Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Big Boulder Adventures

    5.0 (1 review)
    Closed Closed

    Big Boulder Adventures Photos

    You might also consider

    More like Big Boulder Adventures

    Recommended Reviews - Big Boulder Adventures

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    Get access to customer & competitor insights.

    Verify this business

    Downieville Outfitters - The Levo gang just below the Buttes lookout

    Downieville Outfitters

    4.2(58 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    Great for a shuttle service. Always dependable. Great personality on all staff (as far as I'm…read moreconcerned). Will use again and again and have before. A+

    This review is for the shuttle service. Your bike will be damaged due to poor equipment and…read morehandling by the obese bully who does not know how to be professional. There was no reason for his poor behavior and carelessness whatsoever. We were friendly and paid for shuttle service and even paid for bike maintenance. Why be rude and disrespectful to paying customers?? During the loading process I saw that another bike's brake reservoir was very close to my bike. About 1-2 centimeters. I wanted to avoid potential damage to the brake and my carbon frame, so I simply suggested an easy solution to create more space. This quickly angered the employee and he rudely snapped at me, "you're afraid of your bike being scratched dude, you're gonna crash..." What? This created an awkward group vibe since others in were a shocked by what he said. The ride up in the van was quiet and uncomfortable since the person loading the bike was driving and complaining the whole way up about his life and how Downieville is dying. This didn't set a good energy for the ride at all, and set a negative tone the rest of the weekend. I wanted to protect my bike bc any damage would not have been covered by this employee. A cracked frame or broken calipers would have been terrible and very expensive to fix. In the end my fork crown did get deeply gouged in several places bc the bike hooks they use are worn and covered in electrical tape. If you want your bike to be cared for and not be damaged, go elsewhere. If you want professional service go elsewhere. This shop has a staff member with a really poor attitude that ruins it for the entire shop. What a disappointment.

    Photos
    Downieville Outfitters - The hat travels far

    The hat travels far

    Downieville Outfitters - Me chillin on the way up to the Buttes lookout.

    Me chillin on the way up to the Buttes lookout.

    Downieville Outfitters - FISKYS

    See all

    FISKYS

    Sierra Buttes - Beautiful weather.

    Sierra Buttes

    4.8(17 reviews)
    9.0 mi

    .....I definitely underestimated the hike, lol…read more The hike to the fire lookout is about 2.5 miles one way, BUT the incline throughout most of the trail makes the hike a bit of a calves-burner. I'm not a seasoned hiker and I had to take multiple breaks, so much that I took like a 2 min break at each switcheroo point on the switchbacks right before the fire lookout lol (yeah there's even a set of unfriendly switchbacks here on top of the steady incline, hooray). Took me about 2 hours to arrive at the lookout lol but man oh man are the views gorgeous up there. I went on a windy day and I still felt safe climbing the stairs up to the actual lookout; the whole structure is pretty sturdy. Overall I would classify this hike as moderate-hard for people who don't hike often. Wouldn't say that this hike is very dangerous; just wear good shoes as there is a lot of loose gravel on the switchbacks and a couple of times I slipped when going back down towards the parking area. Would I ever do this hike again? Eh, to be honest probably not lol not because the hike itself but because of the long winding highway getting here. Very pretty trees throughout the 49 highway especially during autumn, but 1.5+ hours of driving on this highway (drove through Auburn) was a little too much for me. I definitely don't regret doing this whole adventure though. Google Maps "Sierra Buttes Trailhead" and the directions shown will lead you straight to the parking area/hiking trail entrance.

    This hike is unreal. I went 10/13/19. Weather was really…read morewarm. Definitely was comfortable in a short sleeve. I had my dog with me and we were off! It wasn't too crowded. I probably saw 20 people throughout the whole hike. Almost all had dogs so it was very dog friendly! Many had dogs off leash so be prepared for that. I've seen some bad reviews online about mountain bikers but I didn't see very many and the ones I did were really polite and moved right out of the way. Towards the top it got chilly and very windy so make sure to bring some layers if you plan on going up. There are stairs that are extremely steep at the end, but honestly If you don't go up them then there's no real reason to do this hike. The stairs are necessary. My dog was too scared to go up them so I did have to carry him. Once at the top, the views are BREATHTAKING. So incredibly beautiful. Definitely worth the steep incline and quad burning it takes to get there. Whole hike took me about 3 or 4 hours. It was amazing and I highly recommend. I would rate it as hard however, due to the steep incline and loose gravel. You definitely need to be careful and wear good shoes. I fell twice on my way down and that was not fun.

