outdoor enthusiasts. The county is the size of
Connecticut but home to little more than a tenth of a percent of the state’s population, meaning there is plenty of space to roam.
WHAT TO DO Siskiyou is filled with outdoor adventures for all travel styles. Exploring Lava Beds National Monument was a highlight of my trip. Still, the county is also home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails leading to high alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and Mount Shasta, which, at 14,179 feet, is the Golden State’s fifth-highest peak. My favorite waterfall experience
was hiking the McCloud River Trail, which took me to three waterfalls along a 3-mile out-and-back easy trail.
Another excellent hike is along
the Castle Lake and Heart Lake trails. These take you from the base of Castle Lake — a frequented place for picnics or paddleboarding — high up into the Trinity Mountains via a steep but well-maintained trail. From the top of the Castle Lake trailhead, the views are spectacular. If you’re looking for a more
adrenaline-fueled adventure, Siskiyou County is home to the
Klamath River, one of California’s most popular rafting destinations. The river boasts Class II to Class IV rapids, perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters.
WHERE TO STAY Siskiyou County is massive, so where you base yourself is important. I chose to stay at the Shasta View
Lodge, in the charming small town of McCloud, at the base of Mount Shasta. However, the city of Mount Shasta,
about 15 minutes away, is also an ideal base and offers more dining and shopping opportunities. Both are in the southern part of the county, where you’ll find many of the hiking trails referenced above. The Mount Shasta Resort, in the
city of the same name, is another excellent choice, especially if you are looking for more on-site amenities. The resort is set around a lake with a golf course, spa, restaurant, and chalet accommodations.
WHERE TO EAT The Highland House Restaurant at the Mount Shasta Resort serves American and global fare along with great views. Also in Mount Shasta is Lily’s, a farm-to-table restaurant with fresh
and creative dishes. The menu also includes gluten-free and vegan entrees. The Black Bear Diner is a local institution. Although it serves American comfort food and desserts in a classic diner setting all day, the breakfast here gets locals out of bed. In McCloud, Siskiyou Brew Works
is a family-owned spot for lunch and dinner. I enjoyed the European-style craft beers brewed with pure glacier water running off Mount Shasta and the made-to-order pizzas with a unique beer sauce and three-cheese blend.
GETTING THERE If you are flying to Siskiyou, you’ll want to book your flight into the Rogue Valley International Medford Airport in Oregon. United, Delta, American, and Alaska Airlines all have flights here. Pick up a rental car at the airport
and head south. It is about an hour and a half from the airport to Mount Shasta on Interstate 5. Note that distances are long, and if
you plan to visit Lava Beds National Monument from the southern portion of the county, the drive takes close to two hours via the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. You will want a car to explore this beautiful region.
JUNE 2024 | NEWSMAX MAXLIFE 81
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