Now here’s a Northern California trail everyone can hike. The Shasta Dam Trail in Northern California is a short, looped trail that goes over Shasta Dam. With incredible views and a chance to learn something new, you can have a little adventure by exploring this little-known overlook. Northern California hiking trails don’t get much better than this.

The Shasta Dam Trail is a 1.4-mile trail that can be completed in about a half hour.
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This out-and-back trail can accommodate bikers and hikers, as well as people with strollers or wheelchairs. You’ll get a good look at the dam and its spillways along the way.
While on this short trail, there are many beautiful landscapes to enjoy. From this trail, you can take in a marvelous view of the Sacramento River as it snakes through the mountainous region.
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And the bright blue of Shasta Lake and its rust-colored shores with Mount Shasta in the background. There are many photo opportunities on what is one of the best hikes in Northern California.
Construction on the dam was completed in 1945.
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The concrete dam is 602 feet tall and holds back water to form the massive reservoir known as Shasta Lake. When the dam releases water it is sent through the Shasta Powerplant, producing hydroelectric power for the 15-state western power grid.

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It's worth checking out the Shasta Dam Visitor Center. In fact, you might want to start here before your hike to learn more about what you’ll be looking at as you walk across the dam.
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The Visitor Center is located near the trailhead. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This is a nice little hike that for some reason many people don’t know about. It’s usually not crowded, and if you visit during a weekday it’s possible you may not see many people.
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There is not much shade on this hike, so be prepared with water and a hat, especially if it’s a hot day (and Shasta can get hot!). There is plenty of parking at the trailhead.
There are so many fun things to do in the Lake Shasta area throughout the year. In the summer, Shasta Lake is known as the house boating capital of the world.
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You can rent luxurious houseboats and sleep on the water. The Shasta area is also home to the beautiful Mount Shasta. There are many hiking trails around the area where you can find some stunning views of the lake and mountains.

 

This paved trail is a great way to get outside, see some incredible views, and possibly learn something new. Have you visited the Shasta Dam Trail or the Visitor Center? What do you think are the best hiking trails in NorCal? Let us know in the comments. If you want some easier hiking trails, check out these short hiking trails in Northern California.

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More to Explore

Beautiful Places In Northern California

Will Suphan | February 07, 2024

What are the most beautiful natural places in Northern California?

The most beautiful natural places in Northern California include:

  • Lake Tahoe. This is a nationally famous lake and people have been taking trips here for generations. 
  • Redwood National Park. The trees here are massive giants and are the tallest trees on the planet. Taking a drive through this area will be something to remember. 
  • Point Reyes National Seashore. This is a natural sanctuary with amazing ocean views from stunning oceanside cliffs. 
  • Trinity Alps Wilderness. This is an area that looks as though no human has ever set foot there. While many do, it has a pristine beauty that can’t be overstated.

Find out more about the most beautiful natural places in Northern California. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California?

The most incredible natural attractions in Northern California include:

  • North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. The rolling meadows and fields here contain vibrant wildflowers like lupines and poppies.
  • Mount Shasta. This stunning mountain is replete with majestic natural scenery and is a favorite place for hiking, swimming, boating, seeing waterfalls, and more.
  • Castle Crags State Park. The jagged granite peaks of this rugged mountain range were formed millions of years ago by glaciers.
  • Burney Falls. Located in the McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park, these lush waterfalls with bright turquoise waters are quite a sight.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California. 

What are the most peaceful places in Northern California?

The most peaceful places in Northern California include:

  • Stillwater Cove Regional Park. This is a 210-acre preserve with forests, meadows, and a secret beach. Come here to get away from it all.
  • Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Located in the Klamath Basin near the Oregon border, this vast expanse of wetlands is quite serene.
  • Nisene Marks State Park. There are 30 miles of trails from the sea cliffs into the redwood forests and it’s utterly gorgeous.
  • Drakes Beach. This is a secluded beach set against limestone cliffs where you can see elephant seals frolicking about.

Discover more of the most peaceful places in Northern California.

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Featured Addresses
Shasta Dam Visitors Center, 16349 Shasta Dam Blvd, Shasta Lake, CA 96019, USA