    Photos
    Sierra Buttes - The last few steps over some rocks

    The last few steps over some rocks

    Sierra Buttes - Ollie ready for his hike

    Ollie ready for his hike

    Sierra Buttes - Ollie tired at the top

    See all

    Ollie tired at the top

    Lake Almanor Recreation Trail - Map of the trail

    Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

    5.0(2 reviews)
    44.2 mi

    This is a great trail to see both the lake and forest. It is great for everyone since it is paved…read moreand flat. We came here after it had rained and this was perfect. There are numerous places to access this 19 mile trail. The photos that I have included show these. We caught it at the north trail head that starts near the intersection of 89 and Humbug Humboldt Cross Road. It starts about 30 feet towards the lake after the asphalt roads turns to dirt. There is parking for several cars. I was doubting if this trail actually existed as I s could not see it on satellite photos from Google maps. But it turns out that the trail is 90%+ covered in pine needles, which accounts for this (one of the pictures I posted shows the trail with no sign of the pavement). There are some blue diamond-shaped trail markers to help you along the way, but they are too infrequent to be used reliably. But it is not too hard to follow the pavement if you pay attention. Here is a link with more info. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lassen/recarea/?recid=11327

    This is my favorite bike trail ever. I've been riding it for about 10 years or so, and they've…read moreadded another mile or so taking it all the way to the dam end of the lake. You wind your way in and out of lake coves, campgrounds, through forest filled with huge ponderosa pines. We usually ride single track, but this paved trail is just plain fun, and any level of rider can enjoy it, some flat sections, some small hills that are a bit of a challenge, some fun downhills and sharp turns. For us flat-landers, the smell of the pines is just heady! The views of Lake Almanor are amazing, and then you'll round a turn and majestic Mount Lassen comes into view. There are benches, bike racks and story boards throughout the route. Wear you bathing suit so you can jump in the lake on a hot day. There are two restaurants right off the route in Prattvillle, Carol's Cafe and Plumas Pines Resort lakeside. There are bathrooms at the free day use parks, not much more one could ask for! There are some dirt trails mountain bikers can veer off on. This is a great accessible trail for wheelchairs. There are also horse trails weaving through the forest. Also great for walkers, hikers, strollers. We have never passed more than 6-12 people on the trail, it's off the beaten path, just do it!

    Photos
    Lake Almanor Recreation Trail - A view of the trail. Can't see the asphalt trail?  It is there, but covered in pine needles.

    A view of the trail. Can't see the asphalt trail? It is there, but covered in pine needles.

    Lake Almanor Recreation Trail - Nathan my 4 year old sun, and the fire pit we got fiercely yelled and raged at by an old lunatic that's a host at Rocky point Campground.

    Nathan my 4 year old sun, and the fire pit we got fiercely yelled and raged at by an old lunatic that's a host at Rocky point Campground.

    Lake Almanor Recreation Trail - Overview of Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

    See all

    Overview of Lake Almanor Recreation Trail

    Independence Lake Preserve

    Independence Lake Preserve

    5.0(4 reviews)
    29.6 mi

    Independence Lake is a beautiful glacier-cut lake located less than an hour's drive from Truckee…read more Here, you can borrow one of the small fleet of kayaks and fishing boats ~after first filling out a registration waiver~. No outside watercraft are allowed! This is to protect and preserve the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout that are native to this habitat. Outside watercraft are risky because they may unknowingly transport foreign mollusks that are detrimental to the health of the trout living there. If fishing waders are used, there is a wader scrubbing/washing station located at the registration area. There are Nature Conservancy staff people on site if you have further questions. I found them informative and helpful. The loaner kayaks are located to the left side of the lake. The ones on the right side are for staff members. Every other week, ~only~ the kayaks are allowed out. Call to check the calendar schedule to avoid disappointment if you want to use one of the motorized boats. They require a motorized boater's card {available online at https://www.boat-ed.com/california/) There are single person and tandem person sit-on-top kayaks available. after 8AM Thursdays through Sundays. Loaner PFDs are also available in standard sizes. I recommend getting there early morning after opening while the water is calm. I was told that later in the day, the wind can pick up. This makes paddling a kayak to get backk across a lot more difficult. You may fish using barbless hooks. Only artificial lures are permitted. All trout caught must be released. Kokanee salmon are an invasive species here. Fishermen are allowed to keep those. Limit 5 per day, or 10 per trip, total. No live bait. There is no overnight camping on the Conservancy's grounds. There are campgrounds at nearby Webber Lake and Lake of the Woods.

