Some of California’s greatest natural treasures lie upstate in the Shasta Cascade region – an outdoor-lover’s paradise named after majestic Mount Shasta and the dramatic Cascade mountain range. Here, wide-open landscapes, volcanic terrain, forested trails and crystal-clear lakes offer an enticing alternative to the state’s better-known parks.
Volcanic landscapes
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a compelling, lesser-visited alternative to Yellowstone. It’s home to around 40 volcanoes, including Lassen Peak. Hike to the 10,457-foot peak for panoramic views and sunsets, wander the boardwalks of Bumpass Hell – the park’s largest hydrothermal area – or choose from 150 miles of hiking trails.
Lassen is also dotted with around 200 alpine lakes, including Manzanita Lake, where clients can kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard. In spring, meadows are sprinkled with wildflowers.
A two-hour drive north leads to Lava Beds National Monument, where an otherworldly landscape of undulating lava flows and more than 800 lava tube caves awaits. Above ground, take the easy 1.5-mile trail to Schonchin Butte, a cinder cone offering sweeping views of the surrounding lava fields, or stroll to Petroglyph Point, one of California’s largest Native American rock art sites.
History buffs will appreciate Captain Jack’s Stronghold, a labyrinth used as a hideout during the Modoc War.
Lakeside lounging
Once a Gold Rush mining town, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area combines outdoor adventure with fascinating history. Clients can pan for gold (permit required), visit the Tower House Historic District to explore mine ruins, or hit the trails on foot, mountain bike or horseback. Waterfall hikes are a highlight, including the triple-tiered Boulder Creek Falls, which cascades for 138 feet through dense forest.
Whiskeytown Lake’s 36 miles of shoreline are ideal for relaxing swims or sailing, fishing and windsurfing. Book bird-watching enthusiasts onto an early-morning ranger-led kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour to spot bald eagles, osprey, herons and migratory birds.
Gold Rush history
Learn more about the fascinating role played by Chinese migrants in early California history at Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, where you’ll find the Temple of the Forest Beneath the Clouds. Built in 1874 after a fire destroyed the original 1853 structure, it’s California’s oldest continuously used Chinese temple.
Exhibits include photographs, mining tools, weapons and other artefacts used in the 1854 Tong War – a series of violent disputes between rival Chinese factions. The site offers valuable context on the thousands of Chinese migrants who arrived during the Gold Rush and set up thriving communities across northern California. The park is ideal for clients seeking authentic outdoor and cultural experiences.
Waterfalls and hikes
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a haven for restorative forest walks and striking scenery. Its crown jewel is the 129-foot Burney Falls, once dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” by President Theodore Roosevelt. 100 million gallons of water cascade daily from the volcanic cliff face. In summer, mist from the falls sparkles in rainbow hues, while russet and terracotta leaves reflect in the waterfall’s pool in autumn.
Birdlife is abundant, from black swifts flitting in and out of the falls to feed their young, to bald eagle soaring overhead. Meanwhile, the surrounding forests are home to California ground squirrels, porcupines, coyotes and gray foxes.
