Attractions and Places To See around Belden - Top 11

Belden, California, is rich in natural beauty, primarily centered around the North Feather River Canyon. You can explore the scenic Chips Creek canyon, where the Pacific Crest Trail climbs along its length, offering views of tributaries and diverse wildlife. The North Fork Feather River itself is ideal for camping and fishing. Other natural features include Rattlesnake Spring, a reliable source of clear, cold water, and nearby Plumas National Forest and Bucks Lake for extensive outdoor activities. The area is also known for swimming holes with natural waterslides and cliff jumping.

Yes, Belden has a few historical points of interest reflecting its past. The Eby Stamp Mill is a notable historical site featuring an old gold ore crusher, and it also serves as a trailhead for PCT hikers. You might also spot the quaint Old Gas Station Belden and the Belden Historic Bridge, which are remnants of the area's history.

Belden is a significant stop for Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers, offering access to various sections. You can hike along the Chips Creek canyon, which is part of the PCT. Another challenging trail involves crossing Indian Creek, where the Indian Creek Footbridge was damaged by fire, requiring hikers to cross via boulders during lower water levels. Other trails in the scenic canyon include the Ben Lomond Trail and Tobin Trail.

Belden Town primarily consists of the Belden Town Resort and Lodge. This resort offers a restaurant, cabins, and a small store catering to hikers' needs. It also provides campgrounds and RV hook-ups, making it a convenient resupply and rest stop, especially for those traversing the Pacific Crest Trail.

While Belden is primarily known for its wilderness and outdoor activities, the Belden Town Resort and Lodge offers basic facilities like a restaurant and campgrounds that can accommodate families. The natural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor exploration suitable for older children, such as easy walks along the river or enjoying the natural swimming holes.

When hiking in the Belden area, especially along the PCT, water sources are crucial. Rattlesnake Spring is known as a reliable source of clear, cold water. Along the PCT, particularly on the northern ascent from Belden, there are several good water sources. However, it's always advisable to carry sufficient water and be aware that water levels in tributaries, such as those in Chips Creek canyon, can be high in early summer after snowmelt.

The North Feather River Canyon itself offers stunning natural beauty and viewpoints. The Chips Creek canyon provides scenic vistas as the PCT winds through it. The area is also known for its natural swimming holes, some with waterslides and cliff jumping opportunities, offering a unique way to experience the natural landscape.

The best time to visit Belden for outdoor activities is generally from late spring to early autumn. During early summer, after the snowmelt, water levels in creeks and tributaries can be high, which might affect crossings like the Indian Creek Footbridge area. The warmer months are ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying the river, but always be prepared for varying conditions in a wilderness setting.

The wilderness locale of Belden, particularly in the Chips Creek canyon, is known for its diverse wildlife. Hikers often spot butterflies, especially attracted by the warmth of rocks in early summer. When visiting Rattlesnake Spring, it's wise to watch for snakes on and below the rocks, as the name suggests.

The primary hub for amenities in Belden is the Belden Town Resort and Lodge. It offers a restaurant, cabins for lodging, and campgrounds with RV hook-ups. There's also a small store at the resort, which is particularly useful for hikers needing to resupply. For more extensive options, you might need to venture further down the highway to places like Caribou Crossroads.

Belden is a crucial resupply stop for Pacific Crest Trail hikers. The Belden Town Resort offers a restaurant, store, and accommodation options like cabins, campgrounds, and RV hook-ups. The Eby Stamp Mill also serves as a trailhead, with a 'tree house' nearby that can be a great place for PCT hikers to spend the night. Be prepared for a gruelling descent and climb into and out of the Feather River valley.