February 7^th – February 13^th      

 

 

SHASTA  

·          Learn the history behind the construction of the Shasta Dam by visiting the Shasta Dam Visitors Center and be sure to take a guided tour.

·          An amazing place to visit is the Castle Crags State Park, where you can witness the enormous and beautiful naturally formed granite towers.

·          The Coleman National Fish Hatchery offers a unique and educational experience by attending one of their self guided tours.

TRINITY

·          You will always find something interesting or inspiring in Weaverville’s Highland Art Center, so come check it out!

·          Pack some snacks, fill up your car, and spend a day exploring the Trinity Heritage Scenic Byway.

·          Come see the Trinity Alps Wilderness Areas snow covered surroundings and pack your camera so you can be ready for that perfect shot.

SISKIYOU

·          If you’re a cross-country skier/snowboarder fanatic, you should check out the Nordic Center just below the Shasta Ski Park.

·          Ice skating is a winter must! Siskiyou’s Ice Rink is being held at Shastice Park on Rockfellow Drive, Mt. Shasta. Come join the fun!

·          Visit Tule Lake for great birdwatching experiences. This is the excellent time for Bald Eagle sightings. 

MODOC

·          Go on an adventure in the Crystal Ice Cave Tours at the Lava Beds National Monument held on winter Saturdays. Call for reservations and times (530) 667-8113.

·          Head to the Warner Mountains, where you can collect obsidian from any of the four designated collection sites.

·          The Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers a great place to view nesting American white pelicans, so make sure to pack your camera.

LASSEN

·          Spend an afternoon snowshoeing along the Nobles Emigrant Trail Loop Snowshoeing Trail, all while enjoying views of Lassen Peak.

·          The Biscar Wildlife Area is a great place for viewing a variety of waterfowl along with other bird species.

·          Susanville Historic Train Depot is the trailhead for the Bizz Johnson Trail. Take a step back into history and view historic photographs of railroad and logging trains that rolled through town. .

PLUMAS

·          Get away from it all this weekend to let loose pent up energy by hitting the Granite Basin Snowmobile Trail in Quincy.

·          Invite a couple friends and make some memories by attending a ranger-led snow shoe walk this Friday at 9am.

·          This Saturday bring your camera and head out to Lake Davis to experience the excitement of the snowmobile poker run.

BUTTE

·          Bring your off road vehicle and get ready for some fun by visiting the Clay Pit State Vehicle Recreation Area in Oroville.

·          See how many different bird species you can spot while walking along one of the many trails located in the Upper Ridge Nature Preserve.

·          If you’re an Antiques collector then visit some of Paradises shops to see what kind of treasures you might stumble across.

TEHAMA

·          This weekend you’ll enjoy this history lesson by visiting the Manton Museum, which is located in an old school house.

·          Bring a fishing pole, pack a lunch and head to the Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area and spend a relaxing afternoon fishing along the shore.

·          Pack up the horses, head to Black Butte Lake and spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the scenic views from horse top.

 

 

 

 

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January 31^st – February 6^th      

SHASTA  

·          Have fun on rainy days by stopping into Need 2 Speed in Redding and race around the indoor track in one of their emission free karts.

·          Try a new way of viewing the Sundial Bridge with Shasta Glide ‘n Ride. They have guided segway personal transporter tours and bike rentals available at Turtle Bay. Call 866-466-4111 for more information.

·          Experience the Lake Shasta Caverns! They are a mysterious and beautiful adventure.

TRINITY

·          J.J. Jackson Memorial Museum at Trinity County Historical Park is full of old mining equipment, Indian displays, Chinese exhibits, and much, much more. It is a fun and educational stop along you’re trip.

·          Spend a day exploring the Joss House State Historic Park in Weaverville. It is the oldest continuously used Chinese Temple in California.

·          Are you a wine enthusiast? Visit Alpen Cellars for tours and tasting along with enjoying their picnic facilities.

SISKIYOU

·          Have fun on an exhilarating snowmobile ride at the Fun Factory. Perfect for friends and the family!

·          For a different kind of lodging try Dunsmuir’s Railroad Park Resort and stay in an antiquie railroad car!

