If you’ve been thinking about exploring Siskiyou, spring break is the perfect time of year to travel through the area. I’d suggest planning a long weekend trip because it will give you extra time to wander through cute small towns and see the sights.
It won’t be possible to see everything during your spring break because Siskiyou is one of the largest counties in California. However, if you take day trips while you’re in Siskiyou, you’ll be able to visit more places than you expect. To make that happen, I’d encourage you to stay in Yreka, CA because the community is cute, welcoming and geographically it’s a perfect mid-point to go on adventures.
Since there is so much to experience in the region, I thought it would be fun to share a sample itinerary to help you plan your spring break trip. Use my suggestions below as a guide, and have fun dreaming up your Siskiyou themed adventure!
Recommended Itinerary for a Spring Break:
3 Days in Siskiyou
Lodging
Before you leave home, book a room at the Holiday Inn Express in Yreka, CA. In September 2018, my mom and I spent a long and restful weekend in Siskiyou, and we loved staying at the Holiday Inn. Some of our favorite amenities at the Yreka location included their free breakfast and indoor swimming pool.
If the Holiday Inn doesn’t fit your needs, explore more lodging options here.
Day 1 — Scott Valley
Orient yourself to Siskiyou while having a late breakfast or lunch at the Black Bear Diner in Yreka. Once you’ve fueled up with a large meal, drive to Fort Jones, CA—a small community nestled in Scott Valley.
While you’re there, visit Mountain Crest Gardens, the Fort Jones Museum on Main Street, and stop at the California Heritage Farms U-Pick Berry Patch.
After exploring Fort Jones, head over to Etna, CA for dinner at Denny Bar & Co; it’s one of my favorite restaurants in Siskiyou because the food is delicious, the atmosphere is fun, and the service is terrific.
Day 2 — Tulelake
Start your day with a cup of coffee, a scone, or a breakfast burrito at Zephyr Books and Coffee in Yreka. Then drive to the Lava Beds National Monument in Tulelake—a popular spelunking and cave touring destination in Siskiyou. The drive is roughly two hours from Yreka, so bring snacks for the adventure or stop for lunch in Dorris.
If caving doesn’t sound like fun, consider going birding at the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is near the Lava Beds, so it’s possible to see both places, or you can choose one destination to explore.
After caving and birding, end your day with a relaxing meal at Strings Italian Cafe in Yreka.
For more information, the National Park Service posted an extensive resource list about caving at the Lava Beds National Monument. Read their tips before embarking on an adventure at the park.
Day 3 — Mt. Shasta
Seven Suns Coffee and Café is a great place to kick off a fun-filled day in Mt. Shasta. They serve breakfast and amazing coffee and tea.
After you’re done with breakfast go on a crystal shopping adventure in Mount Shasta and then head to Lake Siskiyou for a long walk. The lake is quiet, peaceful, and offers picture-perfect views of Mount Shasta.
End your long, restful weekend with a hot stone massage, facial, or pedicure at the Sacred Mountain Spa. Explore all of the spa’s offerings here.
Enjoy your downtime in Siskiyou!
Keywords
birding, Crystals, Denny Bar Co., Fort Jones, itinerary, Lava Beds National Monument, Mount Shasta, Mt. Shasta, Scott Valley, siskiyou, spa, spring break, vacation, Yreka