The Lost Sierra -Wild and Scenic

Located approximately 45 miles north of Truckee California, lies the “Wild and Scenic” Lost Sierra Region. A nature lover's paradise offering endless opportunities for camping, hiking, mountain biking, dirt biking, stargazing, and of course, fly fishing.



Matt McCourtney, Lost Sierra Fly Guide, is one of only a few fishing guides to be permitted with the US Forest Service to guide the Middle Fork Feather River and The North Fork Yuba River. His guided trips range from wading, oar raft floats to packraft adventures. Residing in a small ghost town in the Lost Sierra, Matt spends about 80-100 days a year on the rivers he guides. Constantly reading the water, the environment, and the fishing, he always knows the best waters for your next adventure in The Lost Sierra!



Among the numerous rivers that wind their way through the region, the Middle Fork Feather River stands out as a world-class fly fishing destination. It was one of the first rivers in the nation to be awarded the National Wild and Scenic designation and is the only un-dammed arm of the Feather River. The scenery and wild native trout that call this river home are some of the best-kept secrets of the Northern Sierras. The native trout in these waters have a beautiful red hue, bright rosy cheeks, and fins, making them a very unique line of Rainbow Trout. In addition to the Native Bows, there are Native Brown Trout that will bend your rod and blow your mind as catching is becoming more rare these days. But the native rainbows deliver in both size and beauty, leaving a smile on your face when you get to meet one in person. Matt has always been an innovator, pushing the limits, catching large native trout on lightweight 2 and 3-weight fly rods on hand-tied flies is his specialty!



The North Fork Yuba River is another highlight of the region, famous for its vibrant green-blue waters and deep gold rush history. The river is directly fed from the alpine lakes of the Lakes Basin featuring 20 crystal clear small lakes with abundant recreational opportunities. The North Yuba River runs along old historic towns such as Sierra City and Downieville offering great places to stay the night or a long weekend, grab some food, and kick back and relax. Fly fishing the North Fork Yuba River is a breeze with access from Highway 49 at pullouts as you travel from town to town. Plenty of active trout, mesmerizing scenery, and historic little towns make it a perfect weekend getaway!



The Lost Sierra Adventure Guide!

The Lost Sierra is rich in history, dotted with charming small towns, and bursting with unspoiled natural beauty, visiting the Lost Sierra is an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here are some other great things to do in the Lost Sierra!

Cycling - The Lost Sierra is growing from the recent recreational growth. Downieville has put the Lost Sierra on the Internation Map and the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship is responsible for this exciting and explosive growth. In addition to world-class Mountain Biking and singletrack trails, The Bikepacking opportunities are almost endless with close to 1000 miles of smooth logging roads and endless vast nature.

Here is just one of the many Bikepacking Adventures I have been on recently in the Lost Sierra!

Hiking & Backpacking - Hiking and Backpacking are world-class in the Lost Sierra with the Pacific Crest Trail traveling right through the region. The PCT can be accessed locally from various points for day hikes in addition to hiking and backpacking opportunities such as The Lakes Basin Recreation Area, Sierra City Hiking and Camping, and Bucks Lake area just to name a few!

Dirt Biking - The Lost Sierra is quickly becoming the Moto Capital of CA! With the majority of the singletrack trails being “Multi-use,” you can ride your dirtbike almost anywhere you can ride your mountain bike (with a few exceptions, please respect all trail use regulations and signage) Trust me, there are more miles of amazing buff moto singletrack than anywhere else I have ridden in California! The two top locations are Downieville and Mt Hough. Between those two locations alone there are more than 200 miles of moto-friendly singletrack!

Camping - Camping opportunities are endless. Tired of having to reserve reservations 6 months in advance? Not here. Sure a few popular spots book up in advance but there are so many options. If you spend a little time and do some research you will not be disappointed!

High Sierra Music Festival - In Quincy has quickly become a huge attraction! Ziggy Marly and Primus are headliners this year. Check it out!

Local Craft Beers and Wineries! Local craft beer to refresh your adventures! Check out the Brewers Lair, Ronin Fermentation Project & Quintopia Brewing in Quincy!

Plan your visit - The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship Guide To the Lost Sierra

Places to Stay - Lost Sierra Discovery Center’s list of places to stay!