·          Mount Shasta Ski Park just received an abundance of new snow. Head up for a fresh day of skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

MODOC

·          Throw on some winter clothes and take an outing to Lava Beds National Monument.

·          It’s a great time get outside to view a variety of migrating bird species that can be found at the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.

·          In the Medicine Lake Highlands sits unique geological features. Explore the area and see for yourself!

LASSEN

·          Take an adventure on the Sulfur Works Loop Snowshoeing Trail at Lassen Volcanic National Park. It’s great winter fun!

·          Susanville Historic Train Depot is the trailhead for the Bizz Johnson Trail. Take a step back into history and view historic photographs of railroad and logging trains that rolled through town.

·          The Willow Creek Wildlife Area north of Susanville is a great place to visit all the different migratory bird species.

PLUMAS

·          Try something new and go on a dog sled tour through the some of the Plumas County wilderness.

·          Spend a day enjoying the cold crisp air while skiing down the hills at the Lassen National Forest-Stover Mountain along their 8 runs, which are situated on 13 acres.

·          If you’re looking for snowmobiling in this area, try out Cold Water Loop Snowmobile Trail and Mill Creek Snowmobile Trail.

BUTTE

·          The Chico Museum features changing exhibits focusing on the rich and diverse history and culture of Chico and Butte County.

·          The Snow Goose Festival is going on now until January 31^st, so hurry before it’s over!

·          Become engaged in the history behind Bidwell Mansion at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park with their on the hour tours Tuesday-Friday.

TEHAMA

·          Take a driving break and stretch out at the Olive Pit. Enjoy their extended tasting bar full of their delicious olives and other veggies and fruits. Also, sit down and have a meal at their café!

·          Kelly Griggs House Museum in Red Bluff is full of Tehama County’s past. See photographs, Indian artifacts, and authentic Victorian Era antiques.

·          Get out of the house and take a day to visit Mendocino National Forest. Walk on trails, have a picnic, and just sit and take in the serenity of the lake.

 

 

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24 Things To Do This Week In The Shasta Cascade Region

January 24^th – January 30^st     

SHASTA  

·          See amazing views of the Shasta Cascade region that you normally wouldn’t be able to see by taking a helicopter tour with Air Shasta.

·          You can find the largest lava tube, which was formed by local eruptions that is located in Old Station. Visit and see for yourself!

·          Enjoy an evening sampling some of Anselmo Vineyards wines in a unique wine tasting room, over looking the sprawling countryside.

TRINITY

·          Lewiston Lake is a great place to view a variety of wildlife whether it’s bald eagles, mink, or belted kingfishers.

·          Spend an afternoon cross country skiing along Scott Mountain.

·          Stop into the Highland Art Center, which has an assortment of art including paintings, sculpture, hand blown glass and much more!

SISKIYOU

·          Visit the Shasta Valley Wildlife Area near Montague to view a wide assortment of local wildlife and if you’re lucky you might even see a porcupine.

·          Pack a lunch and attend the Winter Waterfowl and Bald Eagle Field Trip on Jan. 30^that the Klamath Wildlife.

·          Come see for yourself, the stunning Living Memorial Sculpture that’s dedicated to veterans located just outside of Weed.

MODOC

·          Modoc National Forest offers a variety of terrain for both snowmobiles and cross country skiers.

·          It’s a great time get outside to view a variety of migrating bird species that can be found at the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.

·          Grab a pair of snow shoes and get ready for an adventure to Patterson Lake, which is a pristine, emerald green colored lake.

LASSEN

·          Attend one of the Eagle Lake Ranger Districts snow shoe walks Jan. 28^th from 3pm-4:30pm.

·          For bird watching enthusiasts, Honey Lake is an excellent place to visit this time of year for spotting Bald Eagles and many other species of wintering waterfowl.

·          Spend an afternoon walking around the Historic town of Susanville.

PLUMAS

·          Try something new and go on a dog sled tour through the some of the Plumas County wilderness.

·          Spend a day enjoying the cold crisp air while skiing down the hills at the Lassen National Forest-Stover Mountain along their 8 runs, which are situated on 13 acres.

·          If you are interested in finding a great place to take some great winter landscape shots then visit the Little Grass Valley Reservoir.

