Castle Lake & Heart Lake
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.
Two Lakes, One Iconic View
Tucked into the granite high country southwest of town, Castle Lake is one of the area's most beloved alpine lakes: a deep, clear glacial pool ringed by dramatic cliffs, and you can drive right to its shore. It's a beautiful spot to swim, paddle, fish, or spread out a picnic with the water and rock walls as a backdrop.
If you're craving a little more, the short trail to Heart Lake climbs the ridge above Castle Lake. It's a steep (but brief) round trip to a tiny heart-shaped lake famous for offering the finest views of Mount Shasta anywhere. On a calm day the mountain mirrors perfectly in its shallow water, and because the small lake warms quickly in summer, it's a perfect place for a dip.
Whether you keep it easy at Castle Lake or work for the view at Heart Lake, it's one of the most scenic half-days our region offers, just a short drive from the Inn.
More adventures.
ALL ADVENTURES →
Twenty minutes down to a thirty-foot waterfall you can walk behind. One of the easiest, most satisfying outings in the area.
Tucked inside Native Grounds Nursery, it genuinely feels like you've escaped somewhere else: pond, shade, birds, ten yards from the boulevard. Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads complement a rotating selection of local craft beers on tap. Arrive early, they sell out.
Mount Shasta's complete outfitter for climbers, skiers, hikers, backpackers, and cyclists. They also issue summit permits and run a current-conditions hotline for the mountain. Far from just a gear store, it's probably the most important shop in the county for anyone heading up.
Ask our concierge
Tell us your day.
We'll plan the rest.
From summit logistics to a quiet picnic spot we don't put on the map — the front desk has been doing this for years. Send us a note before you arrive, or stop by when you check in.