In Northern California’s Modoc Plateau, time seems to slow. Scattered across valleys and forests, these secluded towns quietly resist discovery—rooted in solitude and shaped by the land itself.
Here, life follows nature’s rhythm. The wind, the trees, and the silence speak louder than traffic ever could. For those seeking a retreat from the rush, these 25 hidden gems offer stillness, simplicity, and a deep breath of quiet.
Note: Some of the places listed here, like Juniper Creek and Sandhill, may not appear on most modern maps or may exist more as whispered landmarks than official towns. They reflect the forgotten corners, historic outposts, and poetic wilderness that give the Modoc Plateau its quiet soul. In these hidden spaces, geography blends with memory, and solitude stretches beyond the edges of the page.
25. Alturas: The Gateway to the High Desert
Alturas, a town of around 2,800 people, serves as the central hub of the Modoc Plateau. This town is known for its wide-open spaces and the vast wilderness surrounding it, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The community here thrives on agriculture, ranching, and the peaceful solitude that comes with such a remote location.
Life in Alturas is dictated by the rhythms of nature, with winters that blanket the area in snow and summers marked by clear skies and warm winds. Though small, Alturas has everything a person needs to feel at home, from local shops to a sense of community that’s hard to find in larger cities. Its peaceful environment is amplified by its distance from major urban centers.
While Alturas offers a taste of rural life, it also stands as a gateway to outdoor adventures. The Modoc National Forest and nearby wildlife areas attract visitors, but Alturas maintains its serene charm, unaffected by the usual tourist crowds.
Where is Alturas?
Alturas is located at the crossroads of State Route 299 and Highway 395, deep in the northeastern corner of California. Its isolation gives it a sense of tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The scenic drive through expansive high desert landscapes highlights its remoteness.
The town is easily accessible by car, yet the journey to Alturas involves traveling through open plains and rugged terrain, making it feel like a hidden gem in the Modoc Plateau.
24. Tulelake: A Historic Farming Town at the Border
Tulelake, with fewer than 1,000 residents, holds a place in history as a farming community at the northern tip of California. The town’s proximity to the Lava Beds National Monument gives it an air of both historical significance and natural beauty. Agriculture is the lifeblood here, with irrigation projects helping the region thrive despite the harsh conditions.
The town itself is quiet, with wide open spaces that make it feel more like a stop on a long journey than a destination. Its historical connections to the World War II Japanese internment camps at Tule Lake add a layer of solemn reflection to the area’s past. Despite this, it remains a peaceful and secluded town with plenty of natural beauty to explore.
Tulelake is one of those places where time seems to move slowly, and the surrounding farmland and mountains create a landscape both calming and humbling. It’s an oasis of quiet in an otherwise rugged region.
Where is Tulelake?
Tulelake is situated just north of the California-Oregon border, along Highway 139. The town’s position in the Tule Lake Basin is defined by vast fields and agricultural land, making it feel even more isolated.
To reach Tulelake, travelers pass through miles of flat farmland before entering the picturesque landscape of the Lava Beds National Monument, which emphasizes the town’s peaceful, tucked-away setting.
23. Day: A Quiet Bend in the Road
Day is a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of place nestled among pine groves and winding roads. This unincorporated community offers pure silence, where the only sounds are wind through the trees and the crunch of tires on gravel.
Surrounded by nature, Day is a retreat into another pace of life. The people who live here cherish simplicity, and visitors often find that time feels different in a place this still. The open skies and quiet trails offer peaceful days with no distractions.
This forgotten hamlet may not have shops or cafes, but it offers something much rarer: the kind of solitude that stays with you.
Where is Day?
Day sits along Day Road in northeastern Shasta County, just west of Modoc County. It’s a scenic drive northeast from Burney, through woodlands and meadows.
The town is tucked away from highways, and the slow winding approach is part of its appeal. Few travelers pass through, and those who do often feel like they’ve stumbled into another world.
22. Lake City: A Valley Town Lost in Time
Lake City is a small community that clings to the slopes of Surprise Valley like a forgotten postcard. Its collection of wooden homes and rustic barns whisper of a time when life moved slower.
Tucked between Cedarville and Fort Bidwell, Lake City remains quietly untouched. There are no bustling streets—just gravel paths, grazing horses, and the wide-open sky. It’s a place where residents know each sunrise by heart.
The peaceful aura of Lake City makes it more than a stopover—it’s a hidden piece of California’s rural soul.
Where is Lake City?