BUTTE

·          Come attend the History of Barbed Wire, Jan. 29^th, which is one of Bolt’s Antique Tools educational presentations.

·          For great music and a fantastic time head to Oroville for the Old Time Fiddler’s Jam, January 24^th from 12pm-4pm.

·          Witness the arrival of millions of wintering birds by attending the 11^th Annual Snow Goose Festival of the Pacific Flyway Jan. 28^th-Jan. 31^st

TEHAMA

·          Get outside and enjoy the view of the Sacramento Riverwhile walking along one of the trails that can be found at the Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area.

·          Dust off your cowboy boots and head for the Tehama District Fair Grounds for the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale going on Jan. 26^th-Jan. 30^th

·          Visit the Payne’s Creek Recreation Area and take a walk along one of their trails to see if you can spot some local wildlife.

 

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December 6^th - December 12^th   

SHASTA  

·          Check out the new Christmas Spectacular at the Shasta County Fairgrounds for a chance to see a great Holiday Lights show, vendors, ride a train, even go Ice Skating at their indoor skating rink!

·          Join Turtle Bay Exploration Park for an in depth look at the animal kingdom from a different point of view.  Check out the Scoop on Poop exhibit going on now through January 10, 2010.

·          Bring the kids for Ornament Making at the Atrium off Market St. in Redding Dec. 12^th from 12-5pm 

TRINITY

·          Pack up the family and some Hot Cocoa and go sledding in the Trinity Alps Wilderness.

·          If you feel in the mood for some history then visit the Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, featuring Chinese art, objects, a Chinese Taoist temple and more.

·          There will be a showing of the Rotary Classic Film Series: Cool Hand Luke at the Trinity Theatre Dec. 13^th 1-3pm

SISKIYOU

·          Come and wander the streets in old town Mt. Shasta while enjoying the picturesque views.

·          Spend an evening on the Shasta Sunset Dinner Train before it’s too late! Their last day will be Dec. 31^st

·          For the fisherman on your christmas list stop into Ted Fay Fly Shop in Dunsmuir.

MODOC

·          The Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to go and watch the various waterfowl including Canadian geese, ducks, and swans.

·          Drive by and check out the I’Sot Life-Size Holiday Roadside Exhibit in Canby.

·          If you would like to learn some local history then visit the Modoc County Historical Museum

LASSEN

·          Start a new tradition by picking up a Christmas tree permit at the California Welcome Center and head for the snow to cut your own Christmas tree.

·          The Chester Museum and Library holds many historical memories waiting to be discovered

·          Now is the time to head outside and enjoy winter activities such as snow shoeing in Lassen Park with the family. For more information visit www.shastacascade.com

PLUMAS

·          Take your pick this week on how to get into the Holiday Spirit! Check out the Wassail Bowl in Quincy on Friday, then enjoy the Santa Train in Portola on Saturday! 

·          Enjoy bird watching? Lake Almanor has one of the largest populations of wintering eagles and osprey.

·          Going on a sleigh ride is a unique way to experience some of the winter’s beauty. You can contact Giddy-up-and-Go in Vinton at (530) 906-7130 or contact Pitchfork Cattle Co. (530) 993-4636

BUTTE

·    Celebrate Chico Community Ballet’s 30^th season with the tale of The Sleeping Beauty. Performances on Friday and Saturday (12/11 - 12/12) at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday (12/12 – 12/13) at 2:00 p.m.

·    Check out the Christmas Jug Band live in Paradise Saturday at the Paradise Performing Arts Center. Doors open at 7:00p.m,

·          Explore the Bidwell Mansion in Chico with evening Christmas tours (12/12 – 12/13).

TEHAMA

·          Stop by and visit the Christmas Spectacular at the State Theatre in Red Bluff now until Dec. 27th

·          Come and enjoy the wonders of House of Design, one of Red Bluffs hidden secrets.  Open year round, located on 909 Jefferson St.  (530) 527-8844

·          Come bring the family and explore the Sacramento River Discovery Center in Red Bluff!

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Christmas tree hunts are a great way to spend some quality time with the family while hiking through the stunningly beautiful and glistening white wilderness. Bundle up and bring some gloves. You never know when an impromptu snowball fight might spring up. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa or homemade chili to stave off the cold. You could even bring a sled or two while you head out into the forests in search of that perfect tree.

