22 Best & Fun Things To Do in Lake Shasta (CA)

Mount Shasta is a small settlement in northern California located on the southwest flank of the beautiful peak of the same name. Mount Shasta, at 14,163 feet, is undoubtedly the most beautiful peak in the Cascade Range, with a snow-capped summit and steep elevation. On clear days, this beacon of mountain magnificence may be seen from more than 200 miles away.

The mountain is the primary attraction in Mt. Shasta City. From local hiking trails to stunning views, Shasta is present in nearly every activity. This visual prominence has drawn cultures to the mountain for thousands of years. Today, it remains an attraction for individuals captivated by nature and outdoor activities.

Mt. Shasta attracts both adventurers and spiritual seekers. The mountain has long been considered a spiritual location to visit and a source of great positive energy. Visitors go far to discover the mountain’s mystical vortexes and spiritual locations. Several downtown shops and nice residents assist guests with their spiritual journeys.

Mount Shasta is only one of the many world-class recreation opportunities in this Northern California region. The city is surrounded by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the state’s largest. Within this 2.2-million-acre forest, there are surrounding marvels such as the Trinity Alps and flowing waterfalls.

Discover your positive vacation vortex with our list of the best things to do in Lake Shasta, California.

Things To Do in Lake Shasta, CA

1. Explore Shasta-Trinity National Forest

The outdoors is a key draw while visiting Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The community is surrounded by California’s largest national forest, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, which covers over 2.2 million acres and serves as an outdoor playground for a variety of activities.

Camping, fishing, hiking, and waterfall viewing are common activities in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. In the winter, the public property transforms into a popular destination for skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest’s gorgeous landscape is easily accessible from town. The 14-mile Everitt Memorial Highway enters the forest directly from the town’s edge. Campgrounds and trailheads provide days of exploration on Shasta’s southern flank.

Address: Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

2. Shasta Lake

One of the most popular things to do in Shasta Lake is to participate in water sports and leisure activities. Shasta Lake is a reservoir created by building the Shasta Dam on the Sacramento River.

Shasta Lake is California’s largest reservoir and a crucial component of the state’s water supply system. Its formation has had a considerable impact on water management, agriculture, power generation, and recreational activities in the region.

The lake’s stunning blue waters and surrounding natural beauty make it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, water sports, fishing, and swimming.

Shasta Lake’s huge stretch of pure water makes it a popular destination for boaters. Whether you possess a boat or rent one, you may cruise the lake, discover hidden coves, and locate private areas for swimming and picnicking.

Renting a houseboat is a unique way to explore Shasta Lake. Spend your days sunbathing on the deck, fishing off the back, and relaxing with friends and family while taking in the serene beauty of the lake.

Address: Main Street, Shasta Lake, CA 96019.

3. Lake Shasta Caverns

Visiting the Lake Shasta Caverns is one of the top things to do in Shasta Lake. It’s an unforgettable adventure that takes you inside a massive cave to examine intricate limestone formations.

Lake Shasta Caverns is a National Natural Landmark located around 900 feet above Lake Shasta. The caves are unique and massive and can only be visited on a guided tour, which may be arranged through their official website.

The guided tour lasted around two hours and included a boat journey on Lake Shasta to reach the caverns, a bus excursion, and a group tour of the tunnels.

Address: 20359 Shasta Caverns Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051

4. Shasta Dam

Visiting Shasta Dam is one of the free activities in Lake Shasta and provides breathtaking views of the massive concrete structure that holds back Shasta Lake. Explore the Shasta Dam Visitor Center to learn about the dam’s history, water management, and hydropower generation.

Panoramic views of the power plant and the Sacramento River from the top of Shasta Dam.

You can enjoy a self-guided tour by walking along the dam’s top road. Enjoy the views of Lake Shasta from the dam’s top, learn about its historical significance, and see the design of this critical water management and power generation structure.

Guided top-of-the-dam excursions are provided, with the tour leader providing information about the dam’s history, engineering, and powerhouse operations.

Address: Shasta State Historic Park, 15312 W. Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

5. Hike the Black Butte Trail

The Black Butte Trail is among the top treks in the Lake Shasta area. This trail, located in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, provides hikers with a fantastic opportunity to explore the splendor of northern California’s wilderness. The path is a moderate four-mile round trip with an elevation gain of around 1,700 feet.Â

As you trek up, you will pass through thick pine and oak forests, with occasional glimpses of the neighboring mountains. The trek becomes steeper as you reach the mountain, but the vista at the top makes it all worthwhile. From the top of Black Butte, you will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Shasta Lake, Mount Shasta, and the surrounding valleys. On clear days, the views are magnificent.

