The locals call this the Alpine Vistas and Villages Region - and, yes, it certainly fits the landscape. Travelers on Interstate 5 are fortunate that the highway was routed so close to the second tallest,
dormant volcano on the continent, Mt. Shasta. Like so few others, e.g., Japan's Mount Fuji and Africa's Kilimanjaro, Mt. Shasta stands stark and alone, - the solo peak with its snow-covered cone as though popping off the page of a picture book.
If you're driving through, stop and stay a day. For folks on a real tight budget there is the
EconoLodge with rates as low as the mid $40s (and very nice accommodations). If you're more into the extras, there's the
Tree House Motor Inn
(Best Western) with rates ranging from the high 80s to
$112 or so (which includes free high-speed Internet access). You can even get a room with a balcony and a spectacular view.This is a year-round
resort area. It is also an excellent location to take a break in a long
trip on Interstate 5.
|
Popular attractions in this area include:
- Castle Crags - a group of granite spires overlooking the Sacramento River near Dunsmuir. Can be viewed from many sites and makes a great backdrop for photos.
- Lake Siskiyou - popular for boating; has a marina with a well stocked store.
- McCloud River Falls - three water falls on the McCloud River; popular with hikers and campers.
See pictures.
- Mt. Shasta Ski Park - popular with snow board and ski enthusiasts alike (15 downhill ski runs plus cross-country trails a-plenty). In the summer the melted snow reveals the many great hiking trails.
- Sisson Fish Hatchery & Museum - built in 1888 and until 1979 it was the largest rainbow trout hatchery in the world. The original building is now a fishing Museum. Tours of the site are 'self-guided'.
|
