12 Best Things To Do in Mount Shasta – Your Complete Guide

Are you craving to visit some hill station with beautiful views, landscapes, and meadows?

Mount Shasta, a majestic peak in the cascade range of Northern California, is a dormant volcano at 14,179 feet above sea level. Its surroundings are a haven for outdoor freaks and nature lovers.

There is a wide range of destinations and things to do in Mount Shasta. The table toppers are cascade mountain ranges, panoramic views of alpine forests, glaciers, waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and several lakes.

Go through the guide to explore the breathtaking vistas, rich culture, and ecosystems of Mount Shasta.

Natural Attractions in Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is also known as The crown jewel of the area. It is a composite cone-shaped volcano.

There are various viewpoints, glaciers, snowfields, and wildflower-filled meadows on different levels of Mount Shasta, accessible by different hiking trails.

McCloud Falls

McCloud Falls is a series of three waterfalls. Upper McCloud Falls, Middle McCloud Falls, and Lower McCloud Falls, respectively. They originated from the McCloud River, coming from a scenic canyon. Visitors can hike to the base of each waterfall and enjoy boating.

Castle Lake

The beautiful Castle Lake is situated at a height of 5900 feet. It offers a panoramic view of Mount Shasta and adjoining mountain ranges. You can enjoy fishing, swimming, and kayaking after a wonderful hike.

Shasta Lake

Shasta Lake is the second-largest water reservoir in California. This is a favorite destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by hills and beautiful landscapes of the McCloud Arm and Castle Lake.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

McArthur-Burney Falls is the tallest waterfall in California. It is 129 feet tall, coming from a fern-filled canyon.

Visitors can wander through hiking trails and enjoy fishing and glamping.

Castle Crags State Park

Castle Crags State Park consists of a dramatic granite rock formation in Northern California. At such altitude, the park has pine forests and sparkling lakes that offer hiking, rock climbing, and fishing opportunities to experience the best things to do in Mount Shasta.

Lake Siskiyou

Lake Siskiyou is located at the headwaters of the Sacramento River. It offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors can enjoy horse riding or lie on green planes and enjoy the peace and views.

Panther Meadows

Panther Meadows is a huge meadow with patches of beautiful species of wildflowers. This is the visitor’s favorite destination for hiking and picnicking with stunning views of Mount Shasta.

 Shasta Valley Wildlife Area 

Shasta Valley is a habitat of a variety of animals. Foxes, deer, coyotes, and a large number of species of birds.

Visitors can enjoy wildlife watching, hiking, and biking.

Lava Beds National Monument

Lava Beds National Monument is a volcanic landscape with lava tubes. It is a short hike away from Mount Shasta. Visitors can explore caves, cinder cones, and lava beds on bikes or foot.

Located a short drive from Mount Shasta, Lava Beds National Monument is a volcanic landscape with lava tubes, caves, and cinder cones. Visitors can explore the lava beds on foot or by bike.

Gateway Trails

Gateway Trails is a system of approximately 50 kilometers located near Mount Shasta. These trails offer various activities for hikers, joggers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. This trail is still under development, with multiple difficulty levels.

Hedge Creek Falls

Hedge Creek Falls is located near Dunsmuir, California, at a short distance from Shasta Mountain. The short hiking trail offers beautiful panoramic views. Avoid the rainy season because this trail can be muddy and slippery.

Things To Do in Mount Shasta

Exploring Mount Shasta

Travelers can wander the lush green meadows and slopes of Mount Shasta. The surroundings are full of alpine forests, rivers, crystal clear lakes, hiking trails, and high mountains. There is no shortage of adventure in Mount Shasta.

Hiking Trails

Wander through an extensive network of hiking trails and absorb the beauty of Mount Shasta. There are trails with different difficulty levels, as it is said difficult paths lead to beautiful destinations, the trails lead to hidden waterfalls, towering pines, and planes with wildflowers.

