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Potentially active volcano at an elevation of 14,179 feet, is the second-highest peak in the Cascades and the fifth-highest in the state
How to Get There
From Sacramento (235 mi): Get on I-5 N from I St. Follow I-5 N to W Lake St in Mount Shasta. Take exit 738 from I-5 N. Follow County Hwy A10 to Everitt Memorial Hwy.
Overview
Mount Shasta is a 14,179-foot volcano at the southern end of the Cascade Range, the second-highest peak in the Cascades, towering nearly 10,000 feet above its surroundings and visible from more than 100 miles. It is a popular destination for climbing, skiing and hiking, and is considered sacred by several Native peoples and by spiritual seekers. The town of Mount Shasta and Lake Siskiyou are nearby.
Things to Do
Experience One of California's Most Iconic Mountains
Mount Shasta is a majestic 14,179-foot stratovolcano located in Northern California and is one of the state's most recognizable natural landmarks. Surrounded by alpine forests, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and pristine wilderness, the area attracts hikers, climbers, photographers, anglers, and visitors seeking outdoor adventure and scenic beauty throughout the year.
Explore Mount Shasta City
The charming mountain town of Mount Shasta serves as the gateway to the region's outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy local shops, restaurants, art galleries, and stunning views of the mountain while learning about the area's history, geology, and outdoor culture.
Visit Panther Meadows
Located on the lower slopes of Mount Shasta, Panther Meadows is one of the mountain's most popular destinations. The area features beautiful wildflower meadows, alpine scenery, interpretive trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
See the Headwaters of the Sacramento River
The Sacramento Headwaters Trail in the city of Mount Shasta provides visitors with an opportunity to view the springs that form the beginning of California's longest river. The tranquil setting is popular for walking, photography, and enjoying the area's natural beauty.
Visit Burney Falls Nearby
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a short drive from Mount Shasta and features one of California's most famous waterfalls. Burney Falls plunges 129 feet into a clear pool and is considered one of the state's most spectacular natural attractions.
Enjoy Outdoor Recreation Year-Round
The Mount Shasta region offers exceptional opportunities for hiking, mountain climbing, camping, fishing, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The mountain's diverse landscapes provide recreation opportunities during every season.
Top Trails
Panther Meadows Trail
Length: Approximately 1 mile loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This accessible alpine trail travels through meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers and offers spectacular views of Mount Shasta. It is one of the area's most popular short hikes and is suitable for visitors of all ages.
Heart Lake Trail
Length: Approximately 1.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
A favorite local hike, this trail climbs to a scenic alpine lake with stunning reflections of Mount Shasta. The route offers excellent photography opportunities and beautiful mountain scenery.
Gray Butte Trail
Length: Approximately 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
This hike leads to the summit of Gray Butte, providing panoramic views of Mount Shasta, the Cascades, and surrounding forests. It is one of the best viewpoints in the region.
Mount Shasta Summit Trail (Avalanche Gulch Route)
Length: Approximately 11 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 7,000 feet
Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
This challenging mountaineering route is the most popular ascent of Mount Shasta. Climbers experience glaciers, volcanic terrain, and extraordinary views from one of California's highest peaks. Proper preparation, permits, and mountain conditions should be reviewed before attempting the climb.
Sources: U.S. Forest Service official Mount Shasta and Shasta-Trinity National Forest information, including details on hiking trails, climbing routes, recreation opportunities, wilderness areas, and visitor amenities.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/stnfhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/stnf
Additional information verified through Visit Mount Shasta resources covering Panther Meadows, Heart Lake, Sacramento Headwaters, mountain recreation, scenic attractions, and outdoor activities throughout the Mount Shasta region.
https://www.visitmtshasta.comhttps://www.visitmtshasta.com
This article uses material from the Wikipedia article "Mount Shasta", which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0
