Usually, when you think of mountains in Northern California, amazing peaks like Mount Shasta, Mount Lassen, or the Siskiyou Mountains come to mind. Our region definitely has its fair share of towering mountain ranges. But did you know Northern California is also home to what is considered “the smallest mountain range in the world”? The Sutter Buttes Mountain Range “mountains” may be small, but they sure are beautiful. And they are definitely worth at least a quick visit if you find yourself in the area.

Lying within the Great Valley of California and approximately 50 miles north of Sacramento are the Sutter Buttes. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is something that must be seen.
John Game/Flickr
This awe-inspiring natural wonder, one of several natural wonders in Northern California, is something that must be seen.
The history of this area is really fascinating.
ejbSF/Flickr
The buttes are often referred to as "the smallest mountain range in the world." However, they are not technically mountains. They are the remnants of a volcano that has remained dormant for over 1.4 million years.
The buttes form a small circle approximately 10 miles in diameter. The highest point can be found at the summit of the South Butte, at 2,122 feet, and is actually the highest point in all of Sutter County.
scot2342/Flickr
The highest point can be found at the summit of the South Butte, at 2,122 feet, and is actually the highest point in all of Sutter County. Those interested in geological wonders, especially in Northern California, will find these particularly interesting.
Because they are such small mountains, the Sutter Buttes Mountain Range definitely has an enticing aura about it.
Carrie C/TripAdvisor
It feels so serene here and almost looks like a scene out of a Tolkien novel! If you enjoy picturesque Northern California landscapes, this one will absolutely captivate you!

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Sitting at the foot of the buttes is the small town of Sutter.
Alisha Vargas/Flickr
Most of the land around the buttes is considered private property, although a portion of it belongs to the State of California and is to be turned into a state park.
The sight of farm animals meandering around the lush green buttes is definitely postcard-worthy. Spring is considered the best time to visit since that is when the buttes come alive with the blossoming of wildflowers.
CTBCalifornia/TripAdvisor
Spring is considered the best time to visit since that is when the buttes come alive with the blossoming of wildflowers.
Since a majority of the buttes are located on private land, it can be a challenge seeing them up close. However, it is possible. You can arrange a guided hike with a company called Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes who have special permission from the landowners to lead the public to the buttes.
Carrie C/TripAdvisor
You can arrange a guided hike with a company called Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes who have special permission from the landowners to lead the public to the buttes. It is definitely hiking in Northern California at its finest.
There's almost something spiritual about this place.
James Good/Flickr
The buttes are a prominent part of the indigenous Maidu and Wintun people's creation stories. According to the Maidu, this is where spirits would come before eventually moving on to the afterlife. Pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend some time here soaking in the ancient feeling.
This place may not get the same attention that humongous peaks like Shasta does, but there's something incredibly unique about the buttes.
johnmark7/Flickr
This is by far one of the most unique natural wonders in California and is definitely worthy of a trip.

Have you ever been to the Sutter Buttes Mountain Range? If so, what did you think? Were they really small but mighty? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below and see your picturesque photos! You can learn more about them on the California Department of Parks and Recreation website.

Check out these other awesome destinations that are worthy of a quick day trip.

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Sutter Buttes, California 95982, USA