Step apart, Tahoe!
There’s one other NorCal lake hideaway with fewer crowds, unbounded nature, and no snooty vibes — a spot the place you will not discover thousand-dollar millionaires attempting to outdo one another.
In truth, this area of California leans extra on the Boho spectrum the place tie-dye shirts are commonplace, #vanlife possible outpaces the true property market, and a deep appreciation for nature is virtually a neighborhood legislation.

Sure, you possibly can nonetheless guide a rustic cabin with a crackling hearth and gorgeous panoramic views, however there aren’t any flashy casinos and superstar chef eating places as you may discover in glamorous Tahoe.
This spring (or summer time), the lesser-known Lake Siskiyou is looking your identify because the very definition of a tranquil hideaway.
Unwind In California’s Best Kept Secret
While there is a sure portion of vacationers (possible aged 25 and below) searching for out the prettiest seashores to show into their rager headquarters, one other portion (like me) enjoys a quieter escape with out the thumping bass and that one broken-record drunk “woo!” lady.

That’s the place Lake Siskyou comes into play as one in all California’s most serene escapes, but largely unknown.
Located close to Mt. Shasta, an eccentric city stuffed with New Age retailers, religious seekers, and outside adventures, Lake Siskyou is the area’s vibrant spot in what outsiders sometimes take into account a kooky haven of misfits.
Mt. Shasta’s shameless “hippie” vibes could be a deterrent to some vacationers, however Lake Siskiyou itself is not lined with crystal retailers simply because it is in shut distance.

The lake is an enormous draw from native Northern Californians in summer time, making spring a good time to go to to benefit from the pristine crystal-clear waters excellent for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and/or renting a boat.
And in the event you resolve Lake Siskiyou is your spring street journey vacation spot, be at liberty to deliver Fido alongside. Dogs are allowed to tag alongside (with a most 6-foot leash). It’s a ruff life; puppers deserve a vacay too.
Before planning, simply know March continues to be chilly. Aim for April by early June, the place temps start to hit the mid 60’s in April and high out within the low 80’s in June earlier than the native crowds take over.
‘Sacred’ Mountains And Waterfalls: Lake Siskiyou Is Made For Exploring
While Austin and Portland each adopted the monikers of ‘maintaining their metropolis bizarre’, the identical may very well be stated for the city of Mt. Shasta.

Siskiyou County’s Native Americans have lengthy believed their mountains to be sacred, and who can blame them? Mount Shasta is a sight to behold.
Of course, it would not assist that its snow-capped peak, typically shrouded in clouds, provides to its mystique.
Legend has it the mountain is a hotspot for UFO sightings and permeates a religious power.
So, now you would possibly perceive how Mt. Shasta has in the end turn into a city of healers, religious guides, artists, and free thinkers who do not conform to society’s unwritten guidelines.
Looking up on the mountain backdrop, it is primarily an open invitation to scratch your wanderlust itch and discover the world nevertheless you see match.

The lake itself is surrounded by well-marked mountaineering trails. The hottest path is the 6.5 mile-long Trail Loop, thought-about ‘straightforward’, and once more, dog-friendly.
But the perfect hikes finish with long-lasting reminiscences, and what higher technique to accomplish that than discovering the fantastic thing about Siskiyou’s hidden waterfalls?
McCloud Falls, dwelling to a collection of three waterfalls, is the most well-liked and deemed a “must-visit”, however additional away from the lake. Closer to the lake is Faery Falls, a 50-foot excessive waterfall few vacationers learn about.
Hedge Creek Falls is probably going the best to succeed in because it’s proper off I-5, accessible by a ‘quick, straightforward hike’ as one latest customer put it.
Where To Stay

Mt. Shasta could also be quirky nevertheless it additionally serves as an incredible base with cozy boutique motels and farm-to-table eateries.
That is in the event you do not care to remain on-site in a snug wooded cabin at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort or splurge on a spacious chalet at top-rated golf resort, Mount Shasta Resort.
For a real hidden gem, take a look at the tiny historic city of Dunsmuir simply south of the aforementioned Hedge Creek Falls.
Home to The Angler Lodge, boasting an ideal 5.0 Google Rating, company love the ‘cozy beds’, ‘clear rooms’, and shut proximity to Dunsmuir Brewery Works.

Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No advertisements, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where vacationers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even discover like-minded journey buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your e mail tackle to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s newest breaking journey information, straight to your inbox.
This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the creator’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, accredited or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the submit.