The Town
With a population just under 3,300 and a noticeable lack of chain stores and restaurants, Mount Shasta residents skip the bustle of larger resort areas for a quieter, sometimes spiritual mountain experience. What the town lacks in amenities it makes up for with a relaxed bohemian vibe. The pedestrian-friendly downtown is easy to explore while art galleries and mom-and-pop shops selling artisan goods line the streets. Surrounding the town is an endless forest with hiking trails, lakes and waterfalls that make it an all-seasons haven for outdoor adventure – from skiing to climbing, rafting to fishing – as well as home to all levels of accommodations from wilderness camping to luxury retreat resorts.
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Why Mount Shasta is Different
The incredibly scenic grandeur of the snow-covered 14,179 foot volcanic peak of Mount Shasta looms over the small downtown. Long held as a sacred mountain by Northern California’s Native American people, the city beneath is touched by the large amount of spiritual lore and mythical stories, attracting travelers from all over the world seeking the supposed healing properties of its pristine glacial waters and positive energies. To enrich this theme, local shops offer health foods as wells as spiritual services including shamanic hypnotherapy, aura readings and guided meditations.
Nearest Ski Mountain
Mount Shasta Ski Park
Mount Shasta Ski Park offers two personalities: one a family-friendly, Kodak-worthy ski vacation and the other an adventurous, out-of-bounds backcountry experience.
BEST ADVICE RESTAURANTS NIGHTLIFE AND EVENTS
Lodging
The Mount Shasta Ranch Bed and Breakfast is a rustic ranch-style home with fantastic views of Mount Shasta. Breakfasts are home-cooked and delectable while the nightly cocktail hour is a special treat. Golfers enjoy staying at the Mount Shasta Resort during shoulder seasons where individual cottages line a beautiful golf course with sweeping views of the mountain.
The Best Western Plus Tree House is a convenient and economical option. Located right off of Interstate 5 and within walking distance of grocery stores and restaurants, this is the spot for the last-minute planner and budget traveler. Use the “Explore Mount Shasta’s Best Lodging Deals” box above and right to find the Mount Shasta lodging choices that best fit you.
OFF MOUNTAIN ACTIVITIES POPULAR EVENTS GETTING THERE
Best Advice
Call the Mt. Shasta Chamber of Commerce or visit the website for everything from the Community Calendar to FAQ’s and directions to nearby attractions. Members of the chamber are happy to help you plan your visit and provide advice about making the most of your time in Shasta.
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Restaurants
Aside from a few staple fast food joints, Mount Shasta doesn’t cater to the usual franchise restaurant. Instead, local kitchens offer a taste of northern California Cuisine. Seven Suns whips up some of the best coffee, breakfast and pastries in town. Poncho and Leftkowitz food truck serves the best burritos and sausages in town – hands down. Trinity Café holds its own in upscale dining with a rotating menu of seasonal foods in the traditional wine-country style.
WHY SHASTA IS DIFFERENT NEAREST SKI MOUNTAIN THE SKI TOWN
Nightlife
Though much of the town turns in early, Mount Shasta is still home to a few late night haunts. Enjoy live music by the fire at the Wayside Grill or head over to Roxy’s Vet’s Club for billiards and dancing.
Mount Shasta Lodging
Use the “Explore Mount Shasta’s Best Lodging Deals” box above and right to find Mount Shasta’s best Lodging choices and deals. Lodging choices are pre-ordered by price, but you can enter your own search parameters.
Popular Events
Mount Shasta Ski Park’s New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the best events in town. The lifts turn past midnight for skiing under the lights with live music, torch light parades and fireworks as part of the festivities. Backcountry skiers compete in the Shasta Ascension Randonee Race in late January, a test of skill and endurance. During spring, the Pond Skim Competition at Mount Shasta Ski Park is a party for the books. Compete for best trick or costume, or stay dry and enjoy live music and theatrics from the sidelines.
Off Mountain Activities
During the winter, Castle Lake is popular for ice fishing. Anglers will find the lake home to shiners, brook and rainbow trout and offers a great view the mountain. In town, the Siskiyou Ice Rink offers public skating, skate camps and private sessions. Climbers enjoy Shasta Base Camp for their bouldering gym and can get local info on snow and ice conditions. The Shasta Base Camp also hosts local musicians and artists throughout the season. Shasta Vortex Adventures offers guided tours including snowshoe hikes, treks to sacred areas and backcountry adventures with experienced guides.
By Jenn Sheridan
