Shasta County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Shasta County, California.


Introduction to Shasta County

Shasta County is a picturesque and vibrant county located in Shasta Cascades, California. It is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. From scenic drives to hiking, fishing, and boating, Shasta County has something for everyone. Shasta County is rich in history and culture, and it is home to a diverse community of people who are generous, welcoming, and passionate. In this comprehensive guide, we will introduce you to the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Shasta County.

List of Places to Visit in Shasta County

Here are some of the must-visit places in Shasta County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Turtle Bay Exploration Park: a sprawling 300-acre park complex featuring a museum, botanical gardens, and live animal exhibits.
  • Shasta State Historic Park: a historic park that preserves a collection of early 19th century buildings, including an old schoolhouse and a courthouse.
  • Shasta Dam: a concrete arch-gravity dam at the Shasta Lake that offers breathtaking views and a guided tour of the dam.
  • Behrens-Eaton Museum: a museum that showcases the historical events and innovations that shaped the region.

Natural Attractions of Shasta County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shasta Lake: a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: a geological wonderland that features bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and volcanic peaks.
  • McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park: a state park that features a stunning 129-foot waterfall and amazing hiking trails.
  • Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: a scenic recreational area with hiking trails, waterfalls, camping grounds, and a lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shasta County

If you love hiking and biking, Shasta County has some of the best trails in the region. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Bizz Johnson Trail: a 25-mile bike trail that takes you through the mountains and past old railroad stations.
  • Castle Crags State Park: a park with a vast network of hiking trails and stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding region.
  • Sacramento River Trail: a 17-mile paved bike trail that runs along the Sacramento River.
  • Mt. Shasta: one of the most popular hiking destinations in the country, featuring the challenging climb to the 14,179-foot peak.

Best Things to Do in Shasta County: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Shasta County, whether you are traveling solo or with your family. Here are some of the best activities:

  • Shasta Caverns: a guided tour of the underground caverns and an exciting boat ride over Shasta Lake.
  • Sundial Bridge: an iconic pedestrian bridge that spans the Sacramento River and showcases stunning architecture.
  • Fishing and Boating: Shasta Lake is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shasta County

Day 1: Visit the Turtle Bay Exploration Park and enjoy the botanical gardens. Day 2: Go hiking at Castle Crags State Park and enjoy the stunning views. Day 3: Take the Bizz Johnson Trail and enjoy the scenic bike ride. Day 4: Visit McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and explore the falls and hiking trails. Day 5: Take a guided boat tour of Shasta Caverns and explore the underground caves. Day 6: Explore the history of the region at the Shasta State Historic Park. Day 7: Relax at the Shasta Lake and go fishing or kayaking.

Food and Drink Scene of Shasta County

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Tri-tip: a regional specialty that is grilled and packed with flavor.
  • Blackberry Cobbler: a delicious dessert made with fresh blackberries.

Local Beverages:

  • Shasta Daisy Cocktail: a refreshing cocktail made with gin and local honey.
  • Shasta Coffee: a delicious coffee blend made with locally sourced beans.

Where to Stay in Shasta County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best options for accommodation in Shasta County:

  • Hilton Garden Inn: a modern hotel located in Redding.
  • Oxford Suites: a family-friendly hotel located in Redding.
  • Bridge Bay Resort: a lakeside resort that offers cabins and RV hookups.
  • The Lion’s Den Guest House: a cozy and charming guesthouse located in Burney.

What to Buy in Shasta County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local honey: Shasta County is known for its delicious honey, which you can purchase at local farmer’s markets.
  • Handcrafted pottery: unique and beautiful pottery handmade by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Shasta County

Shasta County is a diverse community where people are friendly and welcoming. Respect for nature and the environment is a key part of local culture, and visitors are expected to show the same respect for the land and the people.

Best Time to Visit Shasta County

The best time to visit Shasta County is between June and October when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shasta County

Do:

  • Respect the environment and the land.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect the culture and customs of the local people.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shasta County

Shasta County is a relatively safe place to visit, but it is always wise to take basic precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Health in Shasta County

Shasta County has good healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics.

Getting to Shasta County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shasta County

The nearest major airports to Shasta County are Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

Bus Stations Near Shasta County

Greyhound and Amtrak both operate bus stations in Redding.

Other Options

Renting a car is the best way to explore Shasta County as public transportation is limited.

How to Get Around in Shasta County

Renting a car is the best way to get around Shasta County.

Where to Go Next from Shasta County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sacramento: the capital of California, is just a 2.5-hour drive from Shasta County, and it offers a variety of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
  • Napa Valley: the famous wine region is a 3-hour drive from Shasta County.

Conclusion

Shasta County is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. With its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures, it is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Shasta County and that you enjoy your stay in this wonderful part of California.



    Fall River Mills
    French Gulch
    Lakehead
    Round Mountain
    Shasta Lake
    Shingletown