The best cycling routes around Mount Shasta

There are currently 4 touring cycling routes available around Mount Shasta, ranging from easy to difficult. This includes a short, easy loop from Golden Eagle Charter School and more challenging rides like the Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead.

The Mount Shasta region is best for touring cycling from late spring through early fall. During July and early August, meadows explode with wildflowers, offering a beautiful backdrop. Be aware that Mount Shasta is a snow-capped peak, so higher elevation routes may be inaccessible outside of summer months. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, there is an easy touring cycling route suitable for beginners or families. The Bike loop from Golden Eagle Charter School is just over 6 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride. The region also features a shorter, 9-mile loop around Lake Siskiyou that provides a gentle ride through forested areas, though it's not explicitly listed in the current guide routes.

While this guide focuses on day routes, the Mount Shasta region is known for more challenging multi-day options. The Shasta Siskiyou Loop, for example, is a classic bikepacking route that circumnavigates the base of Mount Shasta, offering continuous stunning views and a mix of singletrack, dirt, and gravel roads. For day rides, consider the Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead or the Sisson Meadow loop from Gateway Trailhead, both rated as difficult.

Yes, several loop routes are available. The Lakeside singletrack – Lake Siskiyou loop from Mount Shasta offers a moderate 22.6 km ride. Other loops include the Bike loop from Gateway Trailhead and the Bike loop from Golden Eagle Charter School. The region also features the popular Lake Siskiyou – Mumbo Summit loop and a shorter 9-mile loop around Lake Siskiyou.

The Mount Shasta area is rich in natural beauty. You can explore highlights like Lake Siskiyou, a sparkling reservoir with excellent views of Mount Shasta. The region is also home to impressive waterfalls, including Faery Falls and the trio of beautiful waterfalls along the McCloud River. The Gateway Trail network itself offers scenic riding through diverse landscapes.

Many routes in the Mount Shasta area offer stunning views of the commanding 14,179-foot snow-capped peak. The Mount Shasta Climb (Everett Memorial Highway), though not in this guide, is renowned for consistent grades and stunning views. Routes around Lake Siskiyou also provide excellent vistas of the surrounding mountains and Mount Shasta itself. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like Black Butte Summit, which offers panoramic views.

Parking is generally available at key trailheads and within the towns of Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir, and Weed. For routes starting near the Gateway Trail network, you can typically find parking at the Bunny Flat Trailhead or other designated areas. Always check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

The towns of Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir, and Weed offer various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops. Many touring cycling routes, especially those starting or passing through the town of Mount Shasta, will have convenient access to these services for refreshments and supplies.

The Mount Shasta area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from thick pine forests to volcanic features, and the stunning, continuous views of the snow-capped Mount Shasta. The pristine roadways and relatively light traffic on many routes also contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable cycling experience.

While many outdoor areas in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest are dog-friendly, specific rules can vary by trail and protected area. It's always best to check local regulations for each route or trail section you plan to ride with your dog. Generally, dogs on leash are welcome on many forest roads and multi-use trails like sections of the Great Shasta Rail Trail.

For general touring cycling on roads and established multi-use trails in the Mount Shasta area, special permits are typically not required. However, if you plan to venture into specific wilderness areas, private lands, or participate in organized events, it's advisable to check with the Shasta-Trinity National Forest service or local authorities for any specific permit requirements.