17 Amazing Things to Do in Mt. Shasta in Summer (Local’s Guide)
Summer is by far my favorite time to be in Mt. Shasta. Trails are open, lakes are warm enough for swimming, and you can easily spend days outdoors without running out of things to do.
I grew up in Siskiyou County and have spent plenty of summers hiking, swimming, and exploring this area.
This guide covers the best things to do in Mt. Shasta in summer, with tips you’ll actually use on where to go, how to make the most of your visit, and insider spots locals love.
Best Things to Do in Mt. Shasta in Summer
1. Ride the Chair Lift at Mt. Shasta Ski Park
Address: 4500 Ski Park Hwy, McCloud, CA 96057
Cost: $20 day pass, $10 for seniors 65+, kids under 6 not allowed
Time Needed: 1–2 hours, longer if you hike or bike down
Most people think of ski lifts as a winter thing, but you can ride them in summer too. The lift runs Saturdays from July to August, taking you high above the trees with incredible views of the mountain and valley.
At the top, there is a small restaurant that serves burgers, hot dogs, snacks, and beer. The first time I went, they ran out of food, so I just got to smell everyone else’s burgers. Get there early if you want to eat. Or you can do what we did and head back down for lunch in town.
There’s not a whole lot to do at the top, other than check out the views and walk around a bit. We hiked around as much as we could without actually descending very far, and it was very enjoyable.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can hike or bike down the trails from the top, or simply ride the lift back down.
If you’re nervous about heights like I am, know that some chairs have safety bars and some do not. You can wait for one with a bar.
On the ride down, they only use chairs with bars for safety. Even with the bar, it’s terrifying but worth it.
2. See the Headwaters of the Sacramento River
Address: Mt. Shasta City Park, 1315 Nixon Rd, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 30–60 minutes (or all day if you want!)
Mt. Shasta City Park is where the Sacramento River begins. Water bubbles straight out of the ground and flows into creeks that wind through the park.
The water is freezing but crystal clear. On hot days, you will see people wading in it downstream. You’ll also see people filling water jugs from the spring. Many locals swear by this water and have been drinking it for decades.
The park itself is big, with picnic tables, shady spots, and a couple of playgrounds. One of them has been there since I was in grade school (or longer).
Be sure to explore the paths along the creek. It’s absolutely gorgeous in the trees, and you’ll feel miles away from civilization. I like to find a secluded nook and sit by the water with a book. It’s so peaceful and relaxing.
- Insider Tip: The parking lot fills up fast on weekends, especially in the afternoons. Go earlier in the day for fewer crowds.
3. Explore Mt. Shasta’s Spiritual Shops
Address: Downtown Mount Shasta Boulevard, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free to browse, prices vary for items
Time Needed: 1–2 hours to browse several shops
Mt. Shasta is famous for its spiritual energy, and you’ll see that in the shops downtown. Crystal stores, metaphysical bookshops, and places selling incense and locally made remedies are all part of the scene.
Even if you are not into spiritual practices, the shops are interesting to browse. You’ll find things you don’t see in most towns, from unique jewelry to hand-carved wands and rare crystals.
You’ll also find some great restaurants if you want to take a break. I love Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen for a casual lunch and local beer. Their seared ahi sandwich is amazing.
- Insider Tip: Start along Mount Shasta Boulevard in downtown. Most of the shops are within a few blocks of each other.
- Bonus Tip: There are public restrooms near City Hall. They’re clean and convenient.
4. Visit Gateway Peace Garden
Address: 100 N Mount Shasta Blvd, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 15–30 minutes
The Peace Garden is amazing. I ventured into it not knowing what to expect, and I was blown away.
There are meandering paths leading to private seating areas surrounded by trees and bushes. People tie strips of cloth to the branches with messages to loved ones and other spiritual messages.
People also leave mementos in the various areas. I spotted shell necklaces, pins, figurines, and all kinds of little things that have meaning for someone.
My favorite part is that all different forms of religion are represented. You’ll see Christian statuettes mixed in with Buddhist and Jewish artifacts.
Be quiet and respectful as you enter to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. You never know what people are dealing with as they sit among the trees.
- Insider Tip: Be sure to set your GPS because the park is somewhat hidden with a small sign. Parking is only on the street.
