Sierra County, California
Sierra County is a small and remote part of the Sierra Nevada in northeastern California. It is California’s second-least populous county, giving the area a quiet and sparsely populated character.
Downieville, the county seat, is a historic mining town that has become especially popular with mountain bikers. The county’s remote nature is reflected in its lack of traffic lights and limited urban development.
Sierra County is an ideal destination for fishing, hiking, and getting away from busy city life. Its mountains, forests, and rivers provide abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, although visitors should not expect much nightlife or reliable cell service in many remote areas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Sierra County |
| County Seat | Downieville |
| Population | Approximately 3,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Downieville, Sierra City, Loyalton, Calpine, Alleghany |
| Interstates and Highways | State Route 49, State Route 89 |
| FIPS Code | 06-091 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 3,287 square miles (Land: 3,223 sq mi, Water: 64 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Nevada County (South), Yuba County (West), Plumas County (North), Lassen County (Northeast), Washoe County, Nevada (East)|
| Time Zone | Pacific Standard Time (PST) |
| State | California |
| Coordinates | 39.5960° N, 120.7422° W |
| Etymology | Named after the Sierra Nevada mountain range |
| Major Landmarks | Sierra Buttes, Yuba River, Downieville Historic District, Plumas-Eureka State Park |
PHYSICAL MAP
Sierra County Topographic Map
This topographic map highlights Sierra County’s rugged High Sierra Nevada landscape. The contour lines reveal deep river canyons, heavily forested slopes, and mountain peaks along the Sierra crest.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Sierra County Satellite Map
This satellite map shows the deeply incised river canyons cutting through Sierra County’s mountainous terrain. Dense forests dominate the landscape, with relatively few roads and communities interrupting the remote wilderness.
OUTLINE MAP
Sierra County Blank Map
This blank map outlines Sierra County’s compact shape in the northern Sierra Nevada. The eastern boundary follows the California-Nevada state line, emphasizing the county’s remote and sparsely populated setting.
California County Maps
California County Map
Ever wonder how California’s 58 counties are organized? Our California county map lays them all out, from the Pacific Coast to the vast desert regions. Explore the map to find the counties you know—and perhaps discover a few you don’t.