Winter is one of the best times to visit Siskiyou. Outdoor adventures in the snow, unique Holiday events, and getting cozy with some yummy food and drinks are the best ways to enjoy the winter season around here. Check out our list of Holiday Happenings so you won’t miss out on any of the winter fun in California’s North!
Go Ice Skating at the Siskiyou Ice Rink
Imagine yourself gliding on a beautiful frozen outdoor ice rink under the snowcapped peaks of Mt Shasta! This epic experience can be had at Mt Shata’s Shastice Park 7 days a week from mid-November through February. Admission and Skate rentals are $10 for adults, and $8 for youth, seniors and active military. Skates can be rented for $2.
Cozy Up with a Warm Beverage
Grab a Hot Cocoa or warming Coffee or Tea drink at one of our many excellent local coffee houses and drive-thru espresso spots. Siskiyou knows how to keep you warm from the inside as you explore during the winter months. Some of our favorite spots to get cozy and caffeinated are Zephyr Books and Coffee in Yreka, Farmhouse Bakery in Etna, Ukonom Gold in Fort Jones, Spill the Beans in McCloud, Theory in Mt Shasta, and Ellie’s Espresso in Weed.
Hit the Slopes at Mt Shasta Ski Park
Siskiyou’s premiere ski resort is located on the southside of stratovolcano Mount Shasta, between the towns of McCloud and Mt Shasta. There are a total of 38 ski trails covering 635 acres of skiable terrain, accessed by 6 lifts. The base area is located at 5,500 feet elevation, so even if you just come to enjoy the après at the lodge and fire pit, you will be sure to feel that you are in the alpine! A Tube Park, Rentals and Lessons are all available for beginners and for those more intermediate and experienced shredders, Gray Butte Chair, installed in 2023, opened up higher elevation terrain and access to some of the most epic backcountry spots on the mountain. “The Ski Park” as locals call it, is independently run and definitely has a family vibe you just got to check out!
Attend a Holiday Event
Holiday events are all the buzz around Siskiyou this time of year and each community has its own spin on things. McCloud hosts Winter Fest every weekend December with a kids day, Yuletide bazaar and a special showing of the movie the Polar Express. Mt Shasta is home to the annual Winter Magic event with an ugly sweater run, horse and carriage rides and a holiday parade. Yreka hosts Discover Siskiyou’s own signature event, the Night of Lights. This evening combines an outdoor holiday market with downtown shopping, a tree lighting and lots of free fun for families and kids. Check out the events calendar for more holiday events.
Jingle your way through Siskiyou and enjoy some of the best that the snowy season has to offer!