In Northern California, there’s no shortage of natural beauty – especially when it comes to Castle Lake. From the ocean to the mountains to the deserts and everything in between, you’ll find scores of amazing spots that’ll take your breath away. Among these amazing locales is a plethora of lesser-known areas well worth a visit, including Castle Lake, one of the best lakes in NorCal and a true hidden gem for nature lovers.

Located in the midst of the Shasta Trinity National Forest, Castle Lake is just a short 30-minute drive from the town of Dunsmuir.
Mike Hayes/AllTrails.com
Historians contend that the lake, which now encompasses approximately 47 acres, was formed by glaciers over 10,000 years ago. The water here is crystal clear, plunging to a depth of 120 feet at its deepest point.
All around Castle Lake, a true hidden gem for nature lovers, is a diverse landscape.
Ashtyn Packer/AllTrails.com
Meander around and take in the lush greenery, thickly forested areas, and craggy mountain peaks in all directions as far as the eye can see.
If you’re into hiking, embark upon the aptly named Castle Lake Trail.
Rebecca Duffy/AllTrails.com
The trail is not for the faint of heart, but you have the option of traversing part of it or going for the California gold along the entire 10.2-mile, out-and-back route. The views are breathtaking, so be sure to take lots of photos.

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The Castle Lake Trail offers various offshoots from which to explore different parts of the area.
Tony Tani/AllTrails.com
Each offers a unique aspect of this wilderness area. Little Castle Lake is the "younger sister" to the main lake, while Heart Lake is named after its basic shape. The trail to Mt. Bradley Lookout passes by both of the aforementioned lakes as it climbs dramatically in elevation.
No matter what side of the lake you’re on, you’ll enjoy remarkable views. After all, it's one of the best Northern California lakes.
Tony Tani/AllTrails.com
In the warm weather months, visitors here enjoy fishing, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and other recreational activities.
Even in the winter and when shrouded in clouds, the area is a welcome hidden gem for nature lovers looking to get away from the customary hustle and bustle of life.
Matt Blair/AllTrails.com
Believe it or not, you can actually ice fish here! If you’re up for that kind of adventure, under the frozen surface you’ll find several kinds of fish including rainbow trout and gold shiners, just to name a few. This is just another reason why Castle Lake is one of the best lakes in NorCal.

Although anytime is a good time to come to Castle Lake, it is most popular from about May through October.

Have you been to Castle Lake? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. You can also tell us about your other Northern California lakes via our nomination form for the chance to see your suggestions featured in an upcoming article! While in the area, consider checking out nearby Castle Crags State Park, which offers a variety of hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking, opportunities.

Check out this YouTube video by us at OnlyInYourState to learn about a breathtaking phenomenon at Yosemite National Park’s Horsetail Falls that only happens for two weeks out of the entire year:

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Natural Beauty In Northern California & Related Info

Katie Lawrence | June 21, 2023

What are the most beautiful lakes in NorCal?

Besides Castle Lake, the most beautiful lakes in NorCal are:

  • Sardine Lake

Tucked away in the Sierra Mountains between the Plumas and Tahoe National Forests, this tree-lined lake is a prime spot for fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.

The second-deepest lake in the country, Lake Tahoe is a household name in Northern California - and for good reason. Not only does it offer all sorts of water recreation opportunities, but it's also stunningly beautiful.

  • Volcano Lake

Remote and secluded, Volcano Lake is nestled just off the Pacific Crest Trail near the town of Bassetts. It's an ideal destination for those in search of peace and quiet, as only the sounds of nature can be heard here.

What are the best waterfall hikes in NorCal?

If you love waterfalls as much as I do, you'll adore the best waterfall hikes in NorCal:

As if hiking through the tallest trees on earth wasn't enough already, this 5.3-mile hike leads to the gorgeous Fern Falls, which looks like a tropical paradise with its lush surroundings.

Clocking in at just two miles round-trip, Eagle Lake Trail is almost too easy - especially considering the breathtaking views it offers. The trail leads to Eagle Falls, which is widely considered to be one of the region's most beautiful waterfalls. Hikers can also enjoy a pristine lake, panoramic vistas of Emerald Bay, and more.

This incredible hike leads to not just one, but two remarkably beautiful waterfalls.

 

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Castle Lake, California 96067, USA