Drakesbad Guest Ranch – Chester, CA

Tucked away in the heart of the Warner Valley in Northern California, Drakesbad Guest Ranch is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A place to reset and reconnect with nature, the ranch offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave visitors with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the outdoors.

From horseback riding to hiking, fishing, and exploring the nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park, the ranch has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or simply a chance to relax and unplug, Drakesbad Guest Ranch has something for everyone. Let us guide you through a complete experience of the wonders of Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Chester, California.

History

In the 1880s, the very first structure to be constructed on the Drakesbad Guest Ranch was erected by Edward R. Drake, a local miner and trapper. Drake finally sold his property to Alexander Sifford by 1900. The new owner’s initial trip to the area was motivated by his hunt for mineral water, which he hoped would calm his anxiety. They built a guest ranch together with the help of his wife, Ida, and expanded the facilities that had been supplied by the previous owner.

The family continued to make repairs to the ranch and its surroundings after a snowstorm destroyed much of their belongings. These repairs included the construction of a kitchen, dining room, and twenty tent sites. By the year 1936, there were already four cottages and a fishing pond at that location.

After some time, Don Hummel and the National Park Service purchased the ranch from the Siffords, who then discontinued their involvement with it. Up until the year 1958, the Sifford family played a significant role in ensuring the smooth operation of the ranch.

Hot Springs Pool

The hot springs pool at the ranch, which is known as Drake’s Bath, is a major reason why people come to visit. Since their discovery more than a century and a half ago, the valley’s hot mineral springs have drawn a steady stream of visitors. Water from a nearby creek was diverted through a hollow piece of wood and into a “tub” in order for the Sifford family to establish the world’s first swimming pool in the year 1902.

A hill that is just on the opposite side of Hot Springs Creek is home to a number of steamy hot springs that reach temperatures of up to 140 ℉. The mineral water is allowed to cool naturally, and then it is pumped into a pool. During the day, the water is cooled to prevent swimmers from being overheated, but after the sun goes down, the pool transforms into a giant hot tub where people may rest.

The pool is maintained at a pleasant temperature of 96 ℉ during the day and 103 ℉ during the night thanks to a temperature control system. A very little amount of chlorine is added to the water as a treatment.

Activities Available at the Ranch

Drakesbad Guest Ranch has a wide variety of activities for guests to enjoy. There are many options for those who want to get out and explore the area, including fishing, hiking, and exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park. For those who prefer to stay closer to the ranch, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the ranch itself.

Horseback riding is a popular activity due to the wide selection of trails available and the stunning views from above the tree line. The ranch also has a beautiful golf course with views of the nearby mountains and an indoor tennis court for those who bring their own equipment.

If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, there are also a number of adventure activities available, including horse archery, a zipline, and a high ropes course. With options to suit everyone, there is sure to be something that catches your eye at Drakesbad Guest Ranch.

Horseback Riding

On the list of things to do at Drakesbad Guest Ranch, horseback riding is one of the most popular activities amongst visitors. The ranch has a wide selection of trails that are suited to all levels, allowing visitors to choose their preferred level of difficulty.

In addition to the trails on the ranch, there is also the option to explore Lassen Volcanic National Park by horseback. There are several trails in the park that are open to equestrian use, so you can enjoy the park while experiencing the unique experience of horseback riding.

Hiking

Hikers will love the trails at Drakesbad Guest Ranch, with a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult. The Bucksaw Trail is one of the most well-known trails at the ranch and leads you to a beautiful waterfall. The Sawtooth Trail is a relatively easy trail that is great for a day hike.

The ranch also has trails that are open to equestrian use, allowing visitors to explore the park by foot and horseback. These trails offer unparalleled views of the park, including the lava flows and nearby lakes. They also border the Pacific Crest Trail, which is a 2,650-mile trail that stretches from the Mexican to the Canadian border. This trail is open to hiking and equestrian use, allowing visitors to experience a true wilderness atmosphere.

