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Siskiyou County

Attractions and Places To See in Siskiyou County - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see in Siskiyou County include a diverse range of natural features and historical sites in Northern California. The region is dominated by Mount Shasta, a prominent stratovolcano, and features extensive lava tubes, numerous waterfalls, and glacial lakes. Visitors can explore Gold Rush-era towns and cultural sites alongside these natural landmarks.

Best attractions and places to see in Siskiyou County

  • The most popular attractions is Bunny Flat Trailhead, a trail that serves as a starting point for many Mount Shasta hiking trails. It is also a popular location for winter activities like sledding and snowshoeing.
  • Another must-see spot is Lake Siskiyou, a lake offering excellent views of Mount Shasta. This large lake is popular for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing, with an excellent loop trail.
  • Visitors also love Middle McCloud Falls, an impressive waterfall. A deep pool below the waterfall invites for swimming, while high cliffs on the western side are used by some cliff jumpers.
  • Siskiyou County is known for its diverse natural features, including lakes, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, alongside historical sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from challenging mountain climbs to family-friendly trails.
  • The attractions in Siskiyou County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 6 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

Bunny Flat Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

While this is the ultimate gateway to Mount Shasta's winter activities, it is also widely used in the summer since it serves as a starting point for five of the nine hiking trails on Mount Shasta. It provides access to Horse Camp, Hidden Valley, and Green Butte Ridge.

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Middle McCloud Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Impressive waterfall deep below the Falls Trail which leads along the rim. A deep pool invites for swimming below the waterfall, while very high cliffs on the western side are used by some fearless cliff jumpers.

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Horse Camp Sierra Club Hut

Highlight • Mountain Hut

Horse Camp is a property on Mount Shasta owned by the nonprofit Sierra Club Foundation. It is a 720-acre (2.9 km2) enclave within the Mount Shasta Wilderness of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest in California, United States. It is located at approximately 7,950 feet (2,420 m) elevation at the lower end of Avalanche Gulch, the most popular climbing route on the mountain.

Horse Camp is accessible from the Bunny Flat trailhead by hiking approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) on a developed trail with an elevation gain of about 950 feet (290 m).

The most notable feature of Horse Camp is the Shasta Alpine Lodge, a climber's hut constructed in 1923. Mostly indigenous materials were used for construction, including volcanic rock and Shasta red fir. The lodge can be used for emergency shelter for climbers. It contains a guest register, a library of mountain books, and displays about Mount Shasta.

Other features of Horse Camp include a freshwater spring, low impact campsites, and a solar-powered composting toilet facility.

The lodge measures about 450 square feet (42 m2), and was financed primarily by a donor named Hall McAllister at a cost of $6,725. A caretaker is on duty during the summer months. The first caretaker (1923–1934) was Joseph Macatee "Mac" Olberman (1862–1946). With the help of volunteers, Olberman built a 950 yard long flagstone paved path leading uphill from Horse Camp to facilitate access to the Avalanche Gulch climbing route. This structure still exists and is known as Olberman's Causeway.

The camp and the lodge are open year round, even when no caretaker is on duty.

Horse Camp is utilized as a mountaineering base camp for ascents of Mount Shasta by Avalanche Gulch, Casaval Ridge, the West Face Gully and other routes on the south and west side of the mountain.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horse_Camp
sierraclubfoundation.org/what-we-fund/horse-camp-mt-shasta

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Castle Lake

Highlight • Lake

This stunning glacial lake is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and even fishing. From here you can climb up to Heart Lake and enjoy some amazing views of Mount Shasta or take Castle Lake Trail all the way to Mount Bradley.

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Lake Siskiyou

Highlight • Lake

Large lake east of the Trinity Alps, with excellent loop trail and surprisingly decent water levels so far.

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Heart Lake

Highlight • Lake

This lake is smaller than Castle Lake and its waters aren't as clear, but with Mount Shasta peeking in the background the views from here are much prettier, and they get even better if you continue walking a bit further.

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Gateway Trail

Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park

Subtle climb from the parking lot followed by a super fun and flowy ride through the forest. It’s a really well maintained MTB trail!

