Lake County

My husband and I had the opportunity for an end-of-summer visit to Clear Lake in Lake County, about 90 miles north of the San Francisco Bay Area. Clear Lake is the largest natural fresh water lake (43,000 acres) in California. It is located inland, and is accessible from both Interstate 5 and Highway 101. The whole area is an ancient volcanic field, with the dormant Mount Konocti (3,200 ft.) located near the southwest shore of the lake. The Geysers steam field is tapped by geothermal power plants to provide electricity. The soil is rich from ancient volcanic ash, and very productive. The climate is mild, sunny, and typically fog-free.

Clear Lake - classic golden hills dotted with oaks

Lake County region is in Climate Zone 7 - California’s Gray Pine Belt  in the Central Valley (or incense cedars to the north and south). According to Sunset, Zone 7 is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, with sharply defined seasons yet without severe winter cold or humidity. Plants that require a distinct seasonal pattern thrive, such as flower bulbs, peonies, lilacs, and flowering cherries. Deciduous fruit trees also do well, such as apples, cherries, peaches, and pears. Typical winter lows range from 35 to 26°F (2 to –3°C), with record lows averaging from 18 to -0° F (–8 to –18°C).

 

Clear Lake - shoreline wetlands

I loved the contrast of the classic golden hills dotted with oaks, the lush shoreline, and the productive farms and wineries, all in close proximity. We enjoyed learning about the geology of the area, visiting wineries, purchasing fruits and vegetables from roadside stands, and eating a delicious dinner of local ingredients in the town of Clear Lake. The area reminded of me of Napa and Sonoma, but without the crowds, congestion, and commercialization.

Clear Lake - productive farms and wineries