Lifestyle blogger Carrie Rad recently shared her experiences from a road trip through Northern California’s Shasta Cascade region. Originally from Nevada, Rad moved to Los Angeles after high school and has long dreamed of exploring the state. Her latest journey began in Siskiyou County and ended in Redding, highlighting several natural attractions along the way.
When asked about the highlights of her trip, Rad said, “Hard to choose but my top two activities were hiking the Bunny Flat Trail, with a stunning view of Mount Shasta, and the day we soaked in mineral water and got relaxing massages at Stewart Mineral Springs.” She noted that Stewart Mineral Springs is now permanently closed.
Rad was struck by how unspoiled she found the area. “It’s naturally stunning. Truly a hidden gem. It surprised me how untouched this area of California really is. Everywhere you go you’re surrounded by beautiful landscapes. I really loved the small town vibes I felt wherever we explored in the Shasta Cascade area,” she said.
She named Lava Beds National Monument and the drive up to Bunny Flats as especially scenic parts of her journey. “It’s a hard choice between the Lava Beds National Monument and the drive up to the Bunny Flats trailhead. Both landscapes are so different. The Lava Beds is massive and unique with lava rocks everywhere you look. On the drive up to Bunny Flats you’re surrounded by pine trees—it’s a magical drive.”
Exploring caves at Lava Beds National Monument left an impression on Rad: “I’ll never forget the Lava Beds National Monument. Exploring the caves was such an adventure. I am hoping to go back someday to explore them further. I recommend checking out the Skull Cave—I never knew a cave could be so beautiful. Try to arrive as the sun is setting; the sun plays on the walls of the cave and it’s truly a gorgeous sight to see.”
Among other notable stops, Rad highlighted Burney Falls as memorable: “A must-absolutely-see destination is Burney Falls. This waterfall left me speechless. It is a very easy trek in so I didn’t expect it to be so massive and captivating. I highly recommend making the stop on your way to or from the airport in Redding.”
For dining options during her travels, Rad recommended The Wheelhouse in Dunsmuir for breakfast: “For a bite to eat in the morning, I highly recommend The Wheelhouse in Dunsmuir. I am particular when it comes to my dirty chai lattes and they do it perfectly there. I also got their biscuits and gravy which were delicious and a perfect way to warm me up before exploring the area.”
Regarding accommodations, she appreciated their proximity to natural attractions: “The accommodations were easy to find and close to where you wanted to be. In an area with lots of beautiful natural attractions, it’s nice to find spots near what you’re interested in seeing and exploring.” She singled out Bridgehouse Bed & Breakfast in Redding for its hospitality: “The accommodation that stood out most to me was Bridgehouse Bed & Breakfast in Redding… Janelle and her husband were so kind and made me the most delicious breakfast before I traveled home.” The property has since closed permanently.
Rad summed up her experience with reference to one of her photos: “My jump of pure joy in this picture sums up the trip pretty well, I think.”