5. See a Show at Jefferson Center for the Arts
Address: 1124 Pine Grove Dr, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Varies by show (often $10–$25)
Time Needed: 1–2 hours, depending on performance
The Jefferson Center hosts live theater, music events, and art exhibits. Summer often brings outdoor concerts and community events that are family-friendly and affordable.
The theater is small but very pretty and comfortable.
When I visited, they were showing Little Shop of Horrors. I was there on the last day, and it looked like a full house.
- Insider Tip: Tickets are usually sold online and at the door, but summer shows can sell out quickly. Look ahead and book if you know you want to go.
6. Golf at Mt. Shasta Resort
Address: 1000 Siskiyou Lake Blvd, Mt Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Around $25–$70 per round (cart extra)
Time Needed: 3–4 hours for 18 holes
If you want to add a round of golf to your Lake Siskiyou trip, the Mount Shasta Resort Golf Course is only a few minutes away.
It’s an 18-hole championship course known for its tree-lined fairways, peaceful setting, and incredible views of Mt. Shasta.
The course winds through pine forests with several holes offering glimpses of the mountain, so even non-golfers often tag along just for the scenery.
It’s open to the public, and you can book tee times online or by calling ahead. The resort also has a pro shop, driving range, and practice greens if you want to warm up before your round.
- Insider Tip: Stop by the on-site restaurant or lounge after your game for a casual meal or drink with more views of the course.
7. Visit the Mt. Shasta Fish Hatchery
Address: 3 N Old Stage Rd, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free to visit
Time Needed: About 1 hour, longer if you add the trail or museum
The Mt. Shasta Fish Hatchery is the oldest trout hatchery west of the Mississippi. It first opened in 1888, and today it produces upwards of 30 million trout eggs each year for California’s fish hatcheries.
You can do a self-guided tour and see every stage of a trout’s life cycle. You can watch eggs hatching and tiny fry being raised before they move to the nursery ponds and eventually into the outdoor raceways.
Kids love this stop because they can feed the fish for free and see hundreds of trout swimming in the ponds. You can easily spend an hour here walking between the tanks, checking out the different stages, and enjoying the peaceful setting.
There are picnic tables on site, clean restrooms, and plenty of space to stretch your legs.
Behind the hatchery, the Elsa Rupp Nature Trail loops through forest and meadows. It’s a short and easy walk that feels tucked away from town, even though it’s only minutes from downtown Mt. Shasta.
- Insider Tip: Watch for their Kids’ Fishing Days. They’re held in June and July and give kids 15 and under the chance to fish for free.
8. Visit the Sisson Museum
Address: 1 N Old Stage Rd, Mt Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free (donations encouraged and requested for some events)
Time Needed: 1–2 hours
The Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum is one of those places you don’t expect to love, and then you walk out wondering why you haven’t visited sooner.
It’s right next to the Mt. Shasta Fish Hatchery, so you can easily visit both in the same trip.
This isn’t a dry, traditional museum. The exhibits are super interactive and designed for hands-on learning, so kids can play while they learn, and adults can dig into the history of the area.
You’ll find displays about Mt. Shasta’s volcanic geology, the early railroad and logging days, and local culture. A lot of people say it’s one of the best small museums they’ve been to anywhere in the West.
The museum is open Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Insider Tip: Check their website before visiting. The museum and hatchery have been known to close due to bears.
9. Spend a Day at Lake Siskiyou
Address: 4239 W A Barr Rd, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Day use $3 per person; boat rentals extra
Time Needed: Half a day to a full day
Lake Siskiyou is where I have spent more summer days than I can count. It’s perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just sitting by the shore.
You can rent boats at the marina, walk the seven-mile loop trail around the lake, or spend the weekend camping at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. The resort has cabins, RV hookups, and tent sites.
The beach area near the marina is family-friendly, with a roped-off swim section. It does get busy on summer weekends, so weekdays are quieter.
- Insider Tip: While dogs are allowed at the campground, they aren’t allowed on the beach or picnic areas.
10. Take Your Dog to Shastice Dog Park
Address: Shastice Park, 800 Rockfellow Dr, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Time Needed: As long as you want
While there are many dog-friendly parks in the area, Shastice Park is the only off-leash dog park in the entire county. It is large, shady, and fully fenced, with separate areas for big and small dogs.
