Lakehead Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Lakehead, California.


Introduction to Lakehead

Located in the heart of the Shasta Cascades region, Lakehead is a small community in Shasta County, California that offers outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers an abundance of scenic beauty, breathtaking views, and exciting adventures. The region is home to many crystal-clear lakes, stunning waterfalls, towering peaks, and majestic forests, making it the perfect destination to unwind, relax, and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or a chance to explore California’s natural wonders, Lakehead is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Lakehead

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lakehead is home to many culturally significant attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places in the region include:

  • Turtle Bay Exploration Park: This 300-acre park is home to a museum, aquarium, and botanical gardens that showcase the local history and wildlife of the Shasta Cascades.
  • Shasta State Historic Park: This park is home to historic ruins, including the courthouse, jail, and general store from the Gold Rush era.
  • Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: This park showcases the history of the California Gold Rush with museums, historic sites, and scenic drives.

Natural Attractions of Lakehead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lakehead’s natural beauty is one of the main reasons why visitors come back time and time again. The area is home to many natural attractions, including:

  • Shasta Lake: This man-made lake is one of the largest in California and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
  • Mount Shasta: This towering peak is a landmark that can be seen from miles away. Visitors can hike to the summit or enjoy the view from one of the many scenic drives in the region.
  • Burney Falls: These 129-foot-high waterfalls are one of the most beautiful natural sights in the region and are a must-visit for nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lakehead

Lakehead’s beautiful scenery makes it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best trails in the region include:

  • Lake Shasta Caverns Trail: This 2.6-mile trail rewards hikers with stunning vistas of Lake Shasta and the surrounding peaks.
  • Sacramento River Rail Trail: This 11-mile trail is perfect for both hiking and biking and offers breathtaking views of the Sacramento River.
  • Mount Shasta Loop Trail: This 11-mile trail is one of the most challenging in the region but rewards hikers with stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Lakehead: Activities and Tours

Lakehead offers visitors a wealth of activities and tours to explore the region’s natural beauty, including:

  • Boat tours of Lake Shasta: Visitors can take a guided boat tour of Lake Shasta and explore the hidden coves and inlets.
  • Kayaking and paddleboarding: Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards and explore the region’s many lakes and rivers.
  • Fishing: Lakehead’s lakes and rivers offer some of the best fishing in the region, with a variety of fish including bass, trout, and salmon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lakehead

Day 1: Explore the museums and historical sites in the region, including Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Shasta State Historic Park.

Day 2: Take a guided boat tour of Lake Shasta and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Day 3: Hike the Mount Shasta Loop Trail and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding landscape.

Day 4: Visit Whiskeytown National Recreation Area to learn about the history of the California Gold Rush and enjoy the scenic drives in the region.

Day 5: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the region’s many lakes and rivers.

Day 6: Go fishing in one of the region’s many lakes or rivers and catch some of the local fish species, including bass, trout, and salmon.

Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of the many local spas and wellness centers in the region.

Food and Drink Scene of Lakehead

Must-Try Dishes

Lakehead is known for its local cuisine, which is influenced by the region’s natural resources and agricultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes in the region include:

  • Wild salmon: Lakehead’s waters provide some of the best salmon in the region, which is often served grilled or smoked.
  • Blackberry cobbler: This local favorite is made with fresh blackberries and served warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Grilled tri-tip: This local favorite is seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs and is often served with homemade salsa and tortillas.

Local Beverages

Lakehead is home to many local wineries and breweries that offer visitors the chance to sample some of the region’s best beverages. Some of the must-try drinks in the region include:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon: This popular red wine is produced by many local wineries and is known for its rich, bold flavor.
  • Shasta Cascade brews: The region is home to many local breweries that produce a variety of unique and flavorful beers.

Where to Stay in Lakehead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lakehead offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Some of the best places to stay in the region include:

  • Lakehead Campground and RV Park: This campground offers tent, RV, and cabin accommodations and is located on the shore of Lake Shasta.
  • Bridge Bay Resort: This resort offers cozy cabins and rooms with stunning views of Lake Shasta and the surrounding mountains.
  • Mountain Gate RV Park: This park offers RV and tent camping options and is located in a peaceful setting amidst pine trees and a creek.

What to Buy in Lakehead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lakehead is home to many local shops and markets that sell a variety of unique and handmade products. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Handmade pottery: Lakehead is known for its handmade pottery, which is produced by local artisans using traditional techniques.
  • Local honey: The region is home to many local beekeepers who produce some of the best honey in the region.
  • Handmade jewelry: Local jewelers produce a variety of unique and beautiful pieces using a variety of techniques and materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Lakehead

Lakehead is a region rich in history, culture, and tradition. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs and learn more about the region’s heritage. Some of the local customs and traditions in the region include:

  • Native American heritage: The region is home to many Native American tribes who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors are encouraged to learn more about their traditions and culture.
  • Agricultural heritage: The region has a strong agricultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about the local farming practices and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Lakehead

The best time to visit Lakehead is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the region’s lakes and rivers are ideal for outdoor activities. Fall (September-November) is also a good time to visit, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Winter (December-February) is cold and snowy, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, while spring (March-May) is a time of renewal and growth, with beautiful wildflowers blooming throughout the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lakehead

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the local environment and natural resources.
  • Learn about the region’s history and heritage.

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal activities such as drugs and vandalism.
  • Disrespect the local people and their traditions.
  • Damage natural resources and wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lakehead

While Lakehead is generally a safe destination, visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety, such as:

  • Avoiding walking alone at night.
  • Locking valuables in a safe place.
  • Being aware of their surroundings when hiking or exploring the region.

Health in Lakehead

Visitors to Lakehead should ensure that they have adequate health insurance and carry any necessary medications. It is also important to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen when spending time outdoors to avoid health risks such as dehydration and sunburn.

Getting to Lakehead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lakehead is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Some of the best transportation options in the region include:

Airports Near Lakehead

  • Redding Municipal Airport: This airport is located 18 miles from Lakehead and offers flights to major cities in the region.

Bus Stations Near Lakehead

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: This bus line offers daily bus services to nearby cities and destinations.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car from nearby car rental agencies to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Lakehead

The best way to get around in Lakehead is by car or bike, as the region is spread out and offers many scenic drives and routes to explore. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the many lakes and rivers in the region.

Where to Go Next from Lakehead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lakehead is located in a region rich in natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it the perfect base to explore nearby destinations and excursions, including:

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: This park is home to some of the most stunning volcanic landscapes in the region, including boiling mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles.
  • Redding: This nearby city is home to many cultural attractions and outdoor activities, including the Sundial Bridge and the Sacramento River trail.
  • Whiskeytown Lake: This lake is home to many beautiful waterfall hikes and swimming spots and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Lakehead is a region rich in natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Lakehead offers something for everyone. With its many scenic drives, hiking trails, and local food and drink scene, Lakehead is the perfect destination for nature lovers and foodies alike. Plan your next trip to Lakehead today and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.