01
Best waterfall climb
Brandy Creek Falls Trail
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, East Of Ono • Shaded Creek And Waterfall Trail • Classic Local Favorite
A cool, forested climb along Brandy Creek to a multi-tiered waterfall that feels far wilder than its drive suggests.
From Ono, this is one of the quickest ways to get into classic Whiskeytown scenery, with a steady uphill trail that never feels too technical. The route follows the creek through mixed forest, crossing small bridges before ending at the photogenic falls, where rock benches and mist make it a natural turnaround spot. It is a great choice on warm days when you want shade and moving water.
02
Closest quick walk
Clear Creek Gorge Overlook Trail
Clear Creek Greenway Near Igo • Short Canyon Rim Walk With Overlooks • Best Quick Stop Close To Ono
A short, mostly level path to viewpoints over Clear Creek’s rocky gorge, ideal when you want scenery without a big hike.
Just down the road from Ono, this little trail packs in big views of turquoise pools and boulder-strewn rapids. The path is well-defined and family-friendly, with railings and benches that make it easy to linger and watch the water below. It is a natural add-on to errands in Igo or a low-effort way to catch sunset over the canyon.
03
Secluded falls mission
Boulder Creek Falls Trail
South Side Of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area • Forest Canyon Trail To A Secluded Falls • Quiet Escape From Summer Crowds
A longer but mellow walk through deep forest to one of Whiskeytown’s most tucked-away waterfalls.
Compared with Brandy Creek, the Boulder Creek route feels more remote and lightly traveled, with stretches where you may not see another hiker. The trail rolls through mossy forest and along the creek before ending at a tall, narrow falls that drops into a cool grotto. It is a good pick when lake areas feel busy but you still want a destination-style hike near Ono.
04
Big-view summit loop
Kanaka Peak Trail
Upper Whiskeytown Foothills • Ridge And Summit Loop With Big Views • Top Pick For