If you’re looking for big mountain views, secret swimming spots, and more waterfalls than you can count on one hand, this road trip is calling your name.
Shasta and Siskiyou County in Northern California are packed with the kind of places that make you stop the car, grab your phone, and say “okay, this is the spot.”
We’re talking epic hikes, chill lakes and tiny towns with some serious charm—basically, all the good stuff.
Whether you’ve got a weekend or a full week to explore, this route is full of wow moments, easy detours, and a whole lot of “why haven’t I been here before?”
1. Lake Shasta Caverns & Lake Shasta
Lake Shasta Caverns is a crazy cool underground cave system tucked into a mountain on the edge of Shasta Lake in Northern California, about 20 minutes north of Redding.
You’ll hop on a catamaran across the lake, then ride a bus up a steep mountain road before heading deep into limestone caves packed with wild stalactites, flowstones, and other twisty rock formations.
Right next door, Lake Shasta is the biggest reservoir in California, famous for its houseboat parties, glassy blue water, and four massive arms.
It’s perfect for swimming, fishing, or just soaking up the views.
2. Sundial Bridge, Turtle Bay Exploration Park
Next up: Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay Exploration Park, right in the heart of Redding, and yep—it’s actually a working sundial.
This sleek, bright-white bridge stretches across the Sacramento River and was designed by a fancy Spanish architect, making it one of the coolest photo ops in Northern California.
Just steps away, Turtle Bay has hands-on science exhibits, a butterfly house, trails that wind through a peaceful botanical garden, and even animals like porcupines and parrots you can meet up close.
3. Burney Falls
About an hour and 15 minutes northeast of Redding, you’ll hit Burney Falls—and trust me, this waterfall does not mess around.
It drops 129 feet straight down, but what makes it wild is how the water also gushes straight out of the rock face from underground springs, like a surprise water show nature just decided to throw.
The short hike to the base is super easy, and once you’re down there, the mist feels amazing on a hot day and the sound is loud in the best way.
4. McCloud Falls
If you’re craving more waterfall action, McCloud Falls is another great stop—featuring Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls, three epic drops along the super clear McCloud River.
You can drive right up to all three or hit the easy 4-mile round-trip trail that connects them, with plenty of spots to stop and snap pics.
Middle Falls is the showstopper, with a wide curtain of water that’s perfect for watching—or taking a refreshing swim at the base if you’re up for it.
Just keep in mind that jumping isn’t recommended because of hidden underwater hazards.
5. Hedge Creek Falls
Just when you think you’ve seen all the waterfalls, Hedge Creek Falls shows up with a fun little twist—you can actually walk behind it.
It’s a quick 0.6-mile round-trip trail right off I-5 in the town of Dunsmuir, and it leads to a small but mighty waterfall that spills over a rocky ledge with a hidden cave tucked behind the curtain.
It’s super easy to get to, the mist feels awesome on a hot day, and the view of Mt. Shasta peeking through the trees on your way back is seriously photo-worthy.
6. Mount Shasta
Just up the road, the town of Mount Shasta is your go-to basecamp for all things mountain magic—and yes, that giant snow-capped peak towering overhead is the real Mount Shasta.
This massive stratovolcano stands over 14,000 feet tall and totally steals the show, whether you’re hiking, snowboarding, or just grabbing a coffee in town and staring at it in awe.
The town itself is small but super charming, with crystal shops, cozy cafés, and local spots like Black Bear Diner that’ll keep you fueled for whatever mountain adventure you’re chasing.
7. Lake Siskiyou
Just a few minutes from downtown Mount Shasta, Lake Siskiyou is the chill-out spot you’ve been looking for—think swimming, paddling, and lazy afternoons with a mountain view that looks like a postcard.
There’s a super fun floating bridge you can walk across in summer, plus a 6.5-mile trail that loops around the whole lake if you’re feeling a scenic stroll (or bike ride).
In the warmer months, you can rent kayaks or grab an ice cream from the snack shack by the beach—it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of waterfall chasing and mountain exploring.
8. Castle Lake
Tucked high in the mountains about 20 minutes past Lake Siskiyou, Castle Lake feels like this secret hideaway where the water is crystal clear and the views are next-level.
It’s a glacial lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and tall pines, and if you’re up for a short but steep hike, the trail to Heart Lake above it gives you one of the best panoramas of Mount Shasta you’ll find anywhere.
People come here to swim, paddleboard, picnic, or just chill on the rocks—but fair warning, that water stays icy cold even in July, so dip in if you dare.
Related Posts