The trail is popular due to its short length, which makes it accessible to a large number of hikers. It’s ideal for individuals who want to experience some adventure without committing to a long, tough hike.

Address: Black Butte Trail, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

6. Sundial Bridge

The Sundial Bridge in Redding is located at Turtle Bay Exploration Park and spans the Sacramento River. This revolutionary pedestrian bridge has a distinctive design, with a glass deck supported by a single white pylon whose shadow serves as a working sundial.

Aside from its functional purpose, the Sundial Bridge provides spectacular views of the Sacramento River and Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

There are various scenic walking trails here, including the Sacramento River Trail. There is a little rocky spot beneath the bridge that allows you to get closer to the river. My kids adored playing on the riverbanks.

During the summer, daytime temperatures in Redding can reach 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so evenings are likely the best time to explore Sundial Bridge.

Address: Sacramento River Trail, Redding, CA 96001, USA

7. Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Turtle Bay Museum

Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Museum are located near the Sundial Bridge in Redding, California. Turtle Bay Exploration Park is an excellent family destination, with interactive exhibits and outdoor spaces that highlight the region’s natural beauty.

The Turtle Bay Museum, located within the park, provides information on local history and ecology. The museum features both permanent and changing exhibits, as well as special events held throughout the year. Families will enjoy the numerous animal, bird, and butterfly exhibits.

As you tour the park, you’ll come across well-kept botanical gardens, scenic walking routes, a children’s playground, and the historic Sundial Bridge that crosses the Sacramento River.

Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, CA 96001, USA

8. Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta Peak is frequently seen when going to Shasta Lake and along I-5 to Oregon. On a clear day, the snow-covered peak is easily visible! Mount Shasta is approximately a 45-minute drive from Shasta Lake. Mt. Shasta’s towering peak, calm forests, and attractive paths make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. It is an excellent hiking location in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Consider climbing Mount Shasta for some exhilarating hikes. The Old Ski Bowl provides amazing views of Mount Shasta and surrounding peaks. If that seems too tough, consider the Greenway trails at the mountain’s base. They offer a softer approach while preserving the breathtaking views.

Address: 1000 Siskiyou Lake Blvd., Mount Shasta, CA 96067

9. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park provides an opportunity to see breathtaking volcanic landscapes and is only an hour’s drive from Shasta Lake.

Lassen National Park in California is a lesser-known but hidden gem. There are several types of volcanoes here, including cinder cones, shields, stratovolcanoes, and lava domes.

At Lassen, there are steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and vibrant hot springs. The park has magnificent meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and gorgeous hiking routes. The most popular hike here is Bumpass Hell Trail, which features geothermal wonders. This hike has a recently constructed boardwalk route that allowed us to get much closer to the geothermal areas.

Address: 300 Pine Street, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067Â

10. Subway Cave Lava Tube

The Subway Cave Lava Tube is an interesting attraction in Lassen National Forest that is free to see near Shasta Lake. It’s located at Old Station on Highway 89, just north of the intersection of Highways 44 and 89. It is only a 15-minute drive from Manzanita Lake and around an hour from Shasta Lake.

Inside the cave, there is a trail that loops for nearly a third of a mile. It’s a good idea to bring flashlights or headlamps because the inside is dark. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended because the ground is rocky.

Address: Old Station, CA 96071, United States

11. Whiskeytown Lake

Whiskeytown Lake is a hidden gem for recreational water activities located around 30 minutes from Shasta Lake.

The lake is crystal clear and gorgeous, surrounded by mountains with trees, hiking trails, and waterfalls. There are various hiking paths in the region. Some pathways lead up the hills, providing a spectacular view of the lake from above.

The main recreational activities include boating, swimming, and fishing. If you enjoy fishing, there are various sorts of fish in the lake, including trout and bass. Find a comfortable position near the shoreline, cast your line, and enjoy the quiet while you wait for a nibble.

12. McCloud Falls

McCloud Falls is a sequence of three spectacular waterfalls in Northern California’s Shasta Trinity National Forest, about an hour north of Shasta Lake. The McCloud Falls hiking trail is approximately 2 miles one way from the Lower Falls to the Upper Falls and 4 miles round trip.