Not too technical or challenging but be careful not to slip since there is quite a bit of dust and sand (depending on the weather I suppose). There are a couple of interesting optional features (jumps etc.) along the trail.

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Mt Shasta summit 🌋 (4321m)

Highlight • Summit

Tallest free standing Cascade volcano in California.
For a winter snowshoe/crampon ascent route via Casaval Ridge and descent via standard Avalanche Gulch route see: komoot.com/tour/9090975
For an AT ski ascent and descent via West Face see: komoot.com/tour/9089213
For the least technical snow-free route via Clear Creek Trail see komoot.com/tour/277653983

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Old Ski Bowl Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

This trailhead is the closest and most popular location to start a climb on Mount Shasta. You can take a short stroll, too, but if you are ambitious enough to summit the mountain or hike above 10,000 feet, you will need to obtain a summit pass. Otherwise you will need a Wilderness permit to enter the Mount Shasta area.

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Etna

Highlight • Settlement

A couple of hearty down-to-earth restaurants around a large parking area at the fork on the north entrance to the little town of Etna

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Tips from the Community

Sheri
September 18, 2025, Castle Lake

They stop maintaining the trail at Little Castle Lake so we didn’t hike to Mt Bradley.

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Javi
May 19, 2023, Heart Lake

This lake is smaller than Castle Lake and its waters aren't as clear, but with Mount Shasta peeking in the background the views from here are much prettier, and they get even better if you continue walking a bit further.

1

0

Javi
May 16, 2023, Castle Lake

This stunning glacial lake is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and even fishing. From here you can climb up to Heart Lake and enjoy some amazing views of Mount Shasta or take Castle Lake Trail all the way to Mount Bradley.

0

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While this is the ultimate gateway to Mount Shasta's winter activities, it is also widely used in the summer since it serves as a starting point for five of the nine hiking trails on Mount Shasta. It provides access to Horse Camp, Hidden Valley, and Green Butte Ridge.

1

0

This trailhead is the closest and most popular location to start a climb on Mount Shasta. You can take a short stroll, too, but if you are ambitious enough to summit the mountain or hike above 10,000 feet, you will need to obtain a summit pass. Otherwise you will need a Wilderness permit to enter the Mount Shasta area.

4

0

Traveler
July 30, 2022, Lake Siskiyou

Large lake east of the Trinity Alps, with excellent loop trail and surprisingly decent water levels so far.

1

0

Traveler
February 7, 2021, Etna

Biggest town near this section of the PCT, with post office and several general stores for food and resupply, excellent restaurants, and some historic architecture.

1

0

Traveler
February 7, 2021, Etna

A couple of hearty down-to-earth restaurants around a large parking area at the fork on the north entrance to the little town of Etna

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural landmarks should I visit in Siskiyou County?

Siskiyou County is rich in natural wonders. You can explore the majestic Mount Shasta, a prominent stratovolcano, or visit the extensive Lava Beds National Monument with its numerous lava tubes. Other highlights include picturesque waterfalls like Middle McCloud Falls, and stunning glacial lakes such as Lake Siskiyou and Castle Lake. Don't miss the towering granite spires of Castle Crags State Park or the unique Sacramento River Headwaters in Mount Shasta City Park.

Are there any historical sites or museums to explore in Siskiyou County?

Yes, Siskiyou County offers several historical and cultural sites. Historic Yreka, with its Gold Rush-era buildings in the West Miner Street Historic District, is a must-see. The Siskiyou County Museum in Yreka provides insights into the region's past. You can also visit the Tulelake Segregation Center, a significant WWII Japanese-American internment site, or Captain Jack's Stronghold within Lava Beds National Monument, a Modoc War site. The Sisson Museum & Hatchery in Mt. Shasta also offers exhibits on local history and culture.

What activities are available for families in Siskiyou County?

Families will find plenty to do! Many lakes like Lake Siskiyou and Castle Lake are popular for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. The easy access to Middle McCloud Falls makes it a great family outing. The Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery, the oldest trout hatchery west of the Mississippi, is open to the public for feeding fish. In winter, Bunny Flat Trailhead is a popular spot for sledding and snowshoeing.

Where can I find waterfalls in Siskiyou County?

