01
Best all-around river hike
Sacramento River Trail
Redding Riverfront, South Of Mountain Gate • Paved And Packed-Dirt River Loop With Bridge Views • Scenic Crowd-Pleaser
A classic Redding loop with sweeping river, bridge, and canyon views that stays hikeable almost year-round.
Start near the Sundial Bridge and follow the river as it winds through low canyon walls, with long views and just enough hills to feel like a real hike. The combination of wide pavement, narrower dirt stretches, and multiple access points makes it easy to tailor the distance to your group. Go early or near sunset for cooler temperatures and softer light on the water.
02
Best sunset viewpoint
Chamise Peak Trail
West Of Mountain Gate Off Keswick Dam Road • Singletrack Ridge Climb Through Oak And Chaparral • Big-View Out-And-Back
A steady but manageable climb to a rocky knob with wide-open views of Shasta Dam, Shasta Lake, and Mount Shasta on clear days.
From the trailhead you gain elevation quickly, trading shade for expansive views as the path traverses an open ridge. The final push to the summit feels rugged without being technical, and the payoff panorama is one of the best in the area. Pack water and a light layer—winds at the top can surprise you, especially near sunset.
03
Most iconic landmark walk
Shasta Dam & Upper Sacramento River Trails
Near Shasta Dam, Just North Of Mountain Gate • Mix Of Paved Dam Promenade And Riverside Paths • Family-Friendly Outing With A Big Landmark
Combine a walk across massive Shasta Dam with short riverside trails for an easy outing that still feels dramatic.
Stroll the top of the dam for head-on views of the reservoir and the canyon below, then drop down to nearby paths that follow the upper Sacramento River. The grades are gentle and the scenery changes quickly, making this a good pick for mixed-ability groups. On hot days, the breeze off the water and ready access to your car keep it comfortable.
04
Best easy day trip
Manzanita Lake Loop
Lassen Volcanic National Park, East Of Redding • Gentle Lakeshore Loop With Volcanic Scenery • Relaxed Walk With Postcard Views
A mellow loop around a clear mountain lake with classic reflections of Lassen Peak and plenty of spots to linger.
The wide, mostly flat trail circles Manzanita Lake with constant views of the water and the park's volcanic peaks beyond. It is a true take-your-time outing, with benches, picnic spots, and side angles that photographers love. Plan this for a clear day and it feels like a much bigger alpine adventure without the effort of a summit hike.
05
Best challenging climb
Castle Dome Trail, Castle Crags State Park
Castle Crags State Park, North Along I-5 • Steep Granite Dome Hike Through Old-Growth Forest • Leg-Burner For Experienced Hikers
A stout, rocky ascent that trades shade and switchbacks for up-close encounters with Castle Crags' dramatic granite spires.
From the forested lower trail, the climb ramps up quickly as you work toward the shoulder of Castle Dome, with occasional openings that tease the view to come. The upper sections are steep and rocky, but the jagged Crags rising above the Sacramento River canyon make every step feel worthwhile. Bring plenty of water, sturdy footwear, and a willingness to earn your panorama.