Mount Shasta
Trails, streams and lakes beckon in the shadow of an iconic peak
Towering at 14,179 feet above sea level, Mount Shasta cuts a dramatic figure on the skyline of Northern California’s Siskiyou County. Even more spectacular are the many opportunities for outdoor adventure on the mountainside and on the surrounding lakes.
Getting Out On Foot
Active and able-bodied visitors enjoy an abundance of summer and winter excursions, thanks to the many hiking and backpacking trails, as well as opportunities for winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
The easy trail leading to John Everitt Memorial Vista reveals large, old-growth conifer stands and panoramic views of McCloud and Sacramento river canyons to the south of Mount Shasta. The Panther Meadow Trail takes walkers around an alpine meadow that blooms with wildflowers in early summer. When snow is powdery and plentiful, the Mount Shasta Nordic Center directs snowshoers and cross-country skiers to its seven-mile network of manageable trails.
Step out of the mountain sunshine and into ancient caves north of Mount Shasta, where exploration is encouraged. Pluto’s Cave formed when lava erupted from a vent between nearby Deer Mountain and the Whaleback formation nearly 200,000 years ago.
South of Mount Shasta, the Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark is a compelling cavern with paved walkways and stairs.
Exploring On Two Wheels—Or Four
Road biking opportunities are plentiful around Mount Shasta, and you don’t have to hold any speed records to participate. Rides around the valley take travelers past cattle ranches and hay fields, and each ride boasts stunning views of Mount Shasta. Take a paved route to nearby Kangaroo or Castle lakes and see alpine lakes carved out by ancient glaciers along the way.
The beauty of Mount Shasta is equally enjoyable from the comfort of a four-wheeled vehicle. Drive up the slopes of the dormant volcano and stop for photos at vista points that look out over the Eddy Mountains to the west, Mount Lassen to the south and other peaks in the Cascade Range.
Catch Of The Day
The abundance of lakes and streams means licensed fishing is a popular pastime for residents and visitors. Lake Siskiyou is fed by five mountain streams and spans 430 acres, with Box Canyon Dam rising at its south end. Rainbow and brown trout are frequently caught here.
Nearby Castle Lake rests in a pine-covered bowl and teems with brook and rainbow trout.
For More Information
Mount Shasta Visitors Bureau
530-926-4865
www.visitmtshasta.com
California Travel and Tourism Commission
877-225-4367
www.visitcalifornia.com
