Alturas, California
Modoc County Seat and Gateway to Northeast California
Alturas (population 2,715) is the largest town in Modoc County and the only place for serious miles in any direction with a hospital, a grocery store, gas, and lodging. Downtown is a few blocks of brick storefronts, a 1914 Classical Revival courthouse, and the Niles Hotel & Saloon — open since 1908 and still serving.
Alturas Location
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.
Modoc County Park
Park featuring a historic Southern Pacific steam locomotive displayed under a custom timber shelter, plus a natural playground with climbing elements and slides.
Downtown Shopping
Browse local shops, antique stores, and Western wear. Experience small-town Main Street shopping.
Events
- Alturas Farmers Market - A Modoc Harvest Certified Farmers Market held Saturday mornings, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, in summer (typically July–October). Locally grown produce, ranch products, baked goods, and handcrafted items from Modoc County farmers, ranchers, and artisans, including Bidwell Canyon Farm. Confirm dates with Modoc Harvest.
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 - Basque-inspired dining, a regional tradition (4.4★)
- Wagon Wheel Restaurant - Family dining; limited hours, closed Tue-Wed (4.7★)
- Auction Yard Café - American cuisine; breakfast & lunch only, closed Mon-Tue (4.7★)
- Lazy B - (4.5★)
- Double-A Cafe - (5.0★)
- Frosty's - Burgers (4.2★)
Mexican Restaurants
- Rubio's Taqueria - (4.6★)
- Avila's Taqueria - 206 N Main St, Tue-Sun
- Guerrerense y jaliscinse - (5.0★)
- Cuatro Palomas Taqueria - (5.0★)
- Taqueria - (5.0★)
Italian & Asian Cuisine
- Antonio's Cucina Italiana - Italian dining (4.4★)
- The One Thai Oishi - Thai & Japanese fusion (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
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