Siskiyou County is home to several beautiful waterfalls. The McCloud River features three accessible waterfalls: Upper, Middle, and Lower McCloud Falls, with Middle McCloud Falls being particularly stunning. You can also visit Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir, which offers a unique experience of walking behind the waterfall, or the scenic Faery Falls near Mount Shasta. For routes to these, check out the Waterfall hikes in Siskiyou County guide.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?

Beyond sightseeing, Siskiyou County offers extensive outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs on Mount Shasta. Lakes provide opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The region is also popular for road cycling, mountain biking, and bird watching in areas like Klamath National Forest. For detailed routes, explore the Hiking in Siskiyou County or Road Cycling Routes in Siskiyou County guides.

Are there opportunities for hiking Mount Shasta?

Yes, Mount Shasta is a prime destination for hiking and mountaineering. The Bunny Flat Trailhead serves as a primary starting point for many trails, including routes to Horse Camp, Hidden Valley, and Green Butte Ridge. For more challenging ascents, the Mt Shasta summit 🌋 (4321m) is a significant goal for experienced climbers. You can find specific routes like the Mount Shasta via Avalanche Gulch Route in the Hiking in Siskiyou County guide.

Can I explore lava tubes in the area?

Absolutely. The Lava Beds National Monument is a major draw, featuring over 800 lava tubes, with more than 20 accessible for exploration. Notable caves include Skull Cave, Golden Dome, and Sunshine Cave. For a shorter cave experience, Pluto's Cave near the town of Weed also offers a lava tube to explore.

What are some popular lakes for recreation in Siskiyou County?

Siskiyou County boasts several beautiful lakes perfect for recreation. Lake Siskiyou is popular for swimming, kayaking, and offers excellent views of Mount Shasta, along with a loop trail. Castle Lake, a stunning glacial lake, is ideal for hiking, camping, and fishing, with trails leading to Heart Lake and Mount Bradley.

What winter activities are available in Siskiyou County?

During winter, Siskiyou County transforms into a snowy playground. The Mt. Shasta Ski Park and Mt. Shasta Nordic Center offer downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing. Bunny Flat Trailhead is a popular spot for sledding and snowshoeing, providing access to winter trails on Mount Shasta.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about Siskiyou County's attractions?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and diverse outdoor opportunities. The majestic views of Mount Shasta, especially from Lake Siskiyou, are a highlight. The unique experience of walking behind Hedge Creek Falls and the impressive sight of Middle McCloud Falls are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the variety of trails, from family-friendly walks around lakes to challenging mountain climbs.

What is the best time of year to visit Siskiyou County?

Siskiyou County offers attractions year-round. Summer and early fall are ideal for hiking, water activities on the lakes, and exploring waterfalls. Spring brings wildflowers and pleasant temperatures for outdoor adventures. Winter is perfect for snow sports at Mt. Shasta Ski Park and snowshoeing around Bunny Flat Trailhead.

Are there any easy or short walks with good views?

Yes, there are several options for easy walks with scenic views. The trail around Lake Siskiyou offers excellent views of Mount Shasta. The path to Middle McCloud Falls is easily accessible and provides impressive waterfall views. You can also find short trails in Mount Shasta City Park, which is home to the Sacramento River Headwaters and offers pleasant walks with mountain vistas.

Where can I find Gold Rush-era history in Siskiyou County?

To immerse yourself in Gold Rush-era history, visit Historic Yreka. Its West Miner Street Historic District is a national historic district filled with well-preserved buildings and businesses from that period. The Siskiyou County Museum in Yreka also provides extensive exhibits on the region's gold mining past, along with other aspects of its history.

Are there any unique places to stay or visit related to the railroad?

Yes, the quaint railroad town of Dunsmuir features the Dunsmuir Historic Commercial District. For a truly unique experience, consider staying at the Railroad Park Resort, which offers overnight accommodations in historic railcars. The Montague Railroad Depot Museum also showcases railroad artifacts and the history of Montague, appealing to railway enthusiasts.

Most popular routes in Siskiyou County

Hiking in Siskiyou County

Most popular attractions in Siskiyou County

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Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:

Mt. Shasta WildernessKlamath National ForestMount ShastaCastle Crags WildernessMccloudWeedDunsmuirRussian Wilderness

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