    Independence Lake Preserve is an amazing place to enjoy the high Sierras. The best part is the free…read morekayaks that are available to anyone who signs a waiver. How cool and inclusive is that? You get to Independence Lake Preserve from highway 80 by heading north on 89 and then turning L at the "Little Truckee Summit OHV/Snowmobile" area, which is on a road labeled "07." It's the turn you'd take if you wanted to go to the Mt. Lola trailhead or Webber Lake Campground, which are also nearby. You'll need an offroad capable vehicle to make it over a water crossing and two miles of rocky road. There are lots of signs that explain that no watercraft are allowed, because Independence Lake is one of the two places in the world with a wild, self-sustaining lake population of Lahontan cutthroat trout. That's why they care so much about not letting folks put their own watercraft on the lake: they might unintentionally introduce invasive species. When we pulled up (with a canoe on our Jeep: we didn't know the rules beforehand), a ranger came out to verbally explain things to us and to let us know about the free kayaks to use. I was pleasantly surprised that there were not a lot of bugs out in July 2022. The last time we were in this area, which was maybe July three years ago, there were so, so, so many bugs. We came armed with bug spray but didn't need it! There are hiking trails around the preserve as well. The lake is large and beautiful, and the view of Mt. Lola is spectacular.

    Photos
    Independence Lake Preserve - Trees

    Trees

    Independence Lake Preserve
    Independence Lake Preserve - Trail

    See all

    Trail

    Salmon Falls Mountain Bike Trail - Beginning of Sweetwater Trail

    Salmon Falls Mountain Bike Trail

    4.5(15 reviews)
    57.1 mi

    *SWEETWATER TRAIL*Came up here around 8am on a Sunday and there were only 2 cars in the parking…read morelot...by time we left it was still only less than half full. I've never been here so here's a heads up for those that are new. Every time I googled the pin would drop on Salmon Falls Rd. So I looked up Salmon Falls Bridge and zoomed in. There is a sharp left turn right before you get to the bridge itself. This turn will take you up to two parking lots, both with their own bathroom (four stalls total). There's also a boat ramp but this area is shallow. The trail starts at the lot to the left as you enter. The pathway is not too narrow but in some areas it is and it's used for both walking/biking and there is POISON OAK everywhere. I suggest wearing long socks/pants. If you do wear shorts be cautious! There are plenty of trails that lead off to the right and take you down toward the lake. My boys and I packed up our coolers and spent some time down there for lunch. When we went it was beautiful and sunny with just a light breeze. This is a nice trail to get in a good walk/run. We will definitely be back as it's beautiful up here...enjoy!!

    This review is specifically about Darrington trail that leads to Salmon Falls trail. It is a tiny…read moreparking area past the Salmon Falls entrance, over the small bridge. Get there early for parking and make sure to always lock your car and leaving nothing visible. This trail is known for break-ins. I come here once a week for trail running. It is always so peaceful and quiet. The trail begins with a short and easy incline to get the heart rate started. It is very popular with bikers so be mindful of them and try to keep on one side. Some of them are great about using the bells to alert hikers but not all. Luckily I have my bear bell hanging from my bag as well that helps for the same reason. It is usually pretty empty early mornings when I typically arrive and even by 10am it is not to bad. Be aware that it does get fairly warm because there is not much shade. It is more of a creek than a lake but at times it does get more full, usually at the end of Spring. I have spotted a couple of bobcat cubs so keep an out for wildlife. Overall my fav close spot to hike or run. The walk back in the mornings is best for pics. Enjoy and please keep it clean and safe!

