Siskiyou offers a fun mix of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, history, and unique local experiences that can make for an unforgettable 3-day weekend. From stunning mountains to charming towns, here’s our top picks for the ultimate itinerary for your next 3-day trip!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Yreka
Start your trip by driving via Interstate 5 or flying into the closest airport, in Medford, OR, and then on to Yreka, the historic county seat and hub for adventure in Siskiyou. Explore Historic Miner Street, boutique shopping, and admire the architecture from the Gold Rush Era. Grab a coffee at Zephyr Books and Coffee, or a heartier breakfast at Black Bear Diner, as you get your day started. Take a morning walk around Greenhorn Park and maybe even a stop in the Siskiyou County Museum. There is so much to learn and explore in North Siskiyou!
Head out of town toward Highway 96, and wind your way along the Klamath River toward Happy Camp and into West Siskiyou. This drive will be full of turns, trees, and give you a real glimpse of the landscape that makes this area of Northern California so special and memorable. Head back south via Scott River Road into the town of Fort Jones in Scott Valley. Grab a table at Five Mary’s Burgerhouse, and enjoy one of their signature burgers, from beef raised just 5 miles down the road! Finish your evening driving over Forest Mountain back to Yreka. Stay the night at the Best Western Miner’s Inn or Holiday Inn Express, maybe even hit up Rain Rock Casino for some fun and gaming!
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure in Mount Shasta
As you drive to Mt Shasta, you will see one of the most iconic peaks in California heading south along I-5. The drive itself is so scenic and sets the tone for a truly epic day. Grab a healthy breakfast on-the-go from Alua’s Thrive Bar, you will need fuel for today’s adventure. Head to the Lake Siskiyou Trail, a moderate hike with views of the mountain and lake, walk across the Wagon Creek Bridge and marvel at the views of Mount Shasta. The full loop trail is not always possible in Winter, but sections along the North and South Shores are accessible. For a more challenging experience, consider a trek to a mountain lake such as Castle Lake or Heart Lake. These two are often frozen and can offer a great spot for ice fishing or ice skating. Just be sure to check that the ice is safe enough to venture on and of course, don’t go out alone. Grab a late lunch or early dinner in Mount Shasta somewhere downtown like Pipeline Craft Taps or Lily’s Restaurant. Book your stay at Loge Mt Shasta or Basecamp Lodge so you can be close by for your next day’s adventures. Maybe even book a massage or spa service at Sacred Mountain Spa at the Mount Shasta Resort to relax and unwind or a after your busy fun-filled day!
Day 3: Hit the Slopes in South Siskiyou
Make sure you are up early to grab your rental gear from The Fifth Season so you can get on the first chairlift at Mt Shasta Ski Park. Don’t forget to grab a hot beverage at Theory Coffee on your way to the slopes! Spend your morning getting turns on 425 acres of skiable terrain or take a lesson before you grab a warm lunch in the lodge. If downhill isn’t your speed, the Mt Shasta Nordic Center is also along the Ski Park Highway and offers cross country and snowshoeing adventures. Grab a filling burger at Yak’s on the 5 in Dunsmuir after a day in the snow and cozy up somewhere like the Mossbrae Hotel in the charming downtown area. Another great spot to stay would be the McCloud River Mercantile Hotel, in historic McCloud and adjacent to the Mercantile shops and restaurants. Finish your evening with some stargazing, as Siskiyou is known for its dark skies. If you’re into astronomy, spend some time in a peaceful spot and enjoy the night sky.
Additional Tips:
Weather: Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter or early spring.
Road Conditions: Check the state and county road conditions before venturing out. Carry chains or bring an AWD vehicle and pack a bit of extra warmth and food to be prepared!