Located along County Road 1 in eastern Modoc County, Lake City is nestled in the northern part of Surprise Valley. It sits between Cedarville to the south and Fort Bidwell to the north.
Surrounded by open land and ranches, Lake City offers endless views of the Warner Mountains. The long stretches of valley surrounding it ensure it stays remote and peaceful.
21. Copic: A Speck Along the Tracks
Copic once bustled with life when the trains passed through regularly. Now, it’s just a scattering of homesteads and fences under a vast Modoc sky.
There’s no town center—only the ghost of one—but the community remains grounded in the land. With few residents and no businesses, Copic is a place where nature overtakes pavement and silence settles like dust.
It’s the perfect stop for those who long to hear nothing at all.
Where is Copic?
Copic is located in the southern section of Modoc County, along a former railway line between Likely and Madeline. It’s now little more than a name on a map.
The surrounding landscape is dry and expansive, and travelers rarely pass by unless they’re purposefully searching for the forgotten.
20. Vya (Nevada): A Desert Outpost with California Spirit
Though just across the border in Nevada, Vya shares the soul of the Modoc Plateau. It’s a whisper of a town, marked only by crumbling buildings and desert winds.
Surrounded by sagebrush and rock outcrops, Vya offers no services and few signs of life. Yet for those seeking profound stillness, it’s a treasure. There’s magic in its emptiness.
Vya’s remoteness speaks volumes—this is solitude, uninterrupted.
Where is Vya?
Vya is located just east of Surprise Valley, across the California-Nevada line in Washoe County. It’s reachable by gravel roads from Fort Bidwell or Cedarville.
Few maps even mark it clearly, and even fewer travelers pass through. It’s as close to the edge of the world as a road can take you.
19. Willow Ranch: Where Time Slows to a Whisper
Willow Ranch is the kind of place that doesn’t seek attention. Surrounded by open fields and quiet creeks, it’s more ranchland than town.
The stillness here feels endless. A few scattered homes, barns, and weathered fences hint at life lived slowly and steadily. For those who arrive, it’s not about things to do—but space to simply be.
The untouched land cradles the town like an old memory.
Where is Willow Ranch?
Willow Ranch is in the far northeastern corner of Modoc County, near the Oregon border. It’s northeast of Davis Creek, hidden away off County Road 2.
It sits quietly among high desert meadows and is surrounded by public lands, making it perfect for those drawn to open landscapes and quiet drives.
18. Ravendale: A Remote Outpost in Lassen County
Ravendale is spread thin across the flatlands, where windmills spin and dust dances across empty fields. There are more jackrabbits than people here.
With no town square or main street, Ravendale is more an idea than a place—yet its sense of solitude is real. It’s a corner of Lassen County where travelers rarely linger, and that’s exactly its charm.
The silence here is spacious, almost sacred.
Where is Ravendale?
Ravendale is located in northern Lassen County, along U.S. Route 395 between Madeline and Termo. It’s about 40 miles southeast of Alturas.
Sparse and wind-swept, this forgotten stretch of land draws those seeking true isolation and a sky unbroken by buildings.
17. Termo: A Railway Ghost Town with Western Roots
Termo was once a hub for freight lines and big plans—but today, only quiet remains. The rail tracks still run, but the buildings have faded to bones.
There are remnants of history in Termo’s dry winds and leaning fence posts. It’s a frontier story half-told, and still standing.
In Termo, solitude and sky stretch beyond the horizon.
Where is Termo?
Termo lies north of Ravendale along U.S. Route 395 in Lassen County. It’s a ghost of a town, hidden in the scrubland between Madeline and Likely.
The route here passes through remote grasslands and open desert, perfect for long drives and open thoughts.
16. Etsel: A Forgotten Hamlet Among the Pines
Etsel is a little-known community deep in the forested mountains of Mendocino National Forest, just south of Modoc’s borders. It sits silent, a ghost of logging camps and lost trails.
Surrounded by towering trees, Etsel offers no cell service, no traffic, no noise. Just moss, wind, and the memories of those who once carved a life here.
It’s the kind of place you stumble upon—and never forget.
Where is Etsel?
Etsel lies along forest roads in the northeast corner of Mendocino County, on the southwestern edge of the Modoc Plateau region. It’s hard to find—and that’s the point.
Accessible only by rough tracks through dense forest, Etsel is one of the most remote places in the region, perfect for those seeking wild seclusion.
15. Nubieber: A Sliver of Quiet Near the Pit River
Nubieber may only have a few homes and one main road, but its charm lies in its simplicity. Nestled by the Pit River, it’s a quiet stop where fishing lines outnumber people.