Hiking Trails in Mount Shasta

• Castle Lake Loop Trail: This trail encircles Castle Lake. This 2.3-mile long provides stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding mountains. The trail is an easy trail, mostly flat and paved, making it an excellent option for all ages.

• Spring Hill Trail: This moderate 3.5-mile trail offers panoramic views of the McCloud Valley and Mount Shasta. The trail has few steeper sections, but the views pay off the effort.

• Panther Meadows Trail: This trail leads to Panther Meadows, a vast wildflower meadow that blooms in the summer. It is a 7-mile out-and-back trail with stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding landscapes.

• Sisson-Callahan Trail: This 8-mile trail winds through forests and meadows with stunning views of Mount Shasta and Castle Lake. The trail is moderately challenging and much harder to finish while raining.

• Avalanche Gulch Route: This 11-mile is the most popular route to the summit of Mount Shasta. With an elevation gain of over 7,000 feet, this route is not for beginners and requires official mountaineering experience and equipment.

• Clear Creek Route: This challenging route is a 10-mile hike with an elevation of 6,000 feet. The route to Mount Shasta is less popular than Avalanche Gulch but more challenging and requires proper mountaineering experience.

Waterfalls and Lakes

Things To Do in Mount Shasta Waterfalls

• Hedge Creek Falls: This is a beautiful 30-foot waterfall that offers an opportunity to walk behind the cascading water in a natural cave. You can reach to base of the waterfall by short and easy hike, making it perfect for families and aged people.

• Ash Creek Falls: Ash Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall on Mount Shasta at roughly 350 feet and is one of the most beautiful.

• Burney Falls: Located a bit far from Mount Shasta, Burney Falls is the most spectacular waterfall in California. The 129-foot waterfall cascades into a turquoise water surrounded by lush ferns.

Things To Do in Mount Shasta Lakes

• Castle Lake: This pristine water body is located at an elevation of 5,900 feet and offers stunning views of Mount Shasta. The lake is famous for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

• Shasta Lake: Shasta Lake is the second-largest reservoir in California. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by hills with beautiful views of the McCloud Arm and Castle Lake.

• Lake Siskiyou: Lake Siskiyou is located at the headwaters of the Sacramento River. This lake offers stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or relax on the shores of the lake.

Outdoor Activities

Camping

One of the best things to do in Mount Shasta is camping. Whether you prefer rustic tent sites or glamping, enjoy nature under the starlit sky, surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves and crackling campfires.

Camping Sites in Mount Shasta

• Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday: This glamping site is located at the base of Mount Shasta. It offers a wide range of amenities, like tent sites, RV sites, cabins, a swimming pool, and a hot tub.

• McBride Springs Campground: With a portrait view of Mount Shasta, this campground is located near McCloud Falls. This site provides luxuries like tents, RV sites, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas with many other amenities.

• Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort: This captivating resort is on the shores of Lake Siskiyou and has a variety of amenities. The table toppers are tent sites, RV sites, cabins, a marina, a swimming pool, and a boat launch.

• Juniper Valley Campsites: This valley consists of a variety of campsites which include tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. This beautiful valley offers stunning views of Mount Shasta.

• Trailer Lane Campground: This campground is situated on Interstate 5. This also offers a variety of amenities, including tent sites, RV sites, and a swimming pool.

• Roca Ranch Camp: This campsite has RV camping only. It is located on a working ranch with stunning views of Mount Shasta.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Mount Shasta offers thrilling winter sports on its snowy slopes. Skiing and snowboarding lovers can perform their stunts way down the powdery runs with the beautiful backdrop of clear skies and peaks.

• Mount Shasta Ski Park: This multi-purpose ski resort is just six miles south of Mount Shasta, with the highest elevation of 6880 feet. This is a great option for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The resort has 23 kilometers of trails spread out over 1,390 feet of vertical. The ski park offers lessons and rentals for all ages.

