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Things to do in McCloud
We both love McCloud and the surrounding areas and could not be more excited that you are joining us in this idyllic setting. Expect temps as hot 90 Degrees and as cold as 50 degrees. McCloud sits at just above 3200 feet in elevation at the base of Mount Shasta, a 14,161 ft Stratovolcano, that is one of the world’s root chakras and potentially home to a 7ft tall alien race the Lemurians. If aliens and powerful energy vortexs are not enough, we have put together a list of killer adventures that you might consider.
Go Fishing
The McCloud River is my favorite river. We have reserved a couple of guides if you want to get out on the river and don’t know where to start. All gear can be provided. Many of the guests will be out on the river for the golden stone hatch. Let us know if you like a guide. There is also some wonderful hiking along the McCloud River down the Pacific Crest Trail and through the nature conservancy. The river is in a canyon so don’t expect to get cell service while on the lower McCloud River. There are other places to wet a line in the area but this is one of the best in world.
Take a hike
There are far too many great hike to list (although this website does a fantastic job.) We have jotted down a list of some great trails that we thought you might like.
1. McCloud River Preserve Trail
Distance: 5.2 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Easy (no service and small cars not recommended)
Highlights: A serene trail that meanders through a remote canyon alongside the McCloud River, offering a peaceful hiking experience. The road in is rough so go slow as many tires get popped if you lose traction.
2. Panther Meadows Trail
Distance: Varies (short loops)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Located on Mount Shasta, this trail offers alpine meadows, wildflowers, and panoramic views. It's a sacred site for local Native American tribes.
3. Squaw Valley Creek/ Cabin Creek Trail
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This trail follows Squaw Valley Creek through lush forests and offers opportunities for fishing and swimming.
4. McCloud River (Ash Camp to Ah-Di-Nah)
Distance: 7 Miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This trail follows the McCloud River through lush forests and offers opportunities for fishing and swimming.
5. Lake McCloud Trail
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Trails around Lake McCloud provide scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests, ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.
More Info
Do go chasing waterfalls:
1. McCloud River Falls (Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls)
Distance from McCloud: Approximately 5–10 miles
Description: A trio of picturesque waterfalls along the McCloud River. Lower Falls is easily accessible and popular for swimming. Middle Falls is the largest, offering a 44-foot drop and a wide cascade. Upper Falls is more secluded, featuring a powerful flow through a narrow basalt chute. Visitors can drive to each fall or hike the 3.9-mile out-and-back McCloud Waterfalls Trail.
2. Mossbrae Falls
Distance from McCloud: Approximately 20 miles southwest, near Dunsmuir
Description: A stunning 50-foot waterfall fed by Mount Shasta's glacial springs, cascading over moss-covered rocks. However, accessing the falls requires trespassing along active railroad tracks, which is illegal (but we do it all the time).
3. McArthur–Burney Falls
Distance from McCloud: Approximately 30 miles southeast
Description: A majestic 129-foot waterfall located in McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the falls are spring-fed, ensuring a consistent flow year-round. The park offers accessible trails and scenic viewpoints.
Stuff your face
Who is hungry? I could eat.
Floyd’s Frosty – Get an elk burger and frosty. 'nough said. Julie recommends the corn dog…
Axe and Rose – Nice gastropub in the historic district of McCloud
Sojourn Coffee – Great place to caffeinate
Siskiyou Brew Works – Pizza and Beer