Alturas, California
Modoc County Seat and Gateway to Northeast California
Alturas (population ~2,800) is the county seat and largest community in Modoc County. This charming small town serves as the commercial hub and gateway for exploring Northeast California's wilderness areas.
Founded in the 1870s, Alturas offers modern amenities while preserving its authentic Western character. The town provides full services for visitors including lodging, dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation access.
Things to See & Do
Modoc County Historical Museum
Explore the region's Native American heritage, pioneer history, and natural history. Features extensive collections and exhibits about Modoc County's past.
Historic Courthouse
Beautiful 1914 Classical Revival architecture in downtown Alturas. A stunning example of early 20th century civic buildings.
Niles Hotel & Saloon
Historic 1908 landmark with authentic Old West atmosphere. Step into the Old West on Bartell's Backroads.
Downtown Shopping
Browse local shops, antique stores, and Western wear. Experience small-town Main Street shopping.
Events
- Modoc County Fair - August (rodeo, exhibits, carnival)
- Main Street Farmers Market - Summer weekends
Where to Stay
Hotels
- Hotel Niles - Historic 1908 hotel with Old West charm (4.3★, $120). Tour this landmark
- Trailside Inn - Outdoor pool, free breakfast (3.9★, $97)
- Super 8 by Wyndham Alturas - Budget hotel, free breakfast (3.9★, $89)
- Modoc INN - Free breakfast (4.1★, $79)
Motels
- Wagon Wheel Motel - (4.4★)
- Rim Rock Motel - Free WiFi & stables (4.2★)
- Hacienda Motel - Free Wi-Fi (4.0★, $75)
Where to Eat
American & Steakhouses
- Niles Hotel & Saloon - Historic 1908 saloon with steaks and burgers. Step into the Old West
- Brass Rail - Local favorite for steaks and comfort food (4.4★)
- Wagon Wheel Restaurant - Family dining (4.7★)
- Auction Yard Café - American cuisine (4.7★)
- Lazy B - (4.5★)
- Double-A Cafe - (5.0★)
- Frosty's - Burgers (4.2★)
Mexican Restaurants
- Rubio's Taqueria - (4.6★)
- Guerrerense y jaliscinse - (5.0★)
- Cuatro Palomas Taqueria - (5.0★)
- Taqueria - (5.0★)
Italian & Asian Cuisine
- Antonio's Cucina Italiana - Italian dining (4.4★)
- Nuch's Thai Food - Thai cuisine (4.3★)
- Hoang Chinese Restaurant - Chinese (4.7★)
Additional Options
- Arrowhead Golf Course & Restaurant - (4.6★)
- Subway - Sandwiches
Groceries & Supplies
Grocery Stores
- Holiday Market - 1200 W 12th St (4.5★)
- Grocery Outlet - 603 W 12th St (4.5★)
- Four Corners Market - 1077 N Main St (4.5★)
- Dollar General - 114 W 12th St (3.9★)
- Bottle Shop - 304 N Main St, deli sandwiches (4.1★)
Hardware & Outdoor
- Four Seasons Supply (Ace Hardware) - 304 S Court St
- Camping gear, fishing tackle, outdoor equipment
Pharmacies
- Last Frontier Pharmacy - 1111 N Nagle St
- Rite Aid Pharmacy - 432 N Main St
Gas & Convenience
- Valero - Modoc Mini Mart - 123 W 12th St (4.5★)
- Gils Gas And Grocery - 402 N Main St (4.1★)
- Chevron - 1080 N Main St (3.6★)
Getting to Alturas
Location
Alturas is located on the junction of US-395 and CA-299 in northeast California.
- 350 miles from San Francisco (~6 hours)
- 250 miles from Sacramento (~4.5 hours)
- 150 miles from Reno, NV (~3 hours)
Services
Alturas is your base for exploring Modoc County:
- Last full services before heading to remote areas
- Stock up on supplies, fuel, and food
- Cell service available in town