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22 Fun Things to Do in Mount Shasta
👉 Jump to: Best Things | Outdoors | Food & Drink | Sites & Attractions | Winter Activities
Despite being a small mountain town, Mt. Shasta packs a big punch. You’ll find exhilarating climbing adventures, gorgeous alpine lakes, excellent cafes & coffee shops, and so much more.
As a California local and an avid mountain peak chaser, I’ve been on road trips to Mount Shasta multiple times. I’ve successfully summited the 14,180-foot mountain, spent idyllic days writing at cafes in town, and scouted out all the best places to stay in Mt. Shasta.
In this article, I’ll fill you in on some of the best things to do in this gorgeous town. Saddle up and get ready for an adventure!
Best Things to Do in Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta
The highest mountain in Mt. Shasta beckons mountaineers, campers, and skiers alike.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-4511 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Mount Shasta, the town’s namesake, is a stratovolcano sitting at over 14,000 feet tall. It’s home to some of the most epic hikes in California — but the greatest hike is to the top.
Climbing Mount Shasta is a challenging hike with a 7,200-foot ascent to the summit. I recommend trekking up the alpine peak in winter, but only for travelers with experience using crampons and an ice axe. Mount Shasta is climbable in the summer as well but be ready for a steep hike and lots of scree. It’s a challenging endeavor, to say the least.
I summited Mount Shasta via the Avalanche Gulch Route in a single day. I highly recommend camping overnight on the mountain to break up the steep ascent and avoid over-exerting yourself (I may have gotten sick on the climb, but I’ll spare you the details).
Castle Crags State Park
One of the best places to rock climb in the greater Mount Shasta area.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 235-2684 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: $8 parking
Castle Crag State Park is one of the best places to rock climb in California, with a multitude of granite spires, sheer cliff walls, and domes. The climbs range from 20 feet to over 900 feet and include scrambles and proper climbs. There are options for both novice climbers and experts alike.
For hikers, the park has over 28 miles of trails, with the Crags Trail being the most challenging. Crags Trail will give you sweeping forested views as you hike 2,000 feet upwards to the base of Castle Dome. You’ll also get a great view of Mount Shasta in the near distance.
Additionally, there are 76 campsites in the park for those staying overnight.
Shasta Lake
Indulge in water sports at this huge lake famous for boating, fishing, and camping.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: 530-275-7400 | Shasta Lake Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Shasta Lake is the biggest man-made water reservoir in California and is a popular destination for water sports.
Shasta Lake, one of the best California lakes, is perfect for boating and jet skiing. No boat? No problem! Rent one right on the banks of the lake and enjoy a summer afternoon on the water.
Spending a day here gives travelers incredible views of Mount Shasta in the background. You can also spend the night, either on a houseboat (rentals offered by the many marinas in the area) or at one of the lake’s boat-in campgrounds.
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Hundreds of alpine hiking trails await in this Cascade Mountain forest.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 623-2121 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4:30 pm Mon-Fri | Entrance: Free
The Shasta-Trinity National Forest is California’s largest national forest! It covers over 2.2 million acres.
While Mt. Shasta is the forest’s crown jewel, more experienced hikers will want to check out the Trinity Alps. This area of the national forest is home to towering jagged peaks, untouched alpine lakes, and miles of backcountry trails.
Be sure to check out the campgrounds or dispersed camping in the area. Dispersed camping in Mount Shasta usually allows campers to stay for 14-30 consecutive days.
Downtown Mount Shasta
Support local small businesses in Downtown Shasta and check current weather conditions on the mountain from the local gear shop.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-4865 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Downtown Mount Shasta is a great destination for shopping, coffee, and stocking up on mountain gear. Visiting will make you understand why Mount Shasta is an essential stop on any California road trip.
Prior to tackling any Mount Shasta hikes or climbs, I recommend stopping in at The Fifth Season Shop. This downtown gear shop has up-to-date information about the conditions on Mount Shasta, which is helpful for visitors who hope to climb the peak. They also offer guided ascents.
I also recommend Berryvale Grocery Natural Market, where you’ll find everything from organic cacao to all-natural lip balm, local wine, and other snacks.
Outdoor Adventures
Horse Camp
A 720-acre campground reached by an 8,000-foot climb to the base of Mount Shasta.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-4511 | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Horse Camp is a campground on Mount Shasta that is reached by a 3.2-mile out-and-back hike. The Sierra Club owns the campground. It’s a popular jumping-off point for other hikes in the area, like Mt. Shasta, Lake Helen, or the Hidden Valley Route.
