Triple Bagged

Reddings Three Peaks

04.08.2015

What kind of peak-bagging adventure do you want to have this summer? A short ascent along a dormant volcano? A day hike to a gorgeous panorama of Northern California wilderness? Or a multi-day journey to one of the tallest summits in the lower 48? When Redding is your base camp for adventure, you'll have your choice of all three!

New in Lassen: Thanks to the Reach the Peak restoration project, the popular 2.5-mile (one-way) Lassen Peak Trail will be open for the 2015 hiking season. Switchbacks and some steep rocky sections require good shoes, but the footwork is worth it: vistas up top offer the best perspective of the area's volcanic activity, and the lingering sulfur scent is a reminder that you're standing amidst an active (but dormant) volcano.

Ballyhoo! Shasta Bally is the tallest mountain in the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, and its namesake peak-bagging trail begins at the Whiskeytown Unit—just 10 minutes outside of Redding. The moderately difficult 6-mile round-tripper is suitable for most hikers. You'll top out at 6,209 feet to a panorama that includes Lassen Peak and the town of Redding, along with Mount Shasta, Castle Crags, and the Trinity Alps!

Northern California's Matterhorn: Mount Shasta stands at a commanding 14,162 feet and is one of the most popular non-technical summits in the country. It's a 6-mile (one-way), 7, 200-foot climb that includes a section called Misery Hill and parts that require crampons and an ice ax. Guided services like Shasta Mountain Guides are best bets for this adventure.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View
  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View
  3. Barbary Coast Trail medallion hike in San Francisco

    Medallion Walk SF

    The Barbary Coast Trail is a 3.8-mile historical walk and treasure hunt through San Francisco. Be on the lookout for hubcap-sized bronze medallions placed on the city sidewalks with arrows pointing you in the right direction.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View