Talk about small communities! The historic community of Johnsville is now surrounded by the Plumas Eureka State Park. There’s one business operated for the recreation visitors: the Iron Door Restaurant. But that’s all it takes to make Johnsville a worthwhile side trip while recreating in any of the outstanding nearby locations.
You live in Johnsville for the setting, not the services. Blairsden and Graeagle are only a few minutes away when you need gas or golf.
Johnsville is credited by many historians as one of the oldest ski racing areas in the western hemisphere. The Plumas Eureka Ski Bowl is considered the oldest ski area served by powered ski lifts.
There are lots of great eating places in this marvelous corner of Plumas County, but I never miss stopping in the Iron Door for the rustic charm and hearty meals.
The last census stated there are 71 homes. Many of them are structures dating back to the mining heyday of the late 1800s. Others are modern and for this part of the world pricey, upscale homes for summer or winter recreation residents. You live in Johnsville for the setting, not the services. Blairsden and Graeagle are only a few minutes away when you need gas or golf.
You live in Johnsville for the setting, not the services. Blairsden and Graeagle are only a few minutes away when you need gas or golf.
Johnsville is credited by many historians as one of the oldest ski racing areas in the western hemisphere. The Plumas Eureka Ski Bowl is considered the oldest ski area served by powered ski lifts. The Longboard Ski Revival series has been held there for many years. Skiers use wooden skis well over 10 feet long, leather boots, and period costumes. Now called Gold Mountain, the ski area has had off and on seasons lately. Check before coming for the downhill skiing. However, the State Park offers wonderful opportunities for ungroomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The snow is ideal, the setting charming.
The Plumas Eureka State Park is a perfect blend of history interpretation of the gold mining era and outstanding scenery, fishing in two lakes, trekking to the top of Eureka Peak for the great views, and rustic camping with hot showers, and few crowds. The park offers the base and trailhead for hiking and fishing in the Jamison Creek area and some of the most remote sections of the Lakes Basin.
| Population: | 21 | Links: | Chamber of Commerce: www.easternplumaschamber.com Visitor Center: www.plumascounty.org |
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From Highway 89 between Graeagle and Blairden, travel west up the paved county road #506. The intersections are well signed. After entering the State Park, the signed road to the right (north) takes you a short distance to Johnsville and the ski area less than a mile after leaving town. To the left (south) the other road goes to the museum and campground.