Feather River is located in northeast California, about 65 miles north of Sacramento. Western access is north of Oroville on CA 70. The byway travels north to Belden and then east to the intersection with US 395, near the Nevada border. Feather River is a 130-mile route that follows CA 70, a two-lane paved road suitable for all types of vehicles. Winter driving conditions can be hazardous but otherwise the byway is open year-round.

Feather River follows a route that divides the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountain Ranges. The byway provides the lowest pass route through the Sierras. It crosses Plumas National Forest through steep canyon walls covered with moss and ferns, past rock outcrops, and scenic waterfalls.

Bucks Lake Wilderness Area lay south of the byway and attracts back country hikers, horseback riders, and back packers. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is also accessed from the byway in Belden. Several campgrounds and picnic areas are along the route. Others can be found by taking the many side roads into the national forest. The State of California manages two recreation areas: Lake Oroville and Plumas-Eureka. Lake Oroville has over 200 RV and tent campsites; 70 with water and electric hookups. The 15,500-acre lake offers boating, skiing, swimming, and fishing. Plumas-Eureka State Park has 67 RV and tent campsites (24 foot RV length limit), nature and hiking trails, and other amenities.

Information: Plumas National Forest, 159 Lawrence St, Quincy CA 95971 / 530-283-2050. Sierra Plumas Eureka State Park, 310 Johnsville Rd, Blairsden CA 96130 / 530-836-2380. Lake Oroville SRA, 400 Glen Dr, Oroville CA 95966 / 530-538-2200