Recreation in and around Mt. Shasta
Scenic Tours
Mt. Shasta
Drive the slopes of this 14,162 foot snowcapped, dormant volcano. Stop and take photos along several vista points that provide magnificent views of the Sacramento River canyon (southwest), the Eddy Mountains (west), and glimpses of Mt. Lassen (south). At the Everitt Vista Turnout, enjoy a short hike through pine forests to a lava rock ourcrop to view the broad McCloud valley. Adventurous drivers can turn onto Sand Flat Road, an unpaved road through rare red fir forests that loops back to the highway. Bunny Flat, 11 miles from town, is a major mountain access point for mountain climbers and hikers during the summer and is popular for cross country skiing, Snowmobiling and snow play during the winter months. About 14 miles from town the highway ends at Old Ski Bowl Vista and legendary Panther Meadow. You will be surrounded by impressive scenery of Mt. Shasta's peak, spires of Castle Crags, and the rugged Trinity Mountains. Hiking trails begin nearby. Water is available at Horse Camp and McBride Springs Campground. Public restrooms at McBride Springs campground, Everitt Vista Turnout and Bunny Flat. To reach Everitt Memorial Highway (A-10) drive east on Lake Street in Mount Shasta City and continue past the high school. Proceed uphill on paved, two-lane road. For more information contact the U.S. Forest Service, Mt. Shasta Ranger Station at (530) 926-4511.
The Headwaters of the Sacramento River
At the north end of town, in the Mount Shasta City Park, Big Spring gushes icy clear water from a lava tube originating deep within Mt. Shasta. The water flows into Cold Creek which is the northern most feeder stream of the Sacramento River, traveling from here down through the Golden Gate in San Francisco, a 270+ mile trip. Hiking trails through protected areas in the park feature native plants. Picnic tables, barbecues, play fields, playgrounds, gazebo and public rest rooms, all available for free. From Lake Street drive north on N. Mt. Shasta Blvd. to Nixon Rd. Cross the railroad tracks and turn right into the Mt. Shasta City Park. For more information, contact Mt. Shasta Parks & Recreation Dept. (530) 926-2494.
Box Canyon Dam
Enjoy a stunning view of the rugged 200 foot deep Sacramento River Canyon and pristine Lake Siskiyou. Park on either side of the dam and walk with caution near the roadway to enjoy the view. Look carefully to see eagles and osprey fly over the sheer, rocky cliffs. Lake Siskiyou is a man-made lake created for recreational activities. From Mount Shasta's central exit on I-5, drive west to Old Stage Rd. Turn left and proceed on W.A. Barr Road to the dam. park off the road on either side of dam and use caution near roadway.
Castle Lake
Just12 miles southwest of Mount Shasta, this easily accessible clear alpine lake in a granite bowl is surrounded by pine forests. Castle Lake is located high in the Eddy Mountains west of Mt. Shasta. Fishing, swimming picnic table. Ice skating in the winter. Campground is 1/2 mile from the lake. No water, no fees. From W.A. Barr Rd. proceed across Box Canyon Dam turn left on paved Castle Lake Rd. for 7 miles to Castle Lake.
Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery
The oldest operating hatchery in the West. Large open ponds hold Rainbow and Brown trout raised to stock mountain streams, rivers and lakes for fishing. View spawning on selected Tuesdays during fall and winter months. For tours by reservation, free admission. Drive 1/2 mile west of Central I-5 exit to Old Stage Rd. Information (530) 926-2215.
Sisson Museum
Adjacent to the fish hatchery, the Sisson Museum lets you step back in time to the adventures of the colorful past of the Strawberry Valley. Changing exhibits and a nine foot Raikes Teddy Bear are special features. Sisson Museum, staffed by volunteers and funded by donations, is located on the Mt. Shasta Fish Hatchery grounds. Public restrooms, drinking fountain, picnic tables. Gift store. Free Admission. Open daily 10am-5pm May through September; noon-4pm during winter months. Closed January and February for exhibit changes. Drive 1/2 mile west of Mount Shasta on Lake Street to Old Stage Rd. stop sign. Proceed across Old Stage into parking lot. information (530) 926-5508.
Related Businesses
Shasta Sunset Dinner Train
Main Street, McCloud, CA 96057
530-964-2142
A unique dining experience in turn-of-the century restored rail cars. Special events trains featuring music and theatre happen throughout the season.