It can get pretty lonely way out there in the middle of nowhere—just ask the residents of Loyalton, California. After all, this Eastern Sierra community has been dubbed “The Loneliest Town In America”. Don’t take that the wrong way. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this little town. There’s plenty to do and see, and the residents are as friendly as ever. However, that hasn’t stopped people from overlooking this town when it comes to visiting this little-known region of Sierra County. Next time you’re in the area, be sure to do both yourself and them a favor by stopping by. They could use the company and you’ll love getting to know this hidden corner of our beloved Northern California.

Boasting a remote location in the Sierra Valley and a tiny population of just 729, Loyalton is officially known as "The Loneliest Town In America". But who exactly is making this claim? Well, it just so happens that it's the residents themselves.
Tobin/Flickr
Loyalton residents Bob & Pam Macey put together a website in which they explained why Loyalton was the loneliest town in the country. And it turns out that they make a pretty good case!
Ken Lund/Flickr
First of all, they have concluded that the "loneliness" of a town can be defined as how many people drive through that town each day that don't live there. According to the site, Loyalton's number is just 10.4 people per day.
Carol Highsmith/Library of Congress

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That might not seem like it's that bad compared to other small towns. However, when you take into account that Loyalton is the largest town in Sierra County, within 40 miles of two major interstate highways, and is located right along the famous State Highway 49, it seems like that number should be awfully bigger.
Carol Highsmith/Library of Congress
Macey states that they "don't mean to brag and [they] don't want any pity", but they would love for you to visit to see what Loyalton has to offer. It turns out that there are plenty of things to do in this tranquil town including fishing, hiking, camping, skiing, hunting, and bird watching.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Eating is another treasured activity among Loyalton residents. Stop by Vicki's Blue Moon Bakery for some of the best donuts ever, Rhonda's Frostie for a tasty burger and shake, or The Golden West Saloon to quench your thirst and enjoy a hearty dinner.
Mark Hogan/Flickr
Loyalton describes itself as "the closest place to somewhere, without being anywhere" and it's that good-humored motto that sums up the delightful nature of this humble town. Do yourself a favor and stop by for a visit. They'd love to have you!
Mark Hogan/Flickr

Have you been to the loneliest town in America? If not, you better visit them soon. For more underrated communities, be sure to check out our list of 10 Little-Known Smallest Towns In Northern California.

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The Most Interesting Places In Northern California

William Suphan | December 27, 2022

What are the best bucket-list places in Northern California?

The best bucket-list places in Northern California include:

  • Point Reyes National Seashore. This is a picturesque coastline in Marin County with preserved wildlands.
  • Lava Beds National Monument. These are ancient lava tubes that are so big that they’ve formed caves you can walk into.
  • Russian River. This is a gorgeous river surrounded by lush trees in Mendocino County with light turquoise waters.
  • Burney Falls. This collection of waterfalls is as beautiful as it gets and has been called the 8th wonder of the world.

Learn more about the best bucket-list places in Northern California. 

What are the best historical landmarks in Northern California?

The best historical landmarks in Northern California include:

  • Mare Island Naval Shipyard. This was the first west coast naval facility in World War II and housed nuclear submarines.
  • Old Customhouse. Located in Monterey, this is an adobe building that was built in 1827 and is where California was proclaimed as a state.
  • John Muir House. This is the house where conservationist John Muir lives from 1890 to 1915. He started the Sierra Club and National Park System to preserve natural places.
  • San Francisco Presidio and National Cemetery. This military cemetery is the site of a former base that was once used by Spain, Mexico, and America.

Find out more about the best historical landmarks in Northern California. 

What are the most charming small towns in Northern California?

The most charming small towns in Northern California include:

  • Little River. Located on the coast and next to Little River, this town of under 500 people is a slow-paced, lovely place.
  • Nevada City. This is a small town surrounded by gorgeous green trees and has stayed the same size since 1900.
  • Camino. This area looks a bit like Tuscany and grows apples, pumpkins, Christmas trees, and grapes for wine.
  • Grass Valley. This was a Gold Rush town and most of the miners were Cornish. Their culture is still prevalent here.

Discover more about the most charming small towns in Northern California. 

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Loyalton, CA 96118, USA