Red Bluff Travel Guide

Planning to visit Red Bluff, California? This comprehensive travel guide contains all the information you need to plan a perfect trip - from where to stay, what to see and do, to the best places to eat and drink.


Introduction to Red Bluff

Located in Tehama County, in the Shasta Cascades of California, Red Bluff is a charming city with a rich history and natural beauty. Situated on the Sacramento River, the town is known for its annual Red Bluff Round-Up, a rodeo event that draws thousands of visitors every year. With its quaint downtown, cultural attractions, and scenic surroundings, Red Bluff is a great destination for travelers looking to experience California’s rural life.

List of Places to Visit in Red Bluff

When visiting Red Bluff, there are plenty of places to explore and things to do.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tehama District Fairgrounds: Known for the annual Red Bluff Round-Up, the Tehama District Fairgrounds also hosts other events throughout the year including car shows and farmer’s markets.

  • Tehama County Museum: Learn about the history of Tehama County at this museum, which features exhibits on the Native American, Pioneer, and Victorian eras.

  • William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park: Visit the restored home of William B. Ide, who served as the first and only president of California’s short-lived Bear Republic.

Natural Attractions of Red Bluff: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sacramento River Trail: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the river on this paved trail, which offers scenic views and plenty of places to stop and relax.

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: A little over an hour’s drive from Red Bluff, this National Park offers hiking, camping, and breathtaking views of Lassen Peak, the largest plug dome volcano in the world.

  • Lake Red Bluff: This man-made lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Red Bluff

  • Sacramento River Trail: This 11-mile paved trail offers scenic views of the river and is popular with both hikers and bikers.

  • Bend/Chico Trail: A scenic 35-mile trail that starts in Red Bluff and passes through the town of Bend and the city of Chico.

  • Mount Shasta: An iconic peak located about 70 miles north of Red Bluff, Mount Shasta offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of experience.

Best Things to Do in Red Bluff: Activities and Tours

  • Red Bluff Round-Up: This annual rodeo event takes place every April and features some of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the country.

  • River Rafting: Enjoy a thrilling ride on the Sacramento River with various guided rafting tours available.

  • Wine Tasting: Visit local vineyards and wineries to sample and learn about the region’s delicious wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Red Bluff

Day 1-2: Explore downtown Red Bluff and visit the Tehama County Museum.

Day 3-4: Take a hike on the Bend/Chico Trail or the Sacramento River Trail and enjoy the natural scenery.

Day 5-6: Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, and take a guided rafting tour on the Sacramento River.

Day 7: Spend a day at Lake Red Bluff and indulge in water sports and picnicking.

Food and Drink Scene of Red Bluff

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tri-Tip Sandwich: A local favorite, tri-tip is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that’s grilled to perfection and served in a sandwich.

  • Fish Tacos: Freshly-caught fish, grilled or deep-fried, wrapped in a tortilla with a variety of toppings.

  • Olive Oil: Red Bluff is known for its olive orchards, which produce high-quality olive oil with unique flavors.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Tehama County is home to several wineries that offer a variety of delicious wines, including zinfandel, syrah, and chardonnay.

  • Coffee: Red Bluff has several cozy cafes that serve specialty coffee and tea.

Where to Stay in Red Bluff: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn at Rolling Hills: A modern and luxurious hotel with golf courses, casinos, and spa facilities.

  • Best Western Antelope Inn & Suites: A family-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.

  • Crystal Motel: A budget-friendly option with clean and spacious rooms.

What to Buy in Red Bluff: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Take home a bottle of locally-produced olive oil, which comes in various flavors and blends.

  • Wine: Tehama County wines make for great gifts and souvenirs.

  • Handmade Crafts: Red Bluff has several artisanal markets, offering unique handmade items like pottery, clothing, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Red Bluff

Red Bluff has a rich western heritage and is known for its annual rodeo event. Visitors are expected to show respect for the local culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Red Bluff

The best time to visit Red Bluff is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot, and winters can be rainy and chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Red Bluff

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Visit local vineyards to try the delicious wines.

  • Take a hike or bike ride in the scenic trails around the town.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture and traditions.

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.

  • Be overly noisy or disruptive.

Safety and Health

Safety in Red Bluff

Red Bluff is a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take the usual precautions, like locking their cars and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Red Bluff

Red Bluff has several medical facilities and pharmacies to cater to any health-related issues that may arise during your trip.

Getting to Red Bluff: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Red Bluff

  • Redding Municipal Airport: Located about 30 miles north of Red Bluff, this is the closest airport to the town.

  • Sacramento International Airport: Located about 120 miles south of Red Bluff, this is a larger airport with more flight options.

Bus Stations Near Red Bluff

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Redding, about 30 miles north of Red Bluff.

  • Amtrak Bus Station: Located in Chico, about 45 miles south of Red Bluff.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to get around Red Bluff and its surroundings.

  • Taxi: Red Bluff has several taxi services available.

How to Get Around in Red Bluff

The best way to get around Red Bluff is to drive or bike, but visitors can also use local taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Red Bluff: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: A stunning natural destination just over an hour from Red Bluff.

  • Mount Shasta: Located about 70 miles north of Red Bluff, this iconic peak offers outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing.

  • Shasta Lake: A popular destination for boating, swimming and watersports and is located approximately 60 miles north of Red Bluff.

Conclusion

Red Bluff is a hidden gem of California, with its scenic surroundings, charming downtown, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing weekend away, Red Bluff has something for everyone.