Locals know the rhythm of the seasons and the songs of birds better than any schedule. Nubieber is a retreat for those who love silence and the hum of the natural world.
It’s not flashy—but it’s real.
Where is Nubieber?
Nubieber is located in Lassen County, just west of Adin, along Highway 299. It sits near the Pit River, where the terrain begins to shift from high desert to forested foothills.
The journey to Nubieber winds through quiet valleys, grazing land, and timeless scenery that reminds travelers what it means to slow down.
14. Juniper Creek: A Forest Hollow Forgotten by Time
Tucked deep within the pines west of Adin, Juniper Creek is a name whispered by hunters, hikers, and those who map the wild. It’s not a town in the traditional sense—just a smattering of weathered cabins, an old post stump, and the rustle of forest life.
You won’t find stores or signs. Just fern-covered paths, a babbling creek after the spring thaw, and stars unobstructed by electric light. The silence here is not empty—it’s filled with the hush of trees, the scratch of deer through brush, and the creak of old timber.
Juniper Creek exists as a place you feel more than see, a quiet fold in the landscape for wanderers who want no roads—only roots.
Where is Juniper Creek?
Hidden in the folds of northeastern Lassen County, Juniper Creek lies west of Adin along unpaved roads that snake into the Modoc National Forest. There’s no direct marker—just a winding trail that disappears into the trees.
To reach it, you follow forest service roads past meadows and springs. Few know it by name, but those who find it rarely speak of it again—some sanctuaries are better kept secret.
13. Madeline: Remote Plains and Big Sky Solitude
Madeline, a nearly forgotten town on the Modoc Plateau, is home to fewer than 20 full-time residents. Once a stop on the Nevada–California–Oregon railway, it’s now a quiet dot on the map—surrounded by nothing but wide rangeland, endless skies, and the hum of the wind. Here, solitude isn’t just a possibility—it’s a promise.
The landscape is dry and open, framed by distant ridgelines and scattered sagebrush. There’s no town square or local café—just a scattering of ranches, the occasional windmill, and a profound silence that feels like it belongs to another era. For artists, wanderers, or those craving disconnection, Madeline offers a blank canvas of peace.
It may not be a typical destination, but that’s exactly its charm. Madeline isn’t trying to be anything—its quiet endurance is what makes it unforgettable.
Where is Madeline?
Madeline is located in northeastern Lassen County, just south of the Modoc County line. It sits along U.S. Route 395, between the towns of Ravendale and Likely. Its remote setting is surrounded by open range, grazing lands, and the occasional passing train.
Getting to Madeline means traveling through uninterrupted high desert terrain. Whether you’re coming from Alturas or Susanville, the road is long, straight, and beautifully empty—leading you to a place where the sky feels just a little bit bigger.
12. Newell: High-Desert Heart
Newell, with just over 300 residents at an elevation of 4,042 ft, stands amid the sagebrush steppe of Modoc County. This census‑designated place embodies the plateau’s high‑desert spirit—wide skies, volcanic soils, and a pace dictated by the wind across the plains.
Lined with grain silos and horseradish storage facilities, the town’s economy hinges on agriculture and ranching, while the nearby site of the Tule Lake War Relocation Center reminds visitors of the region’s complex history.
For those passing through, Newell offers unhurried charm: a handful of service stops, eternal skies, and a community rooted in California’s high‑desert frontier.
Where is Newell?
Newell sits right on State Route 139 in northern Modoc County, about 50 miles west‑northwest of Alturas and roughly 10 miles south of the Oregon border. It perches at 4,042 feet above sea level amid rolling sagebrush plains and farmland that once lay beneath ancient lakes.
The ribbon of State Route 139 threads through fields of grain silos and horseradish sheds, cutting a quiet path across ground that was once the bed of prehistoric waters. To the north, Tule Lake’s seasonal marshes shimmer against the rim of distant mountains, while to the south the land dries into salt‑crusted flats. Travelers arrive by this narrow corridor, leaving behind the bustle of Alturas and slipping into a landscape that has changed little in centuries.
11. Sandhill: A Wind-Swept Outpost Beyond the Tracks
On the edge of nowhere, between Madeline and Ravendale, Sandhill clings to the land like a ghost with dusty boots. There was a time when a train might’ve stopped here, when telegraph wires sang in the breeze—but now, there is only wind and silence.
The sky above Sandhill is impossibly wide, stretching over cracked earth, scattered fence posts, and the faint trace of wagon ruts long erased. A few ranches still stand, stoic and sun-bleached, with dogs that bark at no one in particular.
