The Community of Lewiston

To the passing observer, it looks to be a gem – long lost. To us she's a beauty, the gold miners' ghost town sprung back to life. She's Lewiston – in a hurry to settle down.

To the visitor, Lewiston and her nearby neighbor, Lewiston Lake, offer secrets waiting to be explored. She's that place where the river truly runs through. She's scandalous, but sensitive; worn, but lovely; quiet, but tempestuous. We're proud of her. Let us tell you why. But to tell it right, we really need to know something about you and your family. Do you enjoy . . .

Rivers

The Trinity River is the heart of Lewiston. Beginning high in the Trinity Alps the river, with its feeder creeks and streams, provides over 1,500 miles of fishable water. The two major lakes (Trinity Lake and Lewiston Lake) only briefly interrupt the passage of our river to the ocean.

The Trinity River offers our main source of recreational activities. Flyfishing in the streams flowing from the Alps offers some of the finest freestone streams in the world. As the river flows out of Lewiston Lake into the "flyfishing only – catch and release" waters, one encounters German Browns, Steelhead and Rainbow in great abundance. The spring and fall salmon runs will thrill any angler.

But the Trinity River is not just for fishing. The beauty and tranquility of this stretch of river around Lewiston refreshes the soul. It will cause you to forget the forgettable and remember only the importance of living. May we suggest rafting, picnicking or capturing the beauty on film.

Lakes

Lakes – Do we have lakes for you! Over 60 alpine lakes are hidden in the more than 500,000 acres encompassing the Trinity Alps wilderness area. Some lakes require days of hiking to reach, while others are as nearby as a quarter-mile stroll.

The two largest lakes (Trinity Lake and Lewiston Lake) are the recreation centers.

Trinity Lake is the second largest lake in northern California, providing warm water activities of boating, swimming, skiing, and great bass fishing. The state record for small mouth bass rests with Trinity Lake, while large mouth bass constantly hover around 10 pounds.

Trinity Lake's neighbor, Lewiston Lake, is a near opposite. Lewiston Lake maintains cold water year around which supports a renowned trout fishery. German Browns, Loc Levin Browns, Rainbow, Brook and Eagle Lake trout thrill every angler. Surrounding the lake are numerous pairs of bald eagles, osprey, falcons and herons reminding you constantly of the beauty nature offers those who will take the time. A canoe ride on Lewiston Lake at dusk puts one's life in perspective.

History

The National Historic Gold Mining Town of Lewiston. That's an awful powerful phrase for our small town. Thirteen buildings stretch out alongside the Trinity River. Buildings date back to the ruckus gold discovery days of the 1850's.

The remaining buildings feature an excellent dining house in the old stage coach stop; the county's finest antique shop in the mercantile store; a deck-lined bed and breakfast along the riverside; and numerous shops and homes restored to their original beauty. Other nearby historic communities provide museums and state parks dedicated to exploring the history of California's famous gold rush.