When you arrive, you’ll notice well-maintained pathways leading to the three waterfalls. Lower Falls is the first in the series and provides a great setting for picnicking and leisure by the stream.

The hike to Middle Falls is brief but very worthwhile. The climb from Middle Falls to Upper Falls involves some elevation, and the Upper Falls are quite lovely.

Address: Upper Fall Rd, McCloud, CA 96057, USA

13. Circle Lake Siskiyou on the Lake Siskiyou Trail

Lake Siskiyou, located less than three miles southwest of downtown, is a vacation destination in and of itself. Tourist amenities like the lake, offering a variety of activities and lodging options. The lake is becoming increasingly popular throughout the summer, and it is the site of several long-standing family holidays.Â

The Lake Siskiyou Trail is a popular route for walking, running, and cycling. This seven-mile paved walk around the lake includes a picturesque crossing via the Wagon Creek pedestrian bridge. The lake also borders Shasta-Trinity National Forest, which offers various trailheads for exploration. This list of hiking paths includes the high-alpine Castle Lake, which is accessible by a seven-mile drive up and into the forest.

Address: 2400 W A Barr Rd., Mount Shasta, CAÂ

14. Discover the Headwaters at Mount Shasta City Park

Mount Shasta City Park, a mile north of downtown, offers a lovely public location to spend the day. Big Springs, also known as the Upper Sacramento River’s Headwaters, is a central feature of the park. Crystal-clear water that has journeyed underground from Mount Shasta rises into the light. A paved observation area enables close inspection of the spring.

The park is a lovely spot to visit on a nice day. A vast, green, grassy area accommodates many forms of lawn activities, and a neighboring playground is a popular destination for small children. The park also features several picnic seats and reservable picnic shelters scattered around the lawn’s edge.

Address: 1315 Nixon Road, Mt. Shasta, CaliforniaÂ

15. Stroll around Downtown Mt. Shasta

Schedule some time away from adventures to visit downtown Mt. Shasta. This little region is lined with local stores, restaurants, and galleries, as well as breathtaking mountain vistas. This neighborhood is enjoyable to explore on foot, with a few public parking lots where you can leave your car.

Mt. Shasta Boulevard is the major thoroughfare for exploring downtown. The Fifth Season outdoor store and Mei Drucker Art Gallery are two famous establishments in the region. Downtown is also the place to go for metaphysical and spiritual products and advice. Many of these resources are available at places such as Soul Connections and the Crystal Matrix Gallery.Â

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16. Hedge Creek Falls

These ever-changing landscapes have become synonymous with adventure in Siskiyou County, and they are popular year-round. Some waterfalls need a brief trek, while others have parking close.

Hedge Creek Falls is one of the first places to visit near Mount Shasta. This breathtaking waterfall is located south of town along Interstate 5, near Dunsmuir. The 30-foot waterfall cascades from a basalt cliff face and is only a short walk from the parking area. Hedge Creek is a popular pitstop year-round due to its easy access and proximity to the freeway.

For those willing to go a little further, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway passes through several additional waterfalls. A set of such waterfalls can be found along the McCloud River, about 20 miles southeast of Mt. Shasta. Burney Falls located an hour away from town at the end of a picturesque byway, is often regarded as the crown gem of northern California’s waterfalls.

Address: 1107 Ream Avenue Mt. Shasta, CAÂ

17. Discover history at the Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum

The Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum, located across Interstate 5 from downtown, provides an interesting look into the region. This non-profit museum is located next to the historic Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery, built in 1888. The museum itself is housed in ancient fish hatchery facilities.

The museum is significantly larger than it appears from the outside. And the numerous intricate and detailed exhibitions provide a worthwhile visit. A few of the topics on the show include the region’s native cultures, the town’s rich history, and a special exhibit devoted to lenticular clouds.

Plan to spend about two hours at the museum and grounds. During most of the summer, the adjacent fish hatchery provides public tours, and a nearby grassy area with picnic tables is ideal for an outside dinner. Down the road, the Elsa Rupp Nature Trail provides a brief but peaceful trek through the woods.

Address: 1 N Old Stage Road, Mt. Shasta, California

18. Explore the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

The Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area is a big and diversified park where visitors can explore both land and sea. This recreation area, located near Whiskeytown Lake and Lake Shasta, is popular among outdoor lovers. It is home to hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails, stunning panoramas, and clear lakes.

