Spotlight: Mount Shasta
Northern California’s iconic peak offers up fun
Mount Shasta is a family-friendly destination that offers world-class skiing, rafting and kayaking—to name just a few popular activities. This region has been home to native peoples, European settlers, gold miners and timber barons.
In the winter, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding bring adventurers to the area’s namesake, a single peak in the Cascade chain of mountains that rises 14,180 feet. Experienced climbers are invited to ascend to Shasta’s peak with the assistance of a wilderness permit, proper equipment and a knowledgeable guide.
During the warm-weather months, bicyclists, hikers and horseback riders can explore the natural beauty of Mount Shasta along more than 100 miles of multiuse trails in the area. Out on the upper Sacramento River, fishermen cast their lines for big catches. Rafting and kayaking on the Klamath and Sacramento rivers promise scenic views and thrilling whitewater.
California Travel and Tourism Commission/Andreas Hub
Terrific Tours
Take in more of the sights around Mount Shasta on a scenic tour. Several vista points along the slopes of the volcano offer stellar views of the Sacramento River Canyon, the Eddy Mountain and nearby Mount Lassen. If you’ve got an all-wheel-drive vehicle, venture down Sand Flat Road, which winds through rare red-fir forests before looping back to the highway.
Take your sturdy 4×4 for a spin at the Chappie-Shasta OHV Area, which offers elevations ranging from 600 to 5,000 feet. The diverse terrain stretches across 52,000 acres of off-road-accessible wilderness.
Nearby, McCloud River boasts three spectacular waterfalls: the Lower, Middle and Upper Falls, each with its own distinct personality. A trail connects all three falls; see the natural wonder from an overlook or from a pool where water collects.
Cool off after the tour at Mt. Shasta Brewing Co., which also provides tours and features a tasting room.
Wild on Mount Shasta
If you long to see the wildlife of Northern California in its natural element, visit Shasta Valley Wildlife Area and gaze at pronghorn antelope, coyote, porcupine and several species of game birds, including quail and dove.
Take a guided tour of Lake Shasta Caverns, situated more than 800 feet above Lake Shasta. Paved walkways, stairs and guardrails help visitors safely navigate this subterranean wonderland. Pay an independent visit to Barnum Cave or Pluto’s Cave, which were formed by lava.
For More Information
California Travel and Tourism Commission
877-225-4367
www.visitcalifornia.com
