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Step aside, Tahoe!
There’s another NorCal lake hideaway with fewer crowds, unbounded nature, and no snooty vibes — a place where you won’t find thousand-dollar millionaires trying to outdo each other.
In fact, this region of California leans more on the Boho spectrum where tie-dye shirts are commonplace, #vanlife likely outpaces the real estate market, and a deep appreciation for nature is practically a local law.
Sure, you can still book a rustic cabin with a crackling fireplace and stunning panoramic views, but there are no flashy casinos and celebrity chef restaurants as you’ll find in glamorous Tahoe.
This spring (or summer), the lesser-known Lake Siskiyou is calling your name as the very definition of a tranquil hideaway.
Unwind In California’s Best Kept Secret
While there’s a certain portion of travelers (likely aged 25 and under) seeking out the prettiest beaches to turn into their rager headquarters, another portion (like me) enjoys a quieter escape without the thumping bass and that one broken-record drunk “woo!” girl.
That’s where Lake Siskyou comes into play as one of California’s most serene escapes, yet largely unknown.
Located near Mt. Shasta, an eccentric town full of New Age shops, spiritual seekers, and outdoor adventures, Lake Siskyou is the region’s bright spot in what outsiders typically consider a kooky haven of misfits.
Mt. Shasta’s shameless “hippie” vibes can be a deterrent to some travelers, but Lake Siskiyou itself isn’t lined with crystal shops just because it’s in close distance.
The lake is a big draw from local Northern Californians in summer, making spring a great time to visit to enjoy the pristine crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and/or renting a boat.
And if you decide Lake Siskiyou is your spring road trip destination, feel free to bring Fido along. Dogs are allowed to tag along (with a maximum 6-foot leash). It’s a ruff life; puppers deserve a vacay too.
Before making plans, just know March is still chilly. Aim for April through early June, where temps begin to hit the mid 60’s in April and top out in the low 80’s in June before the local crowds take over.
‘Sacred’ Mountains And Waterfalls: Lake Siskiyou Is Made For Exploring
While Austin and Portland both adopted the monikers of ‘keeping their city weird’, the same could be said for the town of Mt. Shasta.
Siskiyou County’s Native Americans have long believed their mountains to be sacred, and who can blame them? Mount Shasta is a sight to behold.
Of course, it doesn’t help that its snow-capped peak, often shrouded in clouds, adds to its mystique.
Legend has it the mountain is a hotspot for UFO sightings and permeates a spiritual energy.
So, now you might understand how Mt. Shasta has ultimately become a town of healers, spiritual guides, artists, and free thinkers who don’t conform to society’s unwritten rules.
Looking up at the mountain backdrop, it’s essentially an open invitation to scratch your wanderlust itch and explore the area however you see fit.
The lake itself is surrounded by well-marked hiking trails. The most popular trail is the 6.5 mile-long Trail Loop, considered ‘easy’, and again, dog-friendly.
But the best hikes end with long-lasting memories, and what better way to accomplish that than discovering the beauty of Siskiyou’s hidden waterfalls?
McCloud Falls, home to a series of 3 waterfalls, is the most popular and deemed a “must-visit”, but further away from the lake. Closer to the lake is Faery Falls, a 50-foot high waterfall few tourists know about.
Hedge Creek Falls is likely the easiest to reach as it’s right off I-5, accessible by a ‘short, easy hike’ as one recent visitor put it.
Where To Stay
Mt. Shasta may be quirky but it also serves as a great base with cozy boutique hotels and farm-to-table eateries.
That is if you don’t care to stay on-site in a comfortable wooded cabin at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort or splurge on a spacious chalet at top-rated golf resort, Mount Shasta Resort.
For a true hidden gem, check out the tiny historic town of Dunsmuir just south of the aforementioned Hedge Creek Falls.
Home to The Angler Lodge, boasting a perfect 5.0 Google Rating, guests love the ‘comfy beds’, ‘clean rooms’, and close proximity to Dunsmuir Brewery Works.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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