From I-5, nearing Redding, don’t miss the new Sundial Bridge, an
engineering marvel drawing curious bridge design enthusiasts. Head north
to Lake Shasta where many families spend a week or two each year in
cabins or on houseboats enjoying the forested banks and cool waters of
the reservoir.
Back on I-5, stop at Castle Crag’s State Park to view or hike through
these dramatic granite crags. Afterwards, head towards Mt.
Shasta, the mountain peak that dominates the entire region – take the
road to the top for the view and the trails.
SIDETRIP: Take Highway 89 to McCloud, a historic mill town, and the McCloud River Loop, a short nature drive.
From Mt. Shasta, head north on I-5 to Weed, turning off at Edgewater to
loop south in the Klamath National Forest to Highway 3, a gorgeous
stretch of road all the way to Clair Eagle Lake and the Trinity
Alps. The route is so beautiful, it is named - officially, it is
the Trinity Heritage National Scenic Byway).
Just before Weaverville, stop at the Joss House to see the oldest
Chinese temple in California and then head into town to spend some time
wandering this beautifully isolated place. Autumn is especially
nice – lots of fall colors.
SIDETRIP: At Hwy 299, head towards Junction City to follow the
Trinity River as it winds through forests on the way to the ocean.
At 299, head east towards Whiskeytown Lake or a stop at Shasta Historic State Park.
SIDETRIP: From I-5, near Red Bluff, take Highway 36 to the east towards Paynes Creek for excellent seasonal bird watching.
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