But where to find that perfect tree?

The Shasta Cascade Region is covered with prime Christmas tree hunting territory. Three of the best places to go are Shasta, Trinity and Lassen Forests. But with so many places to choose from, how can you tell where to go?

Here are some tips for making the decision less painful:

Picking out the perfect Christmas tree depends largely on what you are looking for. You have to know what you want in order to know where to go. Stop and think about how you will be decorating the tree.
- Do you have large ornaments that require space between the branches?
- Will you be trying to fit garland and twinkle lights, or icicles?
- Perhaps you have smaller ornaments and twinkle lights and need a bushier tree to fill in the blanks.

• Douglas Firs are great for smaller ornaments as they are dense and bushy. They are also very easy to find as they grow at lower altitudes and can be found along most of the highways running through the National Forests. These are great for a short trip, especially if you are looking to avoid snow or long hikes.

• White firs are a bit less bushy and their branches are stronger because they grow at higher altitudes than Douglas Firs. They are good for any size ornaments because they are a bit more spread out and can hold twinkle lights.

• For many families, the Christmas tree of choice is the Silvertip, or Red Fir. Of the three mentioned, these trees are the least bushy and the strongest, making them great for piling on the decorations. While many people prefer this type of tree, the silvertip is the hardest to come by as they grow in the higher elevations, often requiring a bit more of a hike and even a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Your hunt will need to begin at at least 5,000 ft. But for the more adventurous family, it makes for great sport.

WHEN BEGINING YOUR JOURNEY:

- You will need a  tree cutting permit issued by the USFS.  The Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association has permits for sale!  Stop by for all your pre-hunting preparations.
-don’t forget to bring a bow saw, rope, tarp, and shovel for cutting and securing the tree.
-Be prepared for snow. Carry chains and if at all possible, 4 wheel drive vehicle is best.
-Pack plenty of food, water and warm dry clothing.

If you are heading out to Lassen National Forest:

- There are great places along highway 44 to find Douglas Firs. For the family with smaller children, the area around Gomaz Campground is a great place to hunt and play without having to hike too far.

- Or you could head up to the Bogard area and get in some sledding and snow play while you are at it.

- For White and Red Firs, Ashpan Snowmobile Park is a great place to hunt, with easy access to Lost Creek, Red Lake and Bunchgrass.

- Check out the North Battle Creek Reservoir area for Silvertips, just 6 miles up forest Road 16.

-Just East of Old Station is another popular place for White Firs, around the Baker lake area up 32N56.

If you are going west into Trinity National Forest:

- Papoose Gulch Trail, which connects the Brandy Creek Falls trail to the Boulder Creek Trail out near Whiskeytown, is a great place to go for white firs and silvertips if you are willing to hike.

- The Scott Mountain area offers a great selection of trails to choose from for finding white firs and silvertips including Mill Creek Lake, Tangle Blue Lake and Eastern and Upper Boulder Lakes.

- Hayfork Summit is a great place to go because it is a high altitude but is also very road accessible. While you will still need to be prepared for the weather, not as much hiking is necessary. Just north of the summit and south of Big Bar, Hayfork Bally is a very popular place to go as well, though 4WD is recommended as the roads get tougher.

- Dubakella out Wild Mad Rd. is a very popular place for both Silvertips and White Firs. Most Silvertips are found above the 5,000 ft. mark. Be prepared for snow with chains or 4WD.

If you are going north into Shasta National Forest:

- There are some great places around Castle Crags SP for all three kinds of trees.
For White Fir and Silvertip, try up around Castle Lake and Gumboot Lake. Again, you are going to want to be above the 5,000 ft marker for the better trees so bundle up.

- Another great place is Military Pass around the back of Mt. Shasta off Highway 97. This is a very popular area.

- Pilgrim Creek Rd near McCloud is also a great place to go for White Firs the road is maintained up to the snowmobile park for those with less adventurous vehicles.

For more information on purchasing Christmas Tree Cutting Permits, or for questions on the tree cutting process, Contact:

The Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association

(530)365-7500

1699 Hwy. 273, Anderson, CA 96007

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