The area has a rich history. It was the site of the Trinity River Gold Rush in the 1850s, and some historic landmarks still exist. Visitors can see the spectacular Whiskeytown Waterfall or enjoy a boat ride on Whiskeytown Lake. The area’s unique ecosystem allows for wildlife viewing, with various types of birds and animals to be seen along the paths.

The recreation area also offers campers, which are ideal for individuals who want to spend more time in nature. This gorgeous park has something for everyone, whether you want to go hiking, swimming, fishing, or simply have a picnic by the lake.

Address: Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, 14430 Highway 299 West, Whiskeytown, CA 96095

19. Take Photos at the Lake Shasta Dam Overlook

The Shasta Dam Overlook is one of the most stunning views in the area. Located along the picturesque pathways around the lake, the viewpoint provides panoramic views of Shasta Lake and the surrounding mountains. Whether you visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, the vista is breathtaking.

From this vantage point, you can view the lake’s deep blue waters against a backdrop of undulating hills and the majestic Mount Shasta in the distance. The clean skies and tranquil scenery make it an ideal location for photographers or anyone who appreciates photographing gorgeous landscapes.

The overlook is easily accessible by car, and there are areas to park and enjoy the views. Many travelers come here to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. It’s also a favorite picnic spot, where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

If you’re visiting Lake Shasta, make sure to stop at the Lake Shasta Dam Overlook. It is one of the best spots to enjoy the area’s natural splendor.

Address: Lake Shasta Overlook, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

20. Spend Time at Shastice Park

Shastice Park, located on the northeast edge of town, is a beautiful municipal park with a mountain backdrop. A bit less than half of its 38 acres have been developed, with groomed lawns and neighborhood attractions. Some of its attractions include a skate park, an off-leash dog area, and many picnic areas.

In the winter, Shastice is home to the outdoor Siskiyou Ice Rink. The park also hosts various intramural athletic leagues, featuring tennis facilities, pickleball courts, and a lighted softball field. This wide grassland lies behind the Mt. Shasta Library and Sisson Elementary School. It’s a short walk through this 7.5-acre meadow in the heart of town, but it provides a tranquil reprieve nonetheless. The principal path follows a boardwalk trail with benches.

Address: 800 Rockfellow Dr, Mt Shasta, CA 96067, USA

21. Camp at Castle Crags State Park

Castle Crags State Park is located 20 minutes south of Mt. Shasta and shares borders with the large Castle Crags Wilderness of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. And it provides an auditorium-like vista of the huge eponymous pinnacles. These 6,000-foot peaks form a beautiful jagged crown, demonstrating why Castle Crags is one of California’s top state parks.

Along with breathtaking views of Castle Crags, the state park provides several days of recreation. The area is traversed by more than 28 miles of paths, including the Pacific Crest Trail, which is across the country. Vista Point is a popular trailhead with a vista, and the Crags Trail provides access to the breathtaking Castle Dome.

The state park also offers one of the greatest campgrounds near Mt. Shasta. Many of the 76 basic sites available are located along the Sacramento River, which runs through the park. This rapid river also attracts anglers from all across the region. The state park accommodates RV and tent campers alike.

Address: 20022 Castle Creek Rd, Castella, CA 96017, United States

22. Visit the Shasta Lake Visitor Center

The Shasta Lake Visitor Center is an excellent starting place for anyone visiting the area. It contains an abundance of information about the lake, its history, and the surrounding area. Located near the Shasta Dam, the center is a good resource for people interested in learning more about local animals, recreation, and conservation activities.

Inside the Visitor Center, you will find informative exhibits, maps, and brochures. The staff is courteous and educated, and they can come up with ideas for activities near the lake. If you’re new to the area, they recommend hiking routes, beautiful sites, and local attractions.

The center also offers a modest gift shop where you may purchase items to commemorate your visit. Visitors can also learn about the Shasta Dam and its importance in the region’s water supply and electrical generation. The Shasta Lake Visitor Center is a must-see for those looking to make the most of their trip.

Address: Shasta Lake Visitor Center, 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019

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Conclusion

Shasta Lake is a diverse site that offers a variety of leisure activities, including boating, fishing, and water sports. From exploring limestone tunnels to admiring the beautiful Burney Falls, the region has natural delights that will leave you in amazement.

Nearby attractions like Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay in Redding, as well as Lassen Volcanic National Park, round out the experience, making Shasta Lake one of my favorite spots for adventure and leisure away from the masses.

Whether you prefer the outdoors or peaceful vistas, I am confident you will find something to enjoy at Shasta Lake.