Things To Do
in Susanville
Susanville is a scenic northern California town set at the edge of the Sierra Nevada foothills, surrounded by pine forests and open skies. It serves as a gateway to Lassen National Forest and the Lassen Volcanic National Park region, offering outdoor adventures and historic small-town charm. The community blends a logging and ranching heritage with a growing array of shops, eateries, and cultural events.
Visitors can expect easy-to-navigate streets, friendly locals, and access to lakes, trails, and wildlife across four distinct seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Susanville Railroad Depot, where you can admire the architecture and learn about the town's rich railway history. As you stroll through the charming streets, stop by local shops and boutiques to get a feel for the community. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café, savoring homemade pastries and locally sourced coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the Lassen County Museum to explore fascinating exhibits about the area's history, including Native American artifacts and pioneer stories. Afterward, take a walk in the nearby Memorial Park, where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Consider a picnic lunch in the park while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
As evening approaches, dine at one of Susanville's popular restaurants, where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, soaking up the quaint ambiance as the sun sets. You may also catch a live music performance or community event if you're lucky.
Wake up and drive to Eagle Lake, just a short distance from Susanville, where stunning views await. Enjoy a serene morning by the lakeside, perfect for bird watching and photography as the sun rises over the water. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy while you listen to the gentle sounds of nature.
Spend your afternoon engaged in a variety of recreational activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm lake waters. Alternatively, you can hike the scenic trails around the lake to take in the breathtaking mountain views. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas.
As dusk falls, return to Susanville and unwind with dinner at a lakeside restaurant, relishing the day's adventures while enjoying the sunset. Afterward, treat yourself to some ice cream at a local parlor, perfect for a sweet ending to your day. Stroll through the town, reflecting on the beauty of nature you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-5 |
| 🎟Movie or event ticket | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to Lassen National Forest and outdoor recreation
- Relaxed small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
- Historic Uptown Susanville with charming architecture
- Affordable lodging and dining compared to larger cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Rural access; some services limited outside peak season
- Winter travel can require preparation for snow and road closures
- Smaller shopping options relative to metro areas
Places to Visit in Susanville
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic wooden fort ruins and interpretive displays set against evergreen backdrops, ideal for early morning or golden hour shots.
Scenic river vistas with trees and wide skies; great for landscape and wildlife photography, especially at sunset.
Historic train depot and charming Main Street buildings provide character-rich city photography opportunities.
Panoramic high-desert-forest vistas and pine silhouettes perfect for seasonal color and wide-angle shots.
Food in Susanville
Susanville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty beef burgers featuring local beef and big toppings, a staple at several casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Comfort dishes with Basque roots that show up in some local-serving restaurants, often featuring lamb or savory stews.
Smoked meats and barbecue sides—popular for sharing after a day outdoors.
Homestyle pies and desserts made with regional berries and locally sourced fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, breads, jams, and small-batch goods from local growers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common courtesy is appreciated. A brief hello or nod when passing people on the street is typical in small towns.
Be mindful of noise, especially in residential areas evening and night; respect private property and posted signs on trails.
Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, leash pets where required, and pack out all trash on trails and in parks.
Safety
Tipping in Susanville
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, standard tipping is 15-20% of the bill before tax. For counter service or casual cafes, a small tip or rounding up is appreciated. Tipping is customary for service staff.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at restaurants and shops; many places also take mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay). Some rural or small venues may accept cash only, so carry a small amount of cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; dry conditions but watch for wildfire smoke in dry years. Hydration and sun protection are essential; late-summer thunderstorms can occur.
Mild days and brisk evenings; fall foliage brings golds and oranges in the surrounding forests. Great for photography and outdoor walks before winter sets in.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; some mountain passes may be impacted by snow or ice. Pack layers, traction devices for footwear, and be prepared for slower travel.
Cooling rains give way to blooming meadows and greener landscapes. Trails may be muddy early in the season; ideal for wildlife viewing.
Susanville at Night
Hiking in Susanville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Alpine lakes, volcanic features, and varied terrains offering a range of hiking experiences.
Forest trails around the Beckwourth area with scenic views and access to nature.
Continued hiking opportunities along the river corridor and surrounding woodlands.
Airports
How to reach Susanville by plane.
Major regional airport with a wide range of domestic flights; about a 2.5–3 hour drive from Susanville.
Smaller regional airport serving Northern California; a practical option for connecting travel to Susanville area.
Larger airport with extensive domestic and international connections; about a 3.5–4.5 hour drive depending on route.
Smaller regional airport offering limited flights; a potential option for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Relatively family-oriented community with good schools and outdoor activities.
Residents and visitors drawn to fishing, hiking, hunting, and camping.
A stable population that favors a slower pace and scenic surroundings.
Temporary residents connected to forestry, tourism, and agriculture in the region.
Lassen Community College contributes to a student presence and local energy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common regional activities with nearby lakes and forests offering seasonal opportunities.
Winter sports in the surrounding mountains when snow is present.
Local courses and seasonal outdoor recreation appeal to residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susanville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, veggie sandwiches, and side dishes; many menus offer vegetarian options; ask for substitutions and confirm ingredient lists if needed.