A Whole Lot to Do
by Dean Growdon
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, this is one of those times of year when the calendar starts filling up fast. Archery season is in full swing, dove season opens September 1st, and the productive tributaries to Lake Almanor will close at the end of September.
For cyclists and runners, the Lassen Gravel Adventure Ride and the Bizz Johnson Marathon are also coming up quickly.
You know archery season has arrived when photos of bucks in full velvet start popping up across your social media feed. Pictures from Idaho Grocery and others show the kind of impressive bucks that still roam the hills in our area. Most of those deer were probably taken by hunters who spent long hours scouting, glassing ridges, learning patterns, and putting in the work before finally getting their chance.
Of course, every now and then, a lucky hunter stumbles across the deer of a lifetime. So, if you have an archery deer tag, now is the time to get out there and make the most of the final days of the season.
Dove season has always felt like the true kickoff to hunting season. When September 1st rolls around, locals start jockeying for a day off work so they can be in the field on opening morning. Dove can be humbling, though. With their darting, twisting flight and small size, they have a way of making even a confident shooter question everything.
If you plan to hunt dove this season, now is a good time to pull out the trusty shotgun, shake off the rust, and get in a little practice.
For fishermen, the tributaries to Lake Almanor are hard to beat when it comes to quality fish. The Hamilton Branch of the Feather River tends to draw the most attention, and on just about any day of the week, you can drive over the Hamilton Branch bridge and see vehicles packed into the parking areas and anglers lined along the shore.
The North Fork of the Feather River above Chester can also offer excellent fishing, especially for those willing to stretch their legs and cover some water. These opportunities will not last much longer, though. The tributaries close at the end of September, so get out there and enjoy them while the window is still open.
For those who enjoy cycling, the Lassen Gravel Adventure Ride comes to Susanville on September 12th. Riders can choose from 94-mile, 63-mile, 40-mile, and 14-mile routes. If you are an avid cyclist, pick your distance, sign up, and enjoy a beautiful ride through the countryside.
If you do not ride often, the 14-mile route is a treat. You ride the Bizz Johnson Trail from the railroad depot in Susanville to Devil’s Corral, enjoy a pancake breakfast, then cruise back to town. E-bikes are permitted, which makes the ride accessible to just about anyone who wants to join the fun.
The Bizz Johnson Marathon has been a staple in our area for decades, bringing runners from all over the United States to enjoy one of the most scenic courses around. This year’s event will be held on October 11th and will include a marathon, 50K, half marathon, and 10K. If you are a runner, there is still time to sign up, pick your distance, and get ready for race day.
One of the best things about living in Northeastern California is the incredible variety of outdoor opportunities waiting right outside our doors. Too often, we put off the things we enjoy and tell ourselves, “Maybe next year.” Don’t wait for next year. The season is here, the opportunities are right in front of us, and the time to make it happen is now.