Six lifts take visitors to the top of Marmot Ridge, Douglas Butte, and Coyote Butte.

Fishing

Cast your line into the pristine waters full of trout and salmon. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice fisherman, try your luck amidst the serene beauty of nature.

McCloud River Lake, Siskiyou Castle Lake, Shasta Lake, and Ash Creek are some favorite fishing points of visitors.

Before going on your fishing adventure, obtain a valid California fishing license. Licenses can be easily acquired online or at authorized retailers.

Spiritual and Wellness Activities

Yoga Retreats

Find inner peace and feel refreshed in the tranquil surroundings of Mount Shasta with yoga. Revoke your senses with gentle stretches and meditation as you connect with nature.

Meditation Centers

Discover peace for the soul at Mount Shasta’s meditation centers. Take part in guided meditation sessions or do it alone in serene surroundings, where you will feel in another world against the backdrop of whispering pines.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Museums

Explore Mount Shasta’s rich history and diverse culture at its museums. Uncover the famous stories and legends that created the identity of this destination, witnessing Native American artifacts and exhibits.

• Mount Shasta Sisson Museum: This local history museum presents Native American cultures, early settlers, the logging industry, and the natural history of Mount Shasta and its surroundings.

It also offers a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Mount Shasta and the surrounding region. Exploring the museum is free. Visitors can explore a fish hatchery outside the museum.

Historical Landmarks

City of Shasta Historic District

This district was once a busy gold rush outpost in the 1850s and now covers the whole of Shasta. The town is a California Historical Landmark with original buildings and frontier architecture.

Explore the Shasta Schoolhouse, the Catholic Church, and saloons and shops.

McCloud Railroad

This vintage train takes you on a scenic voyage through the Shasta region. Initially, it was built for logging purposes in the 19th century.

The McCloud Railroad is now used to transport visitors for picnics and hangouts. Aboard a vintage steam locomotive and enjoy the serenity.

Castle Lake Camp

It was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, it functioned as a backcountry work camp. Now, the remaining structures stand as a testament to the CCC. The site is now a part of the National Register of Historic Places.

McCloud Falls National Fish Hatchery

This fish was started in 1910 and is one of the oldest in California. It played a significant role in conserving and reintroducing native species of fish. Visitors can enjoy watching different types of fish and can learn about hatchery operations.

Dining and Cuisine

Local Restaurants

Enjoy the flavors of Mount Shasta at its array of local restaurants. From organic cuisine to international dishes, treat your taste buds with dishes crafted from local ingredients and sheer hospitality.

If you want to enjoy a casual American dining experience, go for the Crave and Black Bear Diner restaurants.

Phuket Cafe and Casa Ramos Mexican Restaurant for international cuisines and the Lily’s restaurant for fine dining.

Cafes and Bakeries

Explore Mount Shasta’s charming cafes and bakeries. It includes artisanal coffee blends and freshly baked pastries. Treat yourself to a taste of paradise in a cozy ambiance.

Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe, Yaks Shack, The Coffee Brake, The Oven Bakery LLC, and McCloud’s Coffee House & Bakery are some top-of-the-line bakeries and cafes in Mount Shasta.

Events and Festivals

• Mt. Shasta Psychic & Healing Arts Fair: This spiritual event welcomes masters of various healing modalities and psychic arts. It consists of workshops, readings, and about holistic wellness.

• Geology of the Eastern Klamath Mountains: This event presents the geological history of Mount Shasta’s region through a presentation by local experts. The event is held at the Mount Shasta Sisson Museum.

• Timeless in Time on the Mountain: This multi-day event tells about the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of the region, comprising workshops, presentations, and guided experiences.

• July 4th Events: This is the National event celebrated on the 4th of July. Mount Shasta comes alive with patriotic celebrations. This event includes parades, fireworks displays, and community gatherings.