Every time I have gone, it has been quiet. Sometimes you will have the whole place to yourself.
- Insider Tip: The dog park is hard to find. Park all the way in the back by the skate park and head over past the sports fields. It’s next to the community gardens.
11. Catch a Concert
Address: Shastice Park, 800 Rockfellow Dr, Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Time Needed: 1–2 hours
If you’re in Mt. Shasta on a summer Sunday evening, head to Shastice Park for the free concert series. It runs from mid-July through mid-August and is one of the most relaxed ways to spend an evening in town.
The concerts start at 6:30 p.m. and feature local and regional bands, with music styles that range from folk to rock to blues.
Bring your own blanket or camp chair, find a spot on the grass, and enjoy the mountain views while you listen. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and there’s usually a mix of locals and visitors hanging out.
- Insider Tip: Bookmark my full guide to events and activities happening in the county. In it I list the actual dates for the concerts.
12. Go Hiking
Summer is the best time for hiking in this area. Some favorite trails include:
- Panther Meadows: High alpine meadows with wildflowers and views of the summit. Roads here usually open in late June or July. Note that Panther Meadows has strict stay-on-trail rules.
- Castle Lake to Heart Lake: A short but steep hike to a small lake with one of the best views of Mt. Shasta.
- Sisson Meadow: Easy walking paths and boardwalks right in town, good for birdwatching or a quick stretch.
- McCloud Falls: A trail connecting three waterfalls about 20 minutes from Mt. Shasta. You can hike between all three or just visit one.
- Insider Tip: Trailhead parking fills up fast on weekends, especially at Panther Meadows and Castle Lake. Go early or later in the day for a better experience.
13. Try Mountain Biking
Address: Mt. Shasta Ski Park and surrounding trails
Cost: Lift passes start at $20; rentals available
Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Mt. Shasta Ski Park turns into a mountain biking area in summer. They have lift-served downhill trails, plus easier cross-country routes in the surrounding forest. You can rent bikes at the park or bring your own.
If you are not into downhill riding, the area around Castle Lake and Gumboot Lake also has good singletrack trails.
- Insider Tip: If you’re new to downhill riding, start with a green or blue trail at the ski park before committing to anything steeper. Rentals and staff can help you choose.
14. Go Fishing
Between lakes and rivers, there is no shortage of fishing spots around Mt. Shasta. Lake Siskiyou, Castle Lake, and the Upper Sacramento River are local favorites for trout.
You will need a California fishing license, which you can get online or at outdoor shops in town. Early morning and evening are usually the best times to fish in summer.
- Insider Tip: The Upper Sacramento River fishes best in the early morning before the sun hits the water. Bring waders if you plan to move around.
15. Camp Under the Stars
There are plenty of campgrounds around Mt. Shasta, whether you want to be by a lake, in the forest, or close to town. Options include:
- Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort
- Castle Lake
- McBride Springs
- Panther Meadows
- Gumboot Lake
- Mt. Shasta KOA
- Castle Crags State Park
Summer weekends fill fast, so reserve early if you can. Panther Meadows is first-come, first-served and opens later in the season due to snow.
- Insider Tip: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort books out weeks in advance for summer weekends. If you want a last-minute spot, try McBride Springs or Gumboot Lake.
16. Bird Watching
The mix of lakes, meadows, and forests around Mt. Shasta makes it a great birding area. Look for bald eagles, ospreys, and woodpeckers at Lake Siskiyou or Castle Lake. AllTrails has lists of birding trails with recent sightings.
On the south end of town, I recently saw an eagle nest with three birds in it. My picture is grainy because I had to zoom in so much, but be on the lookout for it when you’re in town.
- Insider Tip: Early morning is your best chance to see wildlife, especially around Lake Siskiyou and quieter shoreline areas.
17. Take a Guided Tour
If you want more context about the mountain’s history, geology, or spiritual side, consider booking a tour.
Mt. Shasta Guided Tour
This small-group driving tour is an easy way to see several key spots around Mount Shasta without having to plan the route yourself. It combines scenic viewpoints, short walks, and local insight from a guide who’s spent decades exploring the area.
