7 Scenic Hikes Around Mount Shasta, California You’ll Never Forget
Mount Shasta offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Northern California, perfect for anyone looking to explore nature. Whether you’re new to hiking or experienced, you’ll find trails that match your pace and give you stunning views.
These 7 scenic hikes around Mount Shasta will show you a variety of landscapes—from waterfalls to alpine forests—that make this area special. With so many options, you can enjoy peaceful walks or more challenging adventures, all surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
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McCloud River Falls Trail
If you’re up for an easy, scenic hike, the McCloud River Falls Trail is a solid pick. You’ll stroll past three beautiful waterfalls—Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls—each with spots to stop and take in the views.
The trail is just under 4 miles round trip and mostly smooth, with paved sections near the falls, so it’s pretty accessible. You can even find picnic areas and a campground nearby if you want to extend your visit.
It’s a great spot for a relaxed day out, with plenty of nature and photo ops along the way. Check out more details on the McCloud River Falls Trail.
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Panther Meadow Loop
If you’re looking for a short, easy hike near Mount Shasta, Panther Meadow Loop is a great pick. The trail is about 0.7 miles and offers a peaceful walk through beautiful foliage.
The loop sits at the base of Mount Shasta, so you get lovely views without much effort. It’s perfect for a quick nature escape or an easy day hike.
You can start the loop just a short distance up the road from Panther Meadow Campground. It’s a great way to experience the calm, scenic environment in a manageable timeframe.
Learn more about the Panther Meadow Loop trail here.
Evergreen Trail
The Evergreen Trail is perfect if you want a peaceful walk surrounded by lush forests. You’ll find towering evergreens and plenty of shade, making it a great choice on warmer days.
The trail is fairly easy, so it’s suitable whether you’re new to hiking or just looking for a relaxing outing.
Along the way, you can spot small streams and wildlife, giving you a real feel for the area’s natural beauty. It’s a solid option if you want a quiet escape near Mount Shasta. For more trails like this, check out detailed guides on Evergreen Trail and others nearby.
Lower Falls Trail to Mossbrae Falls
If you’re near Mount Shasta, the Lower Falls Trail is a great starting point for your hike. From there, you can continue towards Mossbrae Falls, a hidden gem in Dunsmuir. The waterfall flows into the Sacramento River and is about 50 feet tall.
Keep in mind, to reach Mossbrae Falls, you’ll be hiking along an unofficial path near train tracks. It’s technically trespassing, so be careful and watch for trains.
The trail offers peaceful river views and a chance to see multiple spring-fed streams at the falls. It’s worth the effort if you’re up for a bit of adventure. You can find more details about hiking Mossbrae Falls here.
Shasta Bally Trail
The Shasta Bally Trail is a great option if you want a mix of hiking and mountain biking. You’ll find it in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, known for its scenic views and well-maintained paths.
Camping options vary here, from designated campsites to dispersed spots if you want to rough it. The trail is popular but not overcrowded, so you can enjoy a peaceful day outside.
If you like a bit of a challenge, the trail’s terrain will keep you on your toes without being too intense. It’s a solid choice for getting some fresh air near Mount Shasta.
More details about the trail can be found at Shasta Bally Trail on AllTrails.
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Hedge Creek Falls Trail
If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike, Hedge Creek Falls Trail is perfect. It’s just 0.7 miles long and leads you right to a beautiful waterfall that drops about 30 feet.
You can actually walk behind the falls through a natural cave, which is a pretty cool experience. The trail also gives you great views of Mount Shasta and the Sacramento River.
Located just off Interstate 5 in Dunsmuir, this spot is super convenient if you want a scenic break during your road trip. It’s a nice mix of forest and water without much effort.
Check out more details on the Hedge Creek Falls Trail.
Castle Crags Loop Trail
The Castle Crags Loop Trail gives you a great mix of granite spires and forest views. It’s about 5.5 miles long with some steady climbs, so be ready for a bit of a workout.
Along the way, you’ll catch stunning views of the Castle Crags rock formations towering above. The trail also connects with the Pacific Crest Trail, adding some extra adventure if you want.
This hike is a solid choice if you want a full experience of Castle Crags State Park’s natural beauty without going too far. The scenery makes the effort well worth it. For more, check out the detailed trail info on the Castle Crags State Park hiking trails.
