Valentine’s Day might look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be one for the books! If you’re looking for something special that’s also COVID-friendly, consider planning a weekend getaway to California’s North, where we’ve got remote lodging check-ins, tons of mouthwatering outdoor dining and takeout options, and all the adventure your (sweet)heart desires!
Note: In Siskiyou, retail shops are open at 25% capacity. Indoor dining is currently paused, but many of our local restaurants have heated outdoor seating and online ordering/curbside pickup options. Please remember to wear a mask whenever you are indoors or near others.
Outdoor Adventure in Mount Shasta
For the couple who loves the outdoors, LOGE Mt. Shasta is your ultimate adventure outpost for your romantic escapes in Siskiyou! When you arrive, utilize remote check-in and keyless entry, and request a DIY housekeeping kit if you’d like to further minimize contact with others. Bring your own skis and store them in your room, or take advantage of the convenient on-site gear rental service offering sleds, skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and more (advance reservations recommended) before hitting the slopes at the Mt. Shasta Ski Park. If snowmobiling is more your speed, rent a pair from Fun Factory Rentals and then unwind with a frosty local brew and gastropub fare outside under the heaters at Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen in downtown Mt. Shasta (or take your food and beer back to your room!)
Ultimate Romance in McCloud
Nestled at the base of Mt. Shasta, the quaint town of McCloud is the perfect destination for couples who want to hunker down in luxurious accommodations and enjoy the winter scenery without breaking a sweat. Want the feel of a cabin with the amenities of a hotel? Choose from seven cozy suites at the newly renovated Shasta View Lodge, located walking distance from McCloud’s charming downtown with a gorgeous view of the nearby mountain. Those who don’t want to venture out can grab fare from the on-site restaurant, or wander downtown to the Axe & Rose Pub and take advantage of their outdoor patio (be sure to bundle up!) A short drive up Hwy 89 will take you to drive-up overlooks at both Upper and Lower McCloud falls. Be sure to stop by the McCloud Mercantile on your way back to your room for a bottle of bubbly and local confections to enjoy together.
Farm to Fork Paradise in Scott Valley
If the way to your heart is through your stomach, then make your way to Scott Valley for some of the best farm-to-fork fare Siskiyou has to offer. First, book a charming vacation rental to act as your home base. On your drive into the valley, stop at Five Mary’s Burgerhouse in Fort Jones where you’ll find a selection of entrees featuring dry-aged beef, pork, and lamb raised right up the road at Five Mary’s Farms. Enjoy your meal on the large outdoor patio equipped with party lights, heaters, and blankets. (Online ordering and curbside pickup is also available!) A few miles down the road in Etna, you’ll find Etna Brewing Co., an award-winning craft brewery that was founded in 1872. Enjoy a flight while sampling their selection of smoked BBQ around an outdoor fire pit. And finally, no visit to Scott Valley is complete without a trip to Denny Bar Co., Etna’s very own distillery and restaurant serving up artisanal food and craft cocktails – take your food and drinks to go, or enjoy them on the covered outdoor patio.
Which adventure will you choose? Don’t forget to tag us @seesiskiyou in your trip pics!