Sacramento, began to thrive in the 19th century when gold was discovered in the area.
These days, Auburn is best known for its beauty and quiet community life. Even though it’s small, it has a lovely downtown area, and plenty of great places to eat, drink and shop.
If you’re looking for some fun, go on the Old Town Auburn Scavenger Hunt walking tour. You’ll see beautiful artwork and historic buildings while learning about Auburn’s past. It’s one of the most entertaining things to do in town.
#6 Mammoth Lakes
Cradled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes is a mountain town known for a plethora of outdoor activities and it’s many beautiful lakes.
Surrounded by lakes, streams, and snow-capped peaks, it offers plenty of hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities. What you do might depend on what time of year it is, but you’ll never be bored.
Some memorable things to do are hiking the John Muir trail, taking a dip in the many hot springs, visiting Devils Postpile National Monument where you can hike to Rainbow Falls, riding the Mammoth Mountain Gondola, and skiing at Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort.
If you’re into camping, there are many Mammoth Lakes campgrounds to check out, too.
#7 Dunsmuir
For those willing to look for it, adventure and beauty await in Dunsmuir, which sits next to the majestic Mt. Shasta.
With trails leading up Mt. Shasta and rivers that can be fished year-round, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature in Dunsmuir.
In addition, there are many hidden treasures in the town. Siskiyou Arts Museum is one such treasure; its quiet exterior hides a magical world of art and culture.
#8 Burney
If you’re looking for a beautiful California getaway, look no further than Burney! There is great RV camping near by that is a perfect stop over along a road trip.
The beauty of Burney is truly breathtaking. The town has a waterfall that’s 120 feet tall and cascades over a rocky cliff into a beautiful pool below.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and towering pines—it’s like being inside a painting!
If you want to take it all in, there are several hiking trails around the falls that lead through beautiful scenery as well as meadows full of wildflowers.
#9 Sonora
Sonora is a mountain town in California’s Gold Country with a rich history and a beautiful natural appeal.
The town is right next to Yosemite National Park—a treasure trove of natural beauty and a favorite destination for hikers and tourists alike.
Visitors come to gaze at the stunning landscapes, take in the fresh air, and enjoy outdoor activities.
For those interested in history and architecture, Sonora Opera Hall is a must-see. The redbrick building resembles the opera houses of London more than it does the mining towns of the American West.
#10 Bass Lake
Bass Lake is a mountain town known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The lake itself is located in the Sierra National Forest and is surrounded by several hiking trails, campgrounds, and cabins.
In the morning, you can enjoy a walk by the lake and see its clear blue waters; in the evening, you’ll see it beautifully colored by the sunset.
You can also hike to the Spring Cove trailhead from the campground. The trail leads you up to Goat Mountain, where you’ll find a historical lookout building.
#11 South Lake Tahoe
You can have your pick of mountains or beaches when you visit South Lake Tahoe. It’s a picturesque town that has been drawing tourists from around the world since its Gold Rush days. Before you go check out this information on the best times to visit.
There are numerous hiking trails through the forests surrounding South Lake Tahoe, as well as fishing spots on nearby rivers and lakes.
Furthermore, this town has a 38-room castle open for visitors! Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-inspired mansion, is an architectural masterpiece and has been listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
#12 Willow Creek
Willow Creek is the perfect place for a vacation, whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or an exhilarating adventure.
The town has plenty of hotels and restaurants that cater to every taste. Plus, there are plenty of places to explore nearby, including the many hiking trails and ski slopes.
While you’re exploring the trails, keep an eye out for Bigfoot. Yes, you read that right!
Willow Creek is known for its Bigfoot sightings. The town has several Bigfoot-themed locations, including a Bigfoot museum! Perhaps you’ll uncover some of the legend’s mysteries during your visit.
#13 Julian
It’s no secret that Julian, California, is one of America’s most beautiful mountain towns.
The presence of Santa Ysabel Creek has provided a serene and peaceful environment for local residents and visitors.
You can see the abundance of natural beauty all throughout town, but it’s especially evident in the area’s parks.
Moreover, you’ll need to visit Julian Pie Company to taste their famous apple pies! The crust is crispy and melts in your mouth, and they offer other choices of pie, donuts, and ice cream to tempt tourists.
#14 Truckee
Truckee is a town that’s straight out of the pages of an old western novel. The architecture is beautiful, and the people are friendly.
The town has an old-timey feel, with its beautiful roads and antique architecture. There are also plenty of opportunities to hike and ski if you want a little adventure.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, head to the Truckee River. You can rent a boat there and spend the day paddling downstream.
#15 Bishop
This small town is located in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains and is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Bishop has excellent hiking trails, rafting rivers, and fishing spots, as well as several museums and art galleries worth visiting, as well as a variety of restaurants and shops.
Every Memorial Day Bishop hosts Mule Days complete with the worlds largest non-motorized parade down Main Street. The downtown area is fun to walk around, with old-timey store facades, and a couple of really good bakeries.
Outside of town, you can go bouldering at the Buttermilk Boulders, explore Bishop Creek Canyon, which is also a great place for camping, or enjoy one of the lovely lakes like Lake Sabrina or Intake II. Visit petroglyphs in the Volcanic Tablelands. Unfortunately, their positions are not advertised because of vandalism.
#16 Nevada City
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Nevada City is famous for its gold rush history and small-town charm.
The town is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains, making it a perfect place for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, but without the crowds that you’ll get at Lake Tahoe and Big Bear. It’s truly charming.
It’s also known for the great annual festivals held there. For instance, if you venture there on the 27th of February, you can witness the annual Mardi Gras Parade & Street Faire. During the summer, there’s Movies Under the Pines, and for the holidays, there’s Victorian Christmas.
Conclusion
The mountain towns in California offer a variety of activities to suit everyone’s interests.
Whether you want to enjoy the quiet solitude or go hiking with friends, there’s something for you in California’s mountain towns.
So, now that you have 15 beautiful mountain towns in California to visit, it’s time to start planning your trip!
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.
I loved the Bridgeport and Bishop entries. I lived in and around Bishop for over 20yrs. Also Mammoth Lakes, just up the highway from Bishop. I worked in Mammoth for almost 3yrs.
We agree! Bishop is such a great little town.
Off the beaten path. Love it. Have been to all but one.need to do that one too.
That’s pretty impressive Mel!
You really left out the highest peak in the lower 48? Mount Whitney is absolutely amazing all year around.
I hear you! We were just featuring towns on this list. Mount Whitney is of course very beautiful.
I’ve been to about half of these places and actually live in one of them. Willow Creek. We also have a Bigfoot celebration every year. Parade, food, vendors of all kinds plus activities like horseshoe & softball tournaments, axe throw, log sawing and different activities for the kids. Trinity river runs through the town and you van fish, swim or go kayaking.