ABOUT  THE  AREA


The Lake Almanor basin lies in the transition  zone between the Sierra Nevada mountains
to the south and the Cascades to the north.  At an elevation of about 4500 feet above sea level,
the lakeside residential areas enjoy four distinct seasons but without either extreme winter cold
or extreme summer heat.  This is a slow-paced region, lacking in many urban coveniences but
overflowing with opportunities for both outdoor recreation and quiet contemplation.  It's an area
that invites you to slow down, observe the natural beauty of the lake, mountains and forests,
and take stock of what is important in life.  People tend to wave, smile and say hello, even if they
haven't been introduced.  It's a bit of rural America, proud of its heritage and working to keep it intact.


 

Northern end of Lake Almanor, with Chester near the shoreline (left) and Mt. Lassen in the background (right).



The population of the Lake Almanor basin fluctuates significantly between
summer and winter.  Officially, there are about 4500 people who claim residency
in the basin, with about 2000 of those listing Chester as their home.  That number
increases substantially during the warm months as visitors arrive to enjoy the area
and take up temporary quarters in motels, rented homes and the many campgrounds
that circle the region.  But the population drops rapidly as winter approaches.  By late
autumn, most visitors have departed and local "snow birds" have headed for warmer
climates.  Once the snow flies, local road traffic is limited to the hardy souls who work
year 'round in the area or who enjoy the "quiet season" and its unique landscape.

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