Cities and Towns in Sierra County, California
Founded in 1852, Sierra County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Sierra County was formed from Yuba. The city of Downieville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 91, Sierra County has a population of 3,283 and area of 953 square miles (2,468 km²).
List of all cities in Sierra County, CA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alleghany, CA | 95910 | 530 |
| Bassetts, CA | 96125 | 530 |
| Calpine, CA | 96124 | 530 |
| Downieville, CA | 95936 | 530 |
| Forest City, CA | 95910 | 530 |
| Goodyears Bar, CA | 95944 | 530 |
| Loyalton, CA | 96118 | 530 |
| Sattley, CA | 96124 | 530 |
| Sierra City, CA | 96125 | 530 |
| Sierraville, CA | 96126 | 530 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sierra County, California
Downieville
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 3.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 95936
- Latitude: 39.5599° N
- Longitude: 120.8272° W
City Location and History
Downieville, the county seat of Sierra County, is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, along the banks of the North Yuba River. Founded in 1849 during the California Gold Rush, Downieville quickly became one of the most prominent mining towns in the region. Named after Major William Downie, a Scottish prospector who led the first miners into the area, the town once boasted a population of several thousand people at the height of the gold rush. Downieville was briefly considered for the state capital due to its significance during this period. However, as the gold deposits were exhausted, the population dwindled, and the town became a quiet, picturesque community. Today, Downieville is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly mountain biking and fishing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Downieville is served by the Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified School District, with Downieville School being the primary educational institution, offering K-12 education in a small, close-knit environment. The town’s landmarks include the Downieville Museum, housed in a former 19th-century stone building that showcases artifacts from the gold rush era and the town’s history. Another notable site is the historic Downieville Courthouse, built in 1852, which remains the oldest courthouse in continuous use in California. The surrounding area offers numerous outdoor activities, with the Downieville Downhill mountain biking trail being one of the most famous in the country. The North Yuba River provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and gold panning, making Downieville a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Sierra City
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 96125
- Latitude: 39.5702° N
- Longitude: 120.6349° W
City Location and History
Sierra City is located in the western part of Sierra County, along Highway 49 and near the North Yuba River. Established in the early 1850s during the California Gold Rush, Sierra City quickly grew as miners flocked to the area to seek their fortunes. The town’s location at the base of the Sierra Buttes, a dramatic granite peak, made it a center for both mining and later for tourism. At its peak, Sierra City had a vibrant community with hotels, saloons, and stores catering to the needs of miners and their families. As with many other gold rush towns, Sierra City’s population declined as the gold reserves dwindled. However, the town has preserved much of its historic charm and continues to attract visitors interested in its history and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sierra City does not have its own schools; students typically attend schools in nearby Downieville or Loyalton. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Kentucky Mine Museum, which offers guided tours of one of the best-preserved gold mining sites in the region. The museum features a working stamp mill and provides insight into the mining techniques used during the gold rush. Sierra City’s proximity to the Sierra Buttes and the Pacific Crest Trail makes it a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Sardine Lakes, located nearby, offer stunning views and recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Sierra City’s blend of historic charm and access to outdoor activities makes it a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike.
Loyalton
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 1.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 740 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 96118
- Latitude: 39.6768° N
- Longitude: 120.2405° W
City Location and History
Loyalton, the only incorporated city in Sierra County, is located in the eastern part of the county, within the Sierra Valley. The town was originally established in the late 19th century as a lumber and ranching community, supporting the region’s agricultural and timber industries. Loyalton quickly became known as the “Pine Box Capital of the West” due to its extensive production of lumber and wooden shipping crates. The town was officially incorporated in 1901, and while it never experienced the gold rush boom like other parts of Sierra County, it has maintained a steady population over the years. Today, Loyalton serves as a hub for the surrounding rural areas, providing essential services and maintaining a strong community spirit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Loyalton is served by the Sierra-Plumas Joint Unified School District, with Loyalton High School and Loyalton Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The town is known for its close-knit community and traditional values, reflected in its annual events like the Sierra Valley Labor Day Fair and Parade, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage. Landmarks in Loyalton include the Loyalton Museum, which showcases the history of the Sierra Valley, including its ranching and logging past. The Sierra Valley, one of the largest alpine valleys in North America, surrounds the town and offers stunning views, birdwatching, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Loyalton’s combination of historical significance, agricultural roots, and natural beauty makes it a unique and enduring community in Sierra County.
Sierraville
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 5.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 96126
- Latitude: 39.5932° N
- Longitude: 120.3660° W
City Location and History
Sierraville is located in the southern part of Sierra County, at the intersection of State Routes 49 and 89, within the Sierra Valley. The town was founded in the mid-19th century, initially serving as a stopover for travelers and a center for ranching and logging activities. Sierraville, like many other towns in Sierra County, has deep roots in the region’s agricultural and timber industries, with cattle ranching and hay farming playing significant roles in the local economy. The town’s location in the expansive Sierra Valley, surrounded by mountains and forests, has made it a tranquil and scenic community, popular among those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sierraville does not have its own schools; students typically attend school in nearby Loyalton or Truckee. The town’s main landmarks include the historic Sierraville School, which, although no longer in operation, serves as a reminder of the town’s educational past. Sierraville is also known for its hot springs, with the Sierra Hot Springs resort offering a unique blend of relaxation and natural beauty. The surrounding area, including the Tahoe National Forest, provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The town’s peaceful setting, combined with its rich history and proximity to natural attractions, makes Sierraville a charming and inviting place to live and visit.
Map of Cities in Sierra County, CA