    Photos
    Salmon Falls Mountain Bike Trail
    Salmon Falls Mountain Bike Trail
    Salmon Falls Mountain Bike Trail - Parking lot

    See all

    Parking lot

    Feather Falls Trail - Collage of sights along the trail

    Feather Falls Trail

    4.6(55 reviews)
    25.0 mi

    This hike was a blessing and a curse combined; stunningly beautiful views and an amazing waterfall…read moremixed with treacherous inclines, a mass amount of poison oak, and very aggressive bugs. I hiked this trail with my group in early June, and needless to say, this was one of the most beautiful and also one of the most challenging hikes that I've done. The entire loop measures about 8 miles, but you should add another mile if you plan to hike to the top of the falls. We started on the Upper Trail which is about 4.5 miles long. We took this trail to the top of the falls, then to the falls Overlook, and then to the Lower Falls trail which looped us back to the beginning of the trailhead. But be forewarned; if you take the Lower Falls trail back, the hike is very strenuous and not very well maintained. Right from the gate, you can see that this trail was filled with tons and tons of poison oak. If you don't know what poison oak looks like, you should look it up before you decide to come here. It's a beautiful plant, but you definitely don't want it touching you. And trust me, it's everywhere. All over the trails! I would recommend that you wear long pants and sleeves, especially if you're allergic. Also, there are tons of bugs! Lots of mosquitos and even ticks. Spray yourself with bug spray before you hit the trail. We sprayed and we still got bitten up pretty badly. Luckily, I didn't find any ticks on myself though. We also spotted a rattlesnake on the trail and you should also note that there have been bear sightings in the past. Just be aware of your surroundings. Okay, so now that I've gotten the scary stuff out of the way, let's focus on the actual hike. The hike through the Upper Trail is really pretty! It starts out flat and inclines gradually. It's full of greenery and mostly shaded. You'll pass over a small bridge that overlooks a baby waterfall that flows into a beautiful creek. There are ferns and flowers all throughout the trail. You'll see giant ants crawling on the ground. You'll also get a wonderful view of Bald Rock Dome which looks likes a mini Half Dome (Yosemite), and a sweeping view of the Middle Fork Feather River. The Overlook point to Feather Falls will be down some stairs and to the left. There are signs that will help to guide you. The view of Feather Falls is just simply breathtaking! The images are stunning but even they can't do it justice. You will truly have to just experience it for yourself. If you're up for some fun, I would highly recommend hiking to the top of the falls. It's seriously unbelievable up there. Storybook views, crystal clear water, and vivid greenery. It'll make you feel like you just walked into an enchanted forest. Like, is this really real? On the way back from the falls, we took the Lower Falls Trail back. This trail is a mile shorter than the Upper Falls Trail, but 10 times more strenuous. If you're looking for a less strenuous hike, either take the Lower to Upper Trail Loop or take the Upper Falls Trail there and back. Otherwise, you'll be in for a steep climb. Not only is this trail all uphill until the very end, it's also not well maintained. It's super rocky with lots of trees blocking the trail that you'll have to climb under and over. Parts of the trail are narrow and slippery. You should also make sure that you bring waaay more water than you think that you'll need because you WILL need it. After 9 miles of hiking, we were tired but felt extremely accomplished. The restrooms aren't the cleanest and the parking lot is pretty small, so I'd advise that you get there early. Would I do this hike again? Definitely! I would just take a different route and bring a stronger bug repellent. In the end, this hike is worth it for the views of one of the tallest waterfalls in California.

    First off, if you cannot have the decency to carry out your trash, don't hike…read more People leave trash EVERYWHERE on this trail. Literally, the most trash I've ever seen on a trail. People were leaving trash within hours of places we passed earlier. Unbelievable. Snack wrapper, water bottles and I even saw a dirty diaper. WTF?! Falls are awesome. Totally blew passed the turn for the loop on the way down so it was more of an out and back for us. Approximately 3.41 miles to the falls. Didn't have a problem with bugs but bring bug spray.

    Photos
    Feather Falls Trail
    Feather Falls Trail - You can watch our hike to Feather Fall YouTube video here - Go to link: https://youtu.be/LPyNEkOa6Wo

    You can watch our hike to Feather Fall YouTube video here - Go to link: https://youtu.be/LPyNEkOa6Wo

    Feather Falls Trail

    See all

    Big Boulder Adventures - mountainbiking - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...