Fishing

One of the many things to do at Drakesbad Guest Ranch is fishing. There is a stocked pond on the ranch that is open to fishing, so you can enjoy the views while reeling in a few fish. The pond is stocked with trout and is open to both guests of the ranch and the general public. The pond is a great place to take kids, as there is no need for a license and it is stocked with trout that are perfect for beginners.

Fishing can be enjoyed year-round at the pond. The ranch also has a stocked lake that is open to fishing. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and is open to the public. This lake is also stocked with largemouth bass, which makes it a great choice for experienced anglers. The lake is open year-round and has a general daily catch limit of five trout and five bass per person.

Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a short drive from Drakesbad Guest Ranch, allowing visitors to easily experience the wonders of this nearby attraction. The park is open all year round and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and explore nature.

There are a number of trails available for visitors to follow, including the General Creek Trail, Lassen Peak Trail, and the Red Cone Trail. Lassen Peak is the highest point in the park and has a trail leading to its summit. This trail is a moderate difficulty trail that is five miles long and takes around five hours to complete.

The views from the summit are spectacular, making the hike well worth it. The park also has a number of areas where you can enjoy a picnic and a chance to relax and unwind. These areas include the Bumpass Hell, Manzanita Lake, and the Loomis Basin.

In addition, there is a campground known as Warner Valley Campground, as well as camping cabins known as Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins.

Accommodation Options

Drakesbad Guest Ranch offers a wide variety of options when it comes to accommodation. Along with the standard cabins, there are also luxury cabins available for those looking for a more upscale experience. The cabins vary in size and have different amenities, from outdoor hot tubs to fireplaces and full kitchens. There are also bunkhouses available for larger groups and families.

There are also a number of options for those looking for shorter stays, including weekend and midweek stays. The ranch is open year round, so regardless of the time of year you are visiting, there is sure to be a room type that will meet your needs.

The ranch also has a special package for families looking to spend some quality time together. The package includes accommodations for the family and access to the ranch’s activities, including horseback riding and the zipline.

Dining Options

Drakesbad Guest Ranch offers a wide variety of dining options. For those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their cabin, there is a kitchenette available in each room that allows guests to prepare simple meals. There is also a dining hall available for those looking to dine with other guests. There are also two restaurants on the ranch that offer a wide variety of options.

The Oasis Café is a casual dining option that offers starters, salads, sandwiches, and desserts. The Café also has a kids menu for those dining with little ones. The Ranch House is the more upscale option and features a seasonal menu that changes with the harvest. The menu features a variety of options, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, and is sure to have something for everyone.

Special Events

There are a variety of special events taking place at Drakesbad Guest Ranch throughout the year. The ranch hosts a winter berry festival in December and a spring festival in May, both of which bring together guests and local vendors to celebrate the harvest.

Other events include equestrian competitions, where guests can see talented cowboys in action and cheer them on. The ranch also hosts special horse races, where you can cheer on your favorite horse and win some great prizes. There is always something happening at the ranch, making it the perfect place to celebrate special occasions and mark memorable experiences.

Local Attractions

Drakesbad Guest Ranch is located in close proximity to a number of nearby attractions, including the Lassen Volcanic National Park. The park is a short drive away and is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Northern California.

There are also a number of nearby wineries, allowing visitors to experience the local vineyards. There are a variety of options, including Red Rooster Winery, a family-owned vineyard that offers a unique and memorable experience. These attractions are great places to explore while at Drakesbad Guest Ranch and make for great day trips during your visit.

Bottom line

During your visit to Drakesbad Guest Ranch, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the ranch is open year round, so regardless of the season, make sure to pack appropriately. Drakesbad is located in the heart of nature, so it is important to be mindful of your surroundings and protect yourself from bugs and pests.

Drakesbad Guest Ranch is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The ranch offers a unique and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave visitors with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the outdoors. With a wide variety of activities, stunning views, and nearby attractions, there is something for everyone at Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Chester, California.

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Local information

Address: 14423 Chester Warner Valley Rd, Chester, California 96020
GPS: 40.444189,-121.403835
Phone: 530-230-3901 or (877) 622-0221
Season: June through October
Website: lassenlodging.com/drakesbad

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