Move Over Tahoe! This Crystal-Clear Lake Hideaway Is California’s Best Kept Secret
Step apart, Tahoe!
There’s one other NorCal lake hideaway with fewer crowds, unbounded nature, and no snooty vibes — a spot the place you will not discover thousand-dollar millionaires attempting to outdo one another.
In reality, this area of California leans extra on the Boho spectrum the place tie-dye shirts are commonplace, #vanlife possible outpaces the true property market, and a deep appreciation for nature is virtually a neighborhood legislation.

Sure, you possibly can nonetheless e book a rustic cabin with a crackling hearth and gorgeous panoramic views, however there aren’t any flashy casinos and celeb chef eating places as you may discover in glamorous Tahoe.
This spring (or summer season), the lesser-known Lake Siskiyou is asking your title because the very definition of a tranquil hideaway.
Unwind In California’s Best Kept Secret
While there is a sure portion of vacationers (possible aged 25 and underneath) looking for out the prettiest seashores to show into their rager headquarters, one other portion (like me) enjoys a quieter escape with out the thumping bass and that one broken-record drunk “woo!” lady.
That’s the place Lake Siskyou comes into play as one in all California’s most serene escapes, but largely unknown.
Located close to Mt. Shasta, an eccentric city stuffed with New Age outlets, non secular seekers, and out of doors adventures, Lake Siskyou is the area’s brilliant spot in what outsiders sometimes contemplate a kooky haven of misfits.
Mt. Shasta’s shameless “hippie” vibes could be a deterrent to some vacationers, however Lake Siskiyou itself is not lined with crystal outlets simply because it is in shut distance.
The lake is a giant draw from native Northern Californians in summer season, making spring a good time to go to to benefit from the pristine crystal-clear waters excellent for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and/or renting a boat.
And for those who determine Lake Siskiyou is your spring highway journey vacation spot, be happy to deliver Fido alongside. Dogs are allowed to tag alongside (with a most 6-foot leash). It’s a ruff life; puppers deserve a vacay too.
Before planning, simply know March continues to be chilly. Aim for April by means of early June, the place temps start to hit the mid 60’s in April and prime out within the low 80’s in June earlier than the native crowds take over.
‘Sacred’ Mountains And Waterfalls: Lake Siskiyou Is Made For Exploring
While Austin and Portland each adopted the monikers of ‘holding their metropolis bizarre’, the identical might be stated for the city of Mt. Shasta.
Siskiyou County’s Native Americans have lengthy believed their mountains to be sacred, and who can blame them? Mount Shasta is a sight to behold.
Of course, it would not assist that its snow-capped peak, typically shrouded in clouds, provides to its mystique.
Legend has it the mountain is a hotspot for UFO sightings and permeates a non secular power.
So, now you would possibly perceive how Mt. Shasta has finally turn into a city of healers, non secular guides, artists, and free thinkers who do not conform to society’s unwritten guidelines.
Looking up on the mountain backdrop, it is basically an open invitation to scratch your wanderlust itch and discover the world nonetheless you see match.
The lake itself is surrounded by well-marked mountain climbing trails. The hottest path is the 6.5 mile-long Trail Loop, thought-about ‘simple’, and once more, dog-friendly.
But one of the best hikes finish with long-lasting recollections, and what higher strategy to accomplish that than discovering the great thing about Siskiyou’s hidden waterfalls?
McCloud Falls, house to a sequence of three waterfalls, is the most well-liked and deemed a “must-visit”, however additional away from the lake. Closer to the lake is Faery Falls, a 50-foot excessive waterfall few vacationers learn about.
Hedge Creek Falls is probably going the simplest to achieve because it’s proper off I-5, accessible by a ‘quick, simple hike’ as one latest customer put it.
Where To Stay
Mt. Shasta could also be quirky nevertheless it additionally serves as a terrific base with cozy boutique accommodations and farm-to-table eateries.
That is for those who do not care to remain on-site in a cushty wooded cabin at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort or splurge on a spacious chalet at top-rated golf resort, Mount Shasta Resort.
For a real hidden gem, take a look at the tiny historic city of Dunsmuir simply south of the aforementioned Hedge Creek Falls.
Home to The Angler Lodge, boasting an ideal 5.0 Google Rating, visitors love the ‘comfortable beds’, ‘clear rooms’, and shut proximity to Dunsmuir Brewery Works.
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This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, lodge, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, accepted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the publish.