Even if you don’t plan on going further than the campground, hiking to Horse Camp is one of the best ways to experience the grandeur of Mount Shasta without having to expend too much energy.
Heart Lake Trail
An easy 3-mile out-and-back trek that takes hikers to a beautiful high-altitude lake.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Heart Lake, reached via the Castle Lake trail, is a 3-mile out-and-back hike with 800 feet of elevation gain.
The trail is relatively off the beaten path. When I hiked to Heart Lake, I only ran into one other person the whole day!
Dogs are welcome on the trail, but beware of wildlife like black bears and mountain lions.
Lake Siskiyou
Go hiking or plan a camping trip at Lake Siskiyou in Mount Shasta.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: $3 per person
The Lake Siskiyou reservoir is only 2.3 miles from Mt. Shasta and is a great spot for panoramic views.
There is ample camping around Lake Siskiyou, including Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. The resort itself offers accommodations, boat rentals, and plenty of other amenities.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a multi-use trail around the perimeter of the lake, lined with picnic tables with views of the domineering Shasta summit.
Mossbrae Falls
A multi-layered waterfall reached by a 3-mile out-and-back trail.
📍 Google Maps | Hours: sunrise-sunset
Mossbrae Falls is a fun 3.0-mile out-and-back hike suited for visitors of all fitness levels. Technically just over the town line in Dunsmuir, the spring-fed waterfall consists of multiple layers of water crashing down. The surrounding area is lush and mossy.
Getting to the falls is a bit tricky, however. Make sure you don’t walk through the Mt. Shasta Retreat cabin site or along the Union Pacific Railroad — this is highly illegal. Park on the north side of Dunsmuir Avenue and walk on the public streets.
Pluto’s Cave
Explore underground lava tubes right outside Mount Shasta.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 842-6131 | Website | Hours: 6 am-8 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Pluto’s Cave is located on the northern outskirts of Mount Shasta in the Klamath National Forest.
This cave features ancient basaltic lava rock and a 1.5-mile round-trip hiking trail. Of course, the trail can be made longer depending on how deep you wish to go into the cave. It’s definitely one of the spookiest things to do in Mt. Shasta!
I would advise all prospective visitors to bring a headlamp or flashlight, as there are bats in the cave.
Black Butte Trail
Hike to the top of a mountain, surrounded by 360-degree views of Mount Shasta.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Black Butte Trail is a 2.5-mile trail from the trailhead to the summit. Panoramic views can be seen from the 6,325-foot summit, including over Mount Shasta city and the Sacramento River to the south.
However, despite being a relatively short trail, it is rather difficult. The steep ascent is rocky and there is no water available along the trail. Black Butte Trail is one of the best things to do for visitors looking for a challenging workout.
Lava Beds National Monument
A national monument featuring multiple lava tubes and volcanic landscapes.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 667-8100 | Website | Hours: (Visitor Center) 9:30 am-4 pm daily | Entrance: $25 per vehicle
Lava Beds National Monument is located on the northeastern edge of Medicine Lake Volcano and is composed of many volcanic landscapes.
Caving is one of the most popular activities at Lava Beds National Monument. Volcanic eruptions on the Medicine Lake shield volcano have created over 800 caves dotting the rugged landscape over the last half-million years. Caving permits are free, but must be picked up at the Visitor Center before you enter a cave.
Hedge Creek Falls
An easily accessible waterfall with a hidden cave behind it.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Hedge Creek Falls is a waterfall in the town of Dunsmuir with refreshingly cool waters. To reach the falls, there is a 0.6-mile trail that is suited for hikers of all fitness levels. Hedge Creek Falls is easier to access than other Mt. Shasta waterfalls.
I highly recommend walking behind the crashing falls to explore the cave behind the cascade. You will get wet, however, so I only advise doing this in the summer so you don’t catch a chill.
Panther Meadows
Hike a short trail to this high-altitude campground right on Mount Shasta.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24 hours | Entrance: Free
Panther Meadows Campground is an alpine campground situated at 7,500 feet with tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet. Hiking to this campground is a great way to experience the majestic Mt. Shasta without having to put in too much hard work.
Panther Meadows Campground is completely free to the public and is first-come, first-served. The trail to reach the site is only 1.4 miles and is one of the best places for spectacular views.
Food & Drink
Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe
Grab a cup of coffee at Mount Shasta’s favorite cafe.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-9701 | Seven Suns Coffee Website | Hours: 6 am-2 pm daily
Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe is a relaxed cafe in Mount Shasta offering exemplary coffee and food. All-day breakfast items include the breakfast bagel sandwich and the Meat Lover’s Burrito, while cobb salad, nachos, and garden wraps are available for lunch.
