Discover Plumas Eureka

Plumas Eureka invites you to explore its gold-mining history alongside its natural attractions. Plumas-Eureka State Park is home to historic sites and a variety of trails, as well as waterside activities. It offers a varied mix for planning your trip: you can learn about processing gold-bearing quartz, watch demonstrations, or choose between an easy loop trail and a more challenging hike.

Gold History, Demonstrations, and Tours

A striking testament to the history of mining is the five-story Mohawk Stamp Mill, where gold-bearing quartz was processed. Demonstrations of traditional woodworking are also offered in the historic area, and tours of the Assay Office provide further insight. During your visit, you can learn about different aspects of work in the historic mining area rather than focusing on just one building.

Craftsmanship and gold panning are also among the park’s activities: blacksmithing demonstrations are held in summer. Supervised gold-panning programs are offered along Jamison Creek during this season. Gold Discovery Days take place on the third Saturday and Sunday in July. If you plan to take an interpretive tour of the Moriarty House, you must register in advance through the Museum Store. Be sure to take this registration requirement into account before your tour.

Plumas-Eureka State Park is located in the traditional homeland of the Yamaní (Mountain) Maidu. This connection is as much a part of understanding the place as the visible reminders of its gold-mining history.

Trails for Different Types of Hikes

The Madora Lake Trail is an easy, 1.60-mile, ADA-accessible loop. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the surrounding forest and Madora Lake, and watch for birds and fish.

The Eureka Peak Loop Trail is different: it is rated moderate to strenuous and has significant elevation changes. The two trail profiles give you a practical reference for planning your day.

The Museum Trail is 1.2 miles long and passes through forest and wetlands along an old canal. The park also has trails that provide access to the Pacific Crest Trail. This adds more ways to experience the area on foot beyond the historic sites; the specific trail details can help you distinguish between different interests as you plan.

Water Activities at the Lake and Creek

On hot summer days, Eureka Lake offers opportunities for swimming and fishing. In winter, ice skating is also possible when conditions permit. Within Plumas-Eureka State Park, Jamison Creek is a fishing spot with wild rainbow trout. You can consider these water activities as a focus for your stay, alongside historic tours and trails.

Discover More Places

To view more local pages as you plan your trip: Johnsville, Chester, Portola, Quincy, Lake Almanor Peninsula, Lake Almanor Country Club, Cromberg and Graeagle.

For the broader trip overview: Plumas.