John T, welcome.
Although I'm a bit farther NE of you I can relate to what you are saying, I am also new to my area and after spending my entire life on the Oregon coast, with almost every waking moment out in the hills exploring, hunting, and just plain having a good time, moving to a new area you know nothing about is tough. All I can suggest is after the snow is gone, get out start exploring, I have been through that country, only from I-80, but it looks like a great place. There are several others that post here from time to time from N. CA. so keep a lookout. Good luck!
Jowilly