Bit Of Alturas History
As the seat of Modoc County, Alturas (Spanish for "Valley on Top of a Mountain") lies in the broad valley of the Pit River, near the center of the county. Before white men arrived, Alturas was occupied by a branch of the Pit River or Achomawe Tribe of Native Americans.
The valley is a prehistoric lake bed which was formed from alternating erosion and rebuilding of the volcamic flows of the Modoc Plateau which surrounds all but the northeast side of it.

The city's limit is bordered on the south by the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, where natural wetlands have been preserved. A new vista point has been built along the highway a quarter mile from town to allow viewing deer, antelope, Sandhill Cranes, Canada Geese, and other inhabitants.

Listed below you will find just a few of the things to see and do in and around Alturas. For a complete list, please visit the official Alturas Chamber Of Commerce web site.

Winter Time Recreation
In the Winter you can find an abundance of activities to do in and around the area. Enjoy Nordic and Alpine skiing at Cedar pass, which offers T-Bar and a bunny hill to meet every level of downhill skiing. For the adventurous skiier, try the set tracks and unbroken wilderness trails. Other activities include Ice Fishing, Outdoor Ice Skating, sledding and snowmobiling.