Sandhill is not a destination, but a memory you pass through—and carry with you long after you’re gone.
Where is Sandhill?
Sandhill lies along the abandoned rail corridors southwest of Madeline, in a forgotten crescent of northern Lassen County. It’s off any marked highway, accessible only by gravel paths that fade into desert.
To find it is to wander. There’s no sign, no service, no sound but your own footsteps. Just a name on an old map—and a silence that fills your chest.
10. New Pine Creek: Straddling the Border of Peace and Quiet
With a population of just over 100 residents, New Pine Creek is a tranquil lakeside community that offers a unique charm. Situated on the California-Oregon border, this small town is nestled along the shores of Goose Lake, providing ample opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the water. The main industries here revolve around agriculture and small-scale ranching, contributing to the town’s laid-back atmosphere. What makes New Pine Creek truly secluded is its remote location and the close-knit community that cherishes the quiet life away from crowded tourist spots.
Where is New Pine Creek?
Located at the northern tip of the Modoc Plateau, New Pine Creek sits right on the state line between California and Oregon. Its seclusion is heightened by the expansive natural surroundings and the limited routes leading into town. To get there, you can take Highway 395 north from Alturas, which winds through serene landscapes and brings you to this peaceful border town. The journey itself is a scenic drive that underscores the remoteness and beauty of the area.
9. Tionesta: A Quiet Outpost Near the Lava Beds
Tionesta is a tiny settlement with a population of fewer than 50 people, making it one of the most secluded spots on the Modoc Plateau. This quiet outpost is known for its proximity to the Lava Beds National Monument, where visitors can explore volcanic landscapes, lava tube caves, and rich historical sites tied to the Modoc War. The primary way of life here revolves around ranching and the appreciation of the rugged terrain that defines the region. Tionesta’s isolation comes from its sparse population and the vast open spaces that surround it, offering a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Where is Tionesta?
Tionesta is located in the northeastern part of California, near the border with Oregon. It’s tucked away off State Route 139, which adds to its sense of remoteness. The town is nestled amidst high desert plains and volcanic features, making it feel worlds away from urban centers. Accessing Tionesta involves a drive through expansive landscapes that highlight the area’s tranquility and seclusion.
8. Eagleville: Rustic Charm at the Foot of the Warner Mountains
Eagleville is a quaint community of around 50 residents, offering rustic charm and a peaceful lifestyle. Set against the backdrop of the Warner Mountains, this town provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying the unspoiled natural surroundings. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and ranching, contributing to its authentic rural character. Eagleville’s seclusion is evident in its remote location and the untouched beauty that envelops the area, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solace away from busy city life.
Where is Eagleville?
Situated in Surprise Valley on the eastern side of the Warner Mountains, Eagleville is accessible via County Road 1 from Cedarville. Its secluded position is enhanced by the rugged mountain terrain and the expansive valley that stretches out before it. The journey to Eagleville involves traversing scenic byways that underscore the remoteness and allure of this hidden gem on the Modoc Plateau.
7. Lookout: A Peaceful Village Amidst Forested Hills
Home to approximately 80 residents, Lookout is a peaceful village surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. The town offers a serene environment where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like fishing in nearby rivers, hiking through wooded trails, and experiencing the tranquility of nature. Forestry and agriculture serve as the main industries, reflecting the community’s close relationship with the land. Lookout’s seclusion stems from its location amid dense forests and the quiet that comes from being off the beaten path.
Where is Lookout?
Lookout is located in Modoc County, northeast of Lassen National Forest. It’s accessible via State Route 299, followed by a turn onto smaller county roads that lead into the heart of the village. The town’s remote setting is accentuated by the surrounding forests and minimal traffic, making it a haven for those who appreciate solitude and natural beauty. Getting to Lookout involves a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes that emphasize its secluded nature.
6. Davis Creek: Gateway to Wilderness with Unspoiled Vistas
Davis Creek is a small community of about 70 people, known for its proximity to pristine wilderness areas and breathtaking vistas. Outdoor activities abound here, including exploring the nearby Modoc National Forest, hiking, and wildlife watching. The town’s economy is centered around ranching and small-scale agriculture, reflecting a lifestyle deeply connected to the land. Davis Creek’s seclusion is highlighted by its remote location and the unspoiled nature that surrounds it, offering residents and visitors alike a peaceful retreat.
Where is Davis Creek?