Stops typically include Mount Shasta City Park, where you can try fresh spring water at the headwaters of the Sacramento River, along with higher elevation viewpoints like Bunny Flat and the Old Ski Bowl area.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the mountain’s geology, plant life, and local history, with a few quieter stops for photos or a quick walk.
This is more of a sightseeing experience than a hike. Expect short, easy walks and plenty of time in the vehicle as you move between locations.
It’s a good option if you want a broad overview of the mountain without a lot of physical effort.
Good to know:
- Tours are small, with a maximum of four people.
- Transportation and bottled water are included.
- Some stops are seasonal or weather-dependent.
- Most travelers can participate, with minimal walking required.
- Insider Tip: Book in advance in summer. Small group tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Mount Shasta Sacred Tour
This is a private, fully customized experience that blends light hiking with guided meditation and energy work around Mount Shasta. The tour typically lasts five to six hours and is tailored to your pace, interests, and comfort level.
You’ll visit a mix of scenic and lesser-known spots, which may include alpine areas, quiet forest locations, and crystalline waters.
Depending on the season, there may also be an option to swim at one of the sacred sites. Along the way, your guide leads meditation and energy healing sessions, with time to slow down and take in the setting.
This tour leans more spiritual than recreational. Expect a mix of conversation, reflection, and time in nature, rather than a fast-paced itinerary.
It’s a good fit if you’re curious about Mount Shasta’s spiritual side or want a more personal, introspective experience.
Good to know:
- Well-behaved dogs may be allowed with advance approval.
- Tours are private and customized for each group.
- You’ll need your own transportation to reach the different stops.
- Some light hiking is involved, but difficulty can be adjusted.
Half-Day Tour to Faery Waterfalls, Castle Lake, and Mount Shasta
This half-day tour covers a lot of ground and gives you a well-rounded look at both the Klamath Mountains and Mount Shasta itself. It’s a mix of short walks, scenic drives, and stops at some of the area’s most interesting natural sites.
You’ll start on the west side with a visit to Ney Springs and Faery Falls, where a short but uneven trail leads to a tucked-away waterfall and historic spring site. From there, the tour heads to Castle Lake for time by the water and a look at one of the region’s best alpine lakes.
The second half focuses on Mount Shasta. You’ll drive up Everitt Memorial Highway with stops at places like Red Fir Flat, Bunny Flat, and possibly the Old Ski Bowl if conditions allow. Expect wide views, quick walks, and some background on the mountain’s geology and history along the way.
Good to know:
- Tours are small, with a maximum of four people.
- Transportation and bottled water are included.
- Some trails are short but uneven, so wear sturdy shoes.
- Higher elevation stops depend on weather and road access.
About Mt. Shasta
Mt. Shasta is both a mountain and a small town in far Northern California. The mountain rises over 14,000 feet and is the second-highest peak in the Cascades.
The area is filled with alpine lakes, meadows, and volcanic features, making it a year-round playground for outdoor lovers.
Mt. Shasta Weather in Summer
Summer days are warm, with highs in the 80s and 90s and cooler nights in the 50s and 60s.
Afternoon thunderstorms can happen, especially in July and August, so bring layers and check the forecast.
Forest fires in the area are common, especially in August. Smoke can get bad at the lower elevations. Be sure to check air conditions if you have any respiratory problems.
For more on conditions throughout the year, see my guide to the best time to visit Mt. Shasta.
Where to Stay in Mt. Shasta
Places range from rustic cabins to boutique inns:
- Basecamp Lodge: Modern, central, and a good value
- Tree House Inn: Family-friendly with great amenities
- Inn at Mt. Shasta: Cozy and close to downtown
- Summit Lofts: Stylish vacation rentals with mountain views
- Mt. Shasta Resort: Golf course, spa, and lake access
- Shasta Inn: Budget-friendly and walkable to shops
- Strawberry Valley Inn: Dog-friendly and full of charm
Final Thoughts
Summer in Mt. Shasta is perfect if you love hiking, lakes, and low-key small-town events. There’s so much to do that you could easily spend a couple of weeks without getting bored.
Pack for changing weather, bring water shoes if you will be near the lakes or springs, and give yourself time to just sit and watch the mountain. It looks different every hour of the day.