• Blackberry Music Festival & Pie Sales (Labor Day Weekend): This event is celebrated on Labor Day weekend by the Mount Shasta Rotary Club. Enjoy live music performances by local artists, taste delicious pies and other treats, and take part in the club’s community projects.

• Montague Balloon Fair: Enjoy the family-friendly event and witness a breathtaking view of the vibrant hot air balloons flying over the skies of Montague, California.

• Crab Feed: This delicious event is hosted by the Mount Shasta Chamber of Commerce for the community to welcome winter and offer them tasty crabs.

Shopping and Markets

Artisan Shops

Stroll through Shasta’s local markets and explore artisan shops. Discover precious treasures and handmade souvenirs. These shops are full of amazing art, such as locally made jewelry, handwoven clothes, and many other lovely things.

Farmers Markets

Experience the luxury of the Farmer’s Markets. Enjoy farm-fresh organic products to artisanal cheeses, taste the fruits, and support local farmers.

Accommodation Options

Hotels and Resorts

Mount Shasta has luxury accommodations and cozy Beds and Breakfasts. Feel like a home away from home surrounded by the mountain’s natural beauty.

Some of the famous hotels and resorts in Mount Shasta are:

• LOGE Mt. Shasta. Modest quarters, some with kitchens, in a laid-back motel offering a cafe & free bike rentals.

• Inn at Mount Shasta. Unassuming quarters in a low-key motel offering free Wi-Fi & parking, plus minifridges & microwaves.

• Best Western Plus Tree House. Relaxed hotel offering 2 restaurants & an indoor pool, plus mountain views & free Wi-Fi.

• Dream Inn. Straightforward rooms with period decor & Wi-Fi access in a Victorian-style guesthouse.

Cabins and Vacation Rentals

Experience living in the mountains with cabins and vacation rentals in Mount Shasta. These modern cabins offer a sanctuary for rest and enjoyment away from the city’s noise in between towering mountains and pine forests.

Transportation in Mount Shasta

Public Transportation

Navigate Mount Shasta with ease with its public transportation system. Explore the region’s attractions with shuttle services and local buses without the hassle of driving as you are on a journey of discovery in the scenic beauty of the landscape.

Car Rentals

Enjoy a road trip adventure with car rentals in Mount Shasta to enjoy the freedom and flexibility to discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks at your own will and pace.

Safety Tips and Guidelines

It is compulsory to prioritize safety and precautions before leaving on Mount Shasta’s adventure. Read about local rules and regulations and pack important gear. Take enough food with you to survive in any case of emergency. Do not litter, and respect wildlife and nature.

Conclusion

Mount Shasta isn’t just a destination; it’s a paradise and an experience waiting to be explored. This enchanting mountain offers adventure, serenity, spiritual renewal, and a sanctuary for every soul. From its towering peaks, lakes, rivers, and skiing slopes to its tranquil valleys, lose yourself in the magic of Mount Shasta and discover the wonders of nature.

FAQs About Things To Do in Mount Shasta

Explore More About California

• Best Once In a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Discover Best Cities to Visit in California | Unveiling Gems
• Heavenly California Hot Springs – A Budget-Friendly Guide
• 5 Best View of the Golden Gate Bridge & San Francisco, CA
• Top 7 Best Santa Barbara Hot Springs – Healing Spas of CA
• 7 Best Northern California Beach Towns Find Secret Gateways
• Explore Best Avocado Festivals in California with Free Music
• 9 Best Healing Southern California Hot Springs – Free Guide
• Free Tour Guide to Painted Cave Channel Islands Santa Cruz
• 3 Best Babymoon in California Destinations For Couples
• Enjoy Best Lantern Festival Los Angeles | Explore Vibrant CA
• Experience the Magic of Rainbow Bridge Folsom CA Today!
  

Discover More

• Discover The Best Place to Snorkel in Cozumel & Marine Life
• Deluxe Glamping in Grand Canyon – Luxury Under the Stars
• 5 Most Expensive Hotels in Chicago-Luxury Awaits