The City of Portola, The Pride of the West, is the only incorporated city in Plumas County. Our Heritage has transitioned over the years from a stage stop for early Gold Rush pioneers to an essential rail yard for the former Western Pacific Railroad, and it is now a modern community with all the amenities you desire to work, live and play in. Whatever your purpose is for visiting our wonderful city, we sincerely hope, and strive, to make your trip one that will last forever in your memories.
Located in the high Sierras in the eastern portion of Plumas County, the City of Portola (pop. 2,104) is a full service city that is clean, safe, affordable, and ideal for raising a family with year-round recreation. Portola was founded and still serves as a railroad town along the Union Pacific Railroads beautiful Feather River Route. The name Portola was suggested at a festival in San Francisco honoring the Spanish Explorer Guadeloupe Portola and was approved by the U.S. Post Office in 1909. At that time the town had a population of around 200 and grew with the booming lumber business and as a railroad head. Incorporation of the City was on May 16, 1946. A working railroad museum enables hands on experiences including the opportunity to operate a locomotive. The Middle Fork of the Feather River flows through the City and features a riverwalk, fishing, and other local recreational opportunities. The community is the home of fine schools and a hospital that serves a wide variety of needs from minor to long-term care. A new court building located in Portola is the first of its kind in California to serve two counties. A diverse population of families reside in the community including professionals, railroad workers, and retirees. Portola is close to Reno, Nevada for major entertainment, an international airport and other amenities found only in larger cities.