When I first heard of the World's Smallest Mountain Range I was shocked to find out that it's actually in Northern California. When you hear the words "World's Smallest", it's natural to assume that it's somewhere ELSE in the world, not in YOUR part of the world, right? The Sutter Buttes are an adorable little set of mountains created by an erupted volcano near Yuba City, California, and they're a great little photographic escape. Make sure you fill up the car and pack some snacks and water because services are sparse here. Check out this photo from Nasa to see how they're situated in the valley.
When I say that services are sparse around these mountains, I mean, you're going to see more cows than people. It's a memorable country drive, especially if you go in the springtime when the rolling hills are lush and green. I've driven all the way around the range once, but the really cool trip is up through the middle of the hills on Pass Road, where you are right at the base of the largest peaks. The antennas you see at the top of the mountain belong to some radio groups in the area.
The Sutter Buttes are surrounded by what California is best known for, agricultural land. And because this is an erupted volcano, that land is very fertile with perfect soil for growing many crops including rice, sunflowers, tomatoes, wheat and almond orchards. It's believed this area was last active 1.6 million years ago and it's mind blowing to think about that as you're traveling through.
Today, we have levees and dams that contain rain runoff, but before that, the Sacramento Valley used to become an inland sea and the Sutter Buttes were an island haven for California Indians, settlers and wildlife. Because of their many inhabitants, they've had many names over the years. The Maidu Indians called them “Histum Yani” which translates as, “Middle Mountains of the Valley” or “Spirit Mountain,” depending on the source. According to Maidu legend, after death, the spirits of their people rest in the Buttes before the journey to the afterlife. (Source)
As you drive through the farmland today cows and rock are a common scene, along with wildflowers and lush pasture. I felt like I was in another time and place with no cars or towns for many miles and stopped frequently to take photos of the scenery. This sweet message was scrolled on the edge of the roadway and was the only reminder I saw that I wasn't the only person who traveled through the Buttes.
I encourage you to pack a picnic, grab some binoculars and a camera, load up the car with your family or besties and make a day of it! Or, you can schedule a guided hike through the area with the Middle Mountain Interpretive Hiking guides. If you feel as inspired as I was by this part of California, you'll find a map and more information on how to see the beautiful Buttes here. Happy travels!
