Black Bear Diner

A welcoming downtown crystal shop brimming with gemstones, raw specimens, and handmade treasures. Friendly, knowledgeable, and full of only-in-Mount-Shasta finds — plus aura photography if you're feeling curious.

Skiing and snowboarding in winter, downhill mountain biking in summer. Family-friendly, affordable, and without the chaos or expense of Tahoe.

Start at Castle Lake — glacial water, granite walls, one of the best swimming spots in the area. The trail above leads to Heart Lake, where Mount Shasta fills the entire horizon.