Only a little over an hour’s drive from Lake Tahoe, the Yuba River Inn and the charming town of Sierra City provide a serene alternative to busy tourist destinations while remaining within easy reach of the lake and several major cities.

Situated at an elevation of 4,147 feet, the inn is well-known for its breathtaking landscapes, comfortable log cabins, and outdoor adventure options. For those seeking a more private experience as a respite from California’s overcrowded national parks and tourist spots, the inn is an ideal destination, offering the perfect blend of options for relaxation and exploration.

While Lake Tahoe's vibrant atmosphere and year-round recreational activities are just a short drive away, the inn and Sierra City offer a more intimate and secluded experience, where guests can enjoy the best of both worlds — exploring all Lake Tahoe has to offer and returning afterwards to the tranquility of the inn's mountain retreat. On a warm summer day, when cars are lined up for miles trying to find a parking space near Lake Tahoe, only 90 minutes away you’ll find half-empty parking lots at the Lakes Basin, the Sierra Buttes, and along the North Yuba River, with uncrowded trails to pristine lakes, hidden waterfalls, and scenic vistas where you can hike for hours and not even see another hiker.

For those traveling to the inn from the Bay Area, the journey to Sierra City is a scenic drive through the mountains, taking approximately 3.5 to 4 hours for a journey that's as memorable as the destination itself.

For those flying in, the Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the most convenient gateway to Sierra City. The airport is approximately 70 miles to the northeast, offering a scenic drive of about 90 minutes. Guests departing from Reno can follow I-80 West, passing through the historic town of Truckee and continuing along the scenic mountain roads that lead to Sierra City.

Once you arrive in Sierra City, you’ll be surrounded by natural wonders, including the North Yuba River, renowned for its fishing and scenic beauty, as well as expansive meadows, lush forests, and panoramic views, all waiting to be explored.

The Yuba River Inn invites you to experience the beauty, tranquility, and outdoor adventures off the beaten path that define this untouched hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada mountains, and all at a fraction of the cost of staying in the other busy and overcrowded mountain regions.