When the weather is nice, I recommend grabbing a seat in their outdoor section to soak in the fresh air.
Dunsmuir & Mt. Shasta Farmers Markets
Shop for local produce from small-scale farmers at the Dunsmuir and Shasta Farmers Markets.
📍 Google Maps – Dunsmuir, Google Maps – Shasta | Dunsmuir Market Website, Shasta Market Website | Hours: (Dunsmuir) Thurs, 4 – 6:30 pm; (Shasta) Mon, 3:30 – 6 pm | Entrance: Free
Mt. Shasta’s farmers market takes over the downtown main drag every Monday afternoon. The Dunsmuir Farmer’s Market is located just outside of Mount Shasta and takes place every Thursday from 4-7 pm.
Some of the items on offer here include local fresh produce, preserves, and baked goods. It’s a great way to get a taste of the mountains — literally.
Due to extreme weather conditions and heavy snow in the Shasta region, the markets take place from June to October only.
Mount Shasta Brewing Company
Grab some beer and pub grub at this local brewery.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 938-2394 | Website | Hours: 12 – 8 pm daily
Mt. Shasta Brewing Company is located just up the road in the small town of Weed. It’s a fantastic spot to pop in and try one of their brews, made with local spring water. I loved their Hazy IPA, but be sure to try one of their seasonal offerings as well.
The brewery often hosts fun events and themed parties — when I was there, there was a heaven and hell-themed Valentine’s Day event.
Sites & Attractions
Mount Shasta City Park
Relax in the middle of town and drink from fresh spring water refilling stations.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-2494 | Website | Hours: 7 am-9 pm daily | Entrance: Free
The 26 acres of Mount Shasta City Park offer plenty of opportunities for recreation in the middle of town. Trails through the park cross the Sacramento River, and the spring water filling station helps you save money on bottled water while in town!
Mount Shasta City Parks also has a playground for kids, picnic tables, and public buildings for use.
Shasta Sisson Museum
Learn more about the ecological and Indigenous past of Mount Shasta at this interesting museum.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-5508 | Website | Hours: 10 am-4 pm daily; closed Tues-Wed | Entrance: Free
The exhibits at the Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum highlight the adversity of summiting Shasta throughout the years, as well as the ecological history and Indigenous culture of the area.
Common rotating and permanent exhibits include ones on local ecology, local weather phenomena, and the region’s railroad system. For added fun, be sure to check out the museum’s event calendar. There are presentations, tours, and more.
Shasta State Historic Park
Explore the remnants of old Shasta’s mining headquarters from the Gold Rush era.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 243-8194 | Website | Hours: 10 am-4 pm daily; Closed Mon-Wed | Entrance: Free
Mt. Shasta State Historic Park is home to abandoned Gold Rush-era buildings that educate visitors on the history of the Mt. Shasta area. Paying a visit is perfect for families interested in history and abandoned settlements.
In particular, check out the County Courthouse. This building has been entirely restored as it would have looked in 1861, and is filled with historical exhibits and California artwork.
Winter Activities
Mt. Shasta Ski Park
Exercise your love of winter sports at the Mt. Shasta ski resort, one of the best all-natural resorts in the area.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-8611 | Website | Hours: 9 am-4 pm daily | Entrance: Lift tickets start at $99 for adults, $35 for juniors
Mount Shasta Ski Park is one of the best ski resorts in California. It’s perfect for novice skiers who aren’t yet ready to take on backcountry skiing on Mount Shasta.
An all-day lift ticket for adults is $99, and $74 for a half-day, making this far more affordable than other ski resorts in the state. Shasta in the winter is an ideal time to visit, not just for skiing but to experience cheaper hotel prices and fewer crowds as well.
Outdoor Siskiyou Ice Rink
Ring in the holiday season with an ice skating adventure in the middle of the Cascade Mountains.
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (530) 926-1715 | Website | Hours: Seasonal
The outdoor Siskiyou Ice Rink is an entirely outdoor ice skating facility that’s open from roughly November through February. The rink itself is the only National Hockey League-sized outdoor rink in California — it’s 85 feet wide by 200 feet long!
Entering the rink means purchasing a day pass, but ask about season passes and family passes if you envision visiting Mt. Shasta multiple times during the winter.
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You made it to the end of my guide to the best things to do in Mount Shasta! Up next, check out this ultimate list of places to visit in California.
Enjoy the mountains!
