Mount Shasta Travel Guide

Our in-depth travel guide to Mount Shasta covers the must-visit places, best activities, local cuisines, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is one of the most prominent landmarks in Northern California, surrounded by beautiful sceneries, outdoor adventures, and cultural sites. Situated in Siskiyou County, in Shasta Cascades, in California, in the United States of America, in North America, it stands at an elevation of 14,179 feet. It is considered a sacred site for the Native American tribes in the area. Today, Mount Shasta is a popular destination for tourists and adventurers from around the world.

List of Places to Visit in Mount Shasta

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, culture buff, or history buff, Mount Shasta has something unique and exciting to offer. Here are the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Siskiyou Arts Museum: Located in the heart of Mount Shasta city, the museum highlights local artists’ works and preserves the history of Siskiyou County.
  • Siskiyou County Museum: An excellent spot to learn about the cultural heritage of Mount Shasta and the surrounding area from the First People period through today.
  • Lake Shastina Golf Resort: Enjoy a relaxing round of golf with magnificent views of Mt. Shasta and the surrounding scenery.

Natural Attractions of Mount Shasta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Shasta Ski Park: It’s a popular winter sports destination with over 425 acres of ski runs and Nordic trails for beginners and experts alike.
  • Lake Siskiyou: Nestled at the base of Mount Shasta, this lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.
  • Castle Crags State Park: A mesmerizing landscape featuring picturesque granite spires and breathtaking hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mount Shasta

With miles and miles of incredible hiking and biking trails, Mount Shasta is an outdoor recreational paradise. Here are the top routes:

  • The Pacific Crest Trail: This world-famous trail runs 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, with a stunning section that traverses Mount Shasta.
  • Black Butte Trail: This 6-mile hike offers a moderate ascent that leads to the top of Black Butte, with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
  • Mount Shasta Summit Trail: This challenging hike leads to the summit of Mount Shasta, covering over 14 miles round trip and an elevation gain of 7,343 feet.

Best Things to Do in Mount Shasta: Activities and Tours

  • Mount Shasta Vortex Tours: A popular tour guide where you can explore the mystical energy surrounding Mt. Shasta through guided meditations, yoga, and spiritual healing seminars.
  • Mount Shasta Board & Ski Park: A perfect destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
  • Shasta Gravity Adventures: The place to go for adrenaline junkies to enjoy thrilling experiences like climbing, bungee jumping, rappelling, and zip-lining.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mount Shasta

Here’s a week-long itinerary to maximize your Mount Shasta adventure:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore downtown Mount Shasta and visit the Siskiyou Arts Museum
Day 2 Go hiking to Castle Crags State Park
Day 3 Take a guided tour with Shasta Vortex Tours
Day 4 Take a snowboarding/skiing lesson at Mt. Shasta Board & Ski Park
Day 5 Take a day trip to Lava Beds National Monument
Day 6 Visit McCloud River Falls and hike the falls
Day 7 Relax by Lake Siskiyou and enjoy the stunning view of Mt. Shasta

Food and Drink Scene of Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta offers various delicious cuisines that will satisfy your cravings. Check out these must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Siskiyou Burger: A burger made of grass-fed beef with Tillamook cheddar, caramelized onion, and bacon.
  • Butte Burger: A vegetarian burger with quinoa, black beans, and roasted vegetables.
  • Sourdough Pizza: A local favorite, with toppings like roasted garlic, black olives, and pepperoni.

Local Beverages

  • Oregon Pinot Noir: A wine known for its dark fruit flavors and earthy undertones, produced in the local wineries of Mt. Shasta.
  • Shasta Spritz: A refreshing cocktail mix of seltzer with grenadine, orange juice, and lemon juice.
  • Hot Cocoa: A must-try beverage after a day of skiing/snowboarding at Mt. Shasta Board & Ski Park.

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

Regardless of your budget, there are several choices of accommodation in Mount Shasta to meet your needs.

  • McCloud Hotel: A historic hotel built in the early 1900s with luxurious accommodations, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
  • Inn at Mount Shasta: A cozy inn with comfortable rooms, a pool, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Hi-Lo Hotel: A budget-friendly option located in downtown Mount Shasta, featuring a hostel-style setup with shared bathrooms and kitchens.

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

Make the most of your trip to Mount Shasta by bringing home some souvenirs and locally made products, including:

  • Crystals and Gemstones: Mount Shasta is known for its crystals, and local shops sell a wide range of crystals and gemstones.
  • Handmade Clothing: Local artisans craft handmade clothing from natural fibers like wool, cotton, and silk.
  • Local Honey: Stop by the local farmers’ market for a jar of raw honey made by local beekeepers.

Local Culture and Customs of Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is a place of spiritual significance for many, with Native American tribes considering it a sacred site. Visitors are encouraged to show respect for the natural surroundings, avoid littering, and observe local traditions.

Best Time to Visit Mount Shasta

The best time to visit Mount Shasta is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and the hiking and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, the winter months (December to March) offer excellent opportunities for winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mount Shasta

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs in Shasta.
  • Leave no trace; avoid littering.
  • Dress appropriately for the season, especially for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Disturb any sacred sites or perform any disrespectful acts.
  • Take advantage of the natural resources or remove any crystals/stones from the area.
  • Approach wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta wilderness is home to many dangers, including unpredictable weather, steep trails, and wildlife. Here are some tips to keep you safe:

  • Follow trail guidelines and safety protocols when hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Keep a safe distance from any wildlife.
  • Always check the weather forecast before heading out on any outdoor activities.

Health in Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta is located at a high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness. Here are some tips to stay healthy:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
  • Acclimate yourself slowly to high altitudes.
  • Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Getting to Mount Shasta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mount Shasta is easy to reach by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Mount Shasta

  • Redding Municipal Airport (RDD)
  • Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)

Bus Stations Near Mount Shasta

  • Greyhound Station in Weed, CA
  • Amtrak Station in Dunsmuir, CA

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Renting a car is the best way to explore the area, and major car rental companies have locations near the airports.
  • Local Tours: Many private tour companies offer daily tours to Mount Shasta, taking care of transportation logistics.

How to Get Around in Mount Shasta

Walking, biking, or driving are the best ways to get around Mount Shasta. There are several bike shops in the area, and rental cars are available at the airports.

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

There are various options to explore nearby destinations or excursions from Mount Shasta, including:

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: A popular destination known for its geothermal features and volcanic landscapes.
  • Trinity Alps Wilderness: A beautiful spot that provides outdoor recreation opportunities like hiking and camping.
  • Ashland, Oregon: A charming town with cultural and artistic events, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural scenery.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a cultural explorer, Mount Shasta has something for everyone. From the stunning views of the mountain, outdoor adventures, cultural history, and local cuisine, your trip to Mount Shasta is sure to be unforgettable. Remember to show respect for the local customs and natural environment and stay safe while enjoying your Mount Shasta adventure.

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