Create new family memories in Siskiyou

As the season begins its slow descent toward autumn, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy summer adventures in Siskiyou, California’s northernmost region.

Residents of this beautiful area know all about its majestic mountains, breathtaking views and rugged landscapes, a location that’s considered an adventure seeker’s dream destination. But there are numerous activities perfect for families (we’ve provided a few ideas below), so make some new memories in Siskiyou, a world-class outdoor recreation destination.

Lake Siskiyou with snow on Mt Shasta

FUN IN – AND ON – THE WATER

Located near the base of spectacular Mt. Shasta, Lake Siskiyou features panoramic views of the mountain, a heavily treed forest and the 6.5-mile Lake Siskiyou Trail Loop, a family-friendly path that will take you around the entire lake.

The lake is perfect for campers, kayakers, paddleboarders, boaters and swimmers alike. If fishing is high on your to-do list, you’ll be delighted at the variety of fish available in the lake, including rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, brook trout and more. Equipment for camping, watersports and more is available throughout the Mt. Shasta area.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Siskiyou with view of Mt Shasta

The highlight of the day for many lake visitors – especially younger ones – is the Splash Zone waterpark, available by the Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. Literally located on the lake, the waterpark consists of large inflatable attractions for kids to slide, climb and bounce on. Parents can enjoy floating on the lake’s crystal blue water while the kids wear themselves out at the waterpark.

The Cantara Loop, 5 miles north of the city of Dunsmuir, is an excellent spot for fishing, hiking and swimming. Located on the Sacramento River, the area is also an ideal place to enjoy a family picnic. The river is popular with whitewater rafters and kayakers, and the 2.8-mile Sacramento River Trail provides views of the water throughout the hike.

FANTASTIC FALLS

The Siskiyou region has more than 445,000 acres of extraordinary wilderness, so practically any way you turn, you’ll be in the midst of some of nature’s most beautiful scenery.

Waterfalls are a unique feature of nature that are loved by everyone. The sight, sound and smell of a waterfall is both stimulating and relaxing.

Fortunately, Siskiyou is home to many waterfalls, with access ranging from easy to challenging. A few of the most family friendly waterfalls include McCloud Falls, a three-tier waterfall just off Highway 89 that can be accessed by car or a 3-mile roundtrip hike. Faery Falls, accessed along the Ney Springs Canyon Trail which passes a former resort that has been taken over by nature, rewards seekers with a beautiful 50-foot water drop. And Hedge Creek Falls’ 30-foot fall includes a trail that leads to a cave directly behind the waterfall.

LUNCH AND A VIEW

Pack a picnic lunch and head out on a day of sightseeing, beginning with the scenic overlook on the Vista Point Trail at Castle Crags State Park. A short hike offers a view of the granite peaks of Castle Crags, then it’s on to Vista Point where you’ll have a clear sight of Mt. Shasta. Enjoy lunch at a picnic table at Vista Point, where you’ll also find a viewing scope to get a closer look at the beautiful surroundings.

Grab your fishing pole, paddleboard, canoe and float tubes – and your picnic basket – and drive to the 55-acre Juanita Lake. Located approximately 17 miles south of the Oregon-California border, the lake is stocked with bass and catfish. Since no motors are allowed on the lake, you can enjoy a peaceful time on or in the water. Barbecue grills and picnic tables are available throughout the park, which is free to enter.

Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens, Siskiyou

Dunsmuir City Park, a 14-acre area situated next to the Upper Sacramento River, is surrounded by cedar, pine and oak trees. Picnic tables, barbecues and children’s playground equipment are included. A unique sight at the park is an amphitheater and stage, allowing a space for your kids to “act” up. Concerts, weddings and more are occasionally held in this spot.

Also located at Dunsmuir City Park is the Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens, a 10-acre wooded area with a meadow and various gardens. In addition to a play area and picnic sites, you’ll find native white dogwoods, Shasta lilies, azaleas and a variety of other perennial plants in a spectrum of colors. Walking trails provide an excellent view of the gardens.

ROLL WITH IT

Bowling is fun for all ages and families can easily strike a good time at Cedar Lanes in Weed. The 10-lane bowling alley was recently remodeled and features a sports bar, a full grill, and a delicious variety of food, including bake-and-take pizzas.

SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition to weekly walking tours and farmers markets in a number of area towns, Siskiyou is home to numerous special events that attract locals and visitors alike. For a complete listing of all events happening this season, click here.

 STAY WITH US

Siskiyou features numerous hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and other lodging options, some which offer beautiful views of Mt. Shasta and other extraordinary natural wonders. Plan a getaway to Siskiyou for the family and enjoy nature at its best.

 

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#DISCOVERSISKIYOU

🌾 Siskiyou's Scott Valley unfolds like a patchwork quilt of golden fields, winding rivers, and quiet mountain charm. Nestled between the Marble and Trinity Mountains, it’s one of Siskiyou’s best-kept secrets—peaceful, picturesque, and full of small-town heart. 💛

Whether you're flying high or driving slow, this picturesque valley is worth the detour.

📸: @beanemedia 

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✨ The stars shine brighter in Siskiyou.

With low light pollution and wide-open skies, our region offers some of the best stargazing in California. Bring a blanket, look up, and lose yourself in the magic of the cosmos. 🌠

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Labor Day Weekend = one last summer adventure. ☀️⛰️ From lakes to trails, Siskiyou’s the place to savor every mom#peaceofmind 

📸: @etch_in_love 

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Still soaking up summer? Us too. 😎 But trust us—fall in Siskiyou is worth planning ahead for. Golden trails, cozy nights, and mountain views are waiting. Link in bio for our top five spots to find fall color in Siskiyou 🏔️🍁 

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Trail to the sky. ⛰️✨ Hiking Castle Crags State Park means big views, fresh air, and feeling on top of the world. 

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🌿 Tucked just off the highway in Dunsmuir lies a little slice of magic — Hedge Creek Falls! This easy walk leads to a waterfall you can literally walk behind, with mist on your face and views of Mt. Shasta peeking through the trees. A perfect quick stop that feels like a secret. 💦✨

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Happy Fourth of July! 🎆

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking under the stars, kayaking on crystal-clear lakes, or enjoying a local festival—Siskiyou is the perfect place to make holiday memories.

🎇 Please remember to recreate responsibly - do not light your own fireworks, and pack out all of your trash! Tag us in your weekend fun using #DiscoverSiskiyou and stay safe out there! 🗻🌲💥

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Chasing light, finding peace. 🌄✨

Mt. Shasta glowing in the golden hour—nature really showing off.

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We dare you to drive over Forest Mountain into Scott Valley without stopping to snap a photo 🌲🏔️✨ 

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#discoversiskiyou #seeiskiyou #scottvalley #mountainviews #pnw #roadtrip
Siskiyou has some of the darkest skies on the West Coast, making it the ultimate location for stargazing ✨🪐 🌙 Check out our suggestions for the best spots around to view the cosmos at the link in our bio!

📸: @roadtripreadymedia 

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Sunday's full "snow moon" casting its silver glow over the Siskiyou mountains—nature's masterpiece in the sky. 🌕 

📸: @optimal_focus

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Snow is coming! Be ready for it - purchase your @mtshastanordic  season pass today! Get yours online at mtshastanordic.org

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