Feather River Scenic Byway Gamified Pass
Expiration: 365 days after purchase
Included Venues
See locations on an interactive map.
Sandy Beach is a dispersed beach with river access to the North Fork Feather River, just east of Jarbo Gap. The site has year-round access, however is busiest during the summer months. Access to the parking area from Highway 70 is difficult and re-entry onto the highway is dangerous. Take care when entering the roadway in the westbound direction.
Just outside Quincy, this campground offers a classic Sierra camping experience along the cool, clear waters of Spanish Creek. Towering pines, spacious sites, and a family-friendly swimming hole make it a perfect stop for those looking to combine outdoor adventure with quick access to town amenities.
Tucked away along the sparkling North Fork of the Feather River, this peaceful campground is a favorite for fishing, rafting, and relaxing under shady pines. With easy river access and close proximity to the byway, it’s a great basecamp for exploring nearby trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
The heart of Plumas County history.
This is the county’s flagship museum, housing thousands of artifacts, photographs, and archives from the Gold Rush, Maidu culture, and early logging/railroad days. The building itself includes a charming Victorian home next door, plus access to the Pioneer Schoolhouse and restored courthouse.
Birdwatchers rejoice! This expansive preserve is a wildlife haven, home to sandhill cranes, hawks, and sweeping valley views.
A hiker’s paradise! Over 50 glacial lakes sparkle among granite peaks and wildflower meadows. Don’t miss Sardine Lake.
See one of the railroad’s greatest engineering feats — a full loop of track designed to help trains climb the steep Sierra grade.
The heart of Plumas County — stroll charming shops, enjoy local dining, and visit the Plumas County Museum for history and culture.
Relax in natural riverside hot pools surrounded by canyon cliffs — a true hidden gem for soaking under the stars.
Discover Gold Rush history! This restored stamp mill in Belden shows how ore was crushed during the mining boom.
Step onto the world-famous Pacific Crest Trail right here in Belden. Even a short walk gives you a taste of the thru-hiker experience!
Part of the Sierra’s famous “Stair Step of Power,” this hydroelectric plant shows how the river has powered communities for generations.
On the way back to Oroville, pull over and take in the views of the valley below
Stop for lunch at this popular highway rest spot.
Built in 1937 using horse and wagon to locally source the rock used to build the 18"-thick walls, Rock House is a unique structure perfect for a few selfies, even though the restaurant is currently closed.
Pull over and take in the views of the West Branch Feather River bridge and house boats in the Lime Saddle Marina
Tour the hatchery and watch salmon climb the fish ladder.
An iconic and visually stunning temple that highlights the history of Gold Rush-era Chinese-Americans in Oroville
The cultural heart of the county seat, with locally owned restaurants, shops, and events
Explore the crown jewel of the California State Water Project and see where all forks of the Feather River converge
Boating, hiking, and views of Lake Oroville from this recreation hub.
Just downstream of Tobin, two historic bridges—one for Highway 70 and one for the Union Pacific railroad—stand nearly atop each other over the North Fork Feather River. The railroad bridge (built in 1910) is a camelback Pratt truss, while the highway bridge (built in 1936) is a single‑span steel Pratt truss. Visitors can pull off at the roadside turnout for photos, train watching, and appreciation of these marvels of early 20th‑century engineering.
A welcoming riverside stop that blends comfort, hospitality, and canyon charm. The cozy café serves hearty meals, breakfast burritos, burgers, milkshakes, and hot coffee—especially popular with PCT hikers, road-trippers, and RV guests. The attached RV park offers full hookups, showers, and cabins, all nestled beside the Feather River’s flowing current. It’s the perfect rest point mid-drive.
This intermediate-level trail begins near the community of Tobin and climbs steeply up the south side of the Feather River Canyon. Along the approximately 2.5-mile route, the trail passes Colby Creek and winds toward Buck Creek in a rugged yet rewarding wilderness setting. Hikers enjoy spectacular canyon views, pristine creek crossings, and a real sense of solitude in the North Fork Feather River watershed
Spanning the North Fork Feather River near the vintage community of Belden, this historic one‑lane Pratt truss bridge dates to 1913. Once built for rail and power infrastructure, it now serves as a scenic and nostalgic passage into the canyon. From here, you can stroll across to Belden, watch trains pass nearby, and soak in canyon vistas—a moment that beautifully blends history and scenery.
Once a bustling Gold Rush town in the 1850s, Rich Bar is now a scenic river pull-off where visitors can try their hand at recreational gold panning along the North Fork of the Feather River. This official California Historical Landmark (#337) is just 4 miles southeast of Belden and offers interpretive signage, wildflower views, and a powerful connection to early Sierra mining history
Spectacular granite tunnels carved through sheer canyon walls, where the road drifts into the mountain — a masterpiece of early 20th‑century highway engineering.
A stunning pair of overlapping bridges — one for the highway, one for the historic railroad — spanning the North Fork Feather River in a strikingly photogenic setting.
A full-service stop with convenience store, diner-style food, fuel, and RV hookups—ideal for a break before heading deeper into the canyon.
Catch a train crossing this 172-foot-high trestle — one of the Feather River Route’s most iconic photo ops.
Railroad magic! This rare “Y”-shaped trestle is one of the most famous railfan sites in the world. Watch trains make the dramatic curve high above the valley.
Step back to the Gold Rush at this state park, where a preserved mining town meets stunning alpine trails and lakes.
Climb aboard history in Portola — where you can explore vintage locomotives and even operate a real train