Construction continues on the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail north extension along California State Route 89, on the west shore of Lake Almanor.
This new paved Class I multi-use path runs 3.8 miles south from the big ditch diversion channel near Chester to connect with the existing trail on the Lassen National Forest. It sits at least 75 feet away from the highway, separated by a vegetated buffer that widens to 100 feet in some areas. Limited traffic crossflow helps keep the trail safer.
Caltrans leads this project, which aims to create paved, non-motorized pathways around the entire lake. Planning began in 2020 as part of the Caltrans Almanor West Rehab project. Chester contractor Dig It Construction started work in spring 2025. The project is expected to finish by late fall.
The first pavement layer is down, but a second, wider layer remains. Plans include gravel parking, benches, signs, and other improvements.
The forest along this trail was mostly destroyed by the 2021 Dixie Fire, which nearly burned Chester and nearby communities. Despite the burned landscape and ongoing construction, the trail offers impressive views of Lake Almanor and Lassen Peak.
Once complete, this trail will support picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. You can walk, hike, bike, e-bike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski here depending on the season.
How will you use this new trail once it opens? What activities do you look forward to trying on the west shore of Lake Almanor?