Situated along Highway 395, north of Alturas, Davis Creek lies near the Oregon border. The town’s placement at the edge of vast wilderness areas contributes to its sense of isolation. Accessing Davis Creek involves traveling through expansive high desert plains and forested regions that showcase the solitude of the Modoc Plateau. Its remote location makes it an ideal gateway for those looking to delve into the untouched landscapes of northeastern California.
5. Adin: A Quiet Hamlet Surrounded by Nature’s Splendor
Adin is a small hamlet with a population of around 280 residents, offering a peaceful setting amid stunning natural surroundings. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and lush meadows, providing ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Agriculture and ranching are the mainstays of the local economy, reinforcing its rural charm. Adin’s seclusion is defined by its distance from major cities and the tranquil environment that comes from being nestled in a picturesque valley.
Where is Adin?
Located at the junction of State Routes 139 and 299, Adin serves as a quiet crossroads in Modoc County. Its secluded nature is amplified by the surrounding landscapes of forests and open fields. The town is accessible yet remains off the main tourist routes, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. Traveling to Adin involves a scenic drive through diverse terrains that highlight the area’s natural beauty and serenity.
4. Canby: Where Rolling Hills Meet Quiet Country Living
Canby is a rural community of approximately 300 people, characterized by its rolling hills and quiet country lifestyle. Residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and exploring the gentle landscapes that define the area. The local economy is driven by agriculture, with many farms and ranches dotting the countryside. Canby’s seclusion is a result of its small population and the expansive agricultural lands that separate it from larger towns, offering a peaceful retreat into country living.
Where is Canby?
Situated along State Route 299, east of Adin, Canby is nestled in the heart of Modoc County. The town’s remote location is accentuated by the vast stretches of farmland and the sparse population density of the region. To reach Canby, travelers embark on a journey through scenic rural roads that underscore the tranquility and remoteness of the area. The peaceful drive to Canby sets the tone for the secluded experience awaiting visitors.
3. Likely: An Oasis of Tranquility Amidst Expansive Ranchlands
Likely is a small town with just over 60 residents, offering an oasis of tranquility amid expansive ranchlands. The town provides access to outdoor activities such as golfing at the nearby Likely Place Golf & RV Resort, fishing in local streams, and hiking through unspoiled landscapes. Ranching and agriculture are the primary industries, contributing to the town’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Likely’s seclusion comes from its intimate community size and its setting amid vast open spaces, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and quiet.
Where is Likely?
Located along Highway 395, south of Alturas, Likely sits in a tranquil part of the Modoc Plateau. The town’s remoteness is emphasized by the surrounding ranchlands and the minimal traffic that passes through. Getting to Likely involves a scenic drive through rolling hills and wide-open valleys that highlight the serene nature of the journey. The town’s location makes it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of rural life.
2. Fort Bidwell: Historic Frontier Living Off the Beaten Path
Fort Bidwell is a historic community with a population of around 170 people, offering a glimpse into frontier life. The town is rich in history, with the old Fort Bidwell military post serving as a testament to its past. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Warner Mountains, fish in local streams, and enjoy the abundance of wildlife. The main industries revolve around ranching and agriculture, reflecting a lifestyle that honors tradition. Fort Bidwell’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the preserved historic sites that make it feel like a step back in time.
Where is Fort Bidwell?
Situated at the north end of Surprise Valley, close to the Oregon-Nevada border, Fort Bidwell is tucked away in a remote corner of California. The town is accessible via County Road 1, which winds through stunning landscapes and emphasizes its off-the-beaten-path location. The surrounding mountains and valleys contribute to its isolation, making it a peaceful destination for those interested in history and natural beauty. The journey to Fort Bidwell underscores the seclusion and charm that define this historic community.
1. Cedarville: A Hidden Gem Nestled in the Heart of Surprise Valley
Cedarville is a charming town of about 500 residents, nestled in the heart of Surprise Valley. Known for its quiet streets and rustic charm, the town offers a variety of activities such as exploring local hot springs, visiting art galleries, and enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding mountains. Agriculture and ranching are central to the local economy, fostering a strong sense of community. Cedarville’s seclusion is marked by its location in a remote valley and the serene atmosphere that pervades the town, making it a perfect hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Where is Cedarville?
Located east of Alturas along State Route 299, Cedarville is nestled at the base of the Warner Mountains in Surprise Valley. The town’s secluded setting is heightened by the vast expanses of high desert and the minimal development in the area. To reach Cedarville, travelers journey through picturesque valleys and mountain passes that showcase the natural beauty of the Modoc Plateau. The town’s remote location ensures a tranquil environment, away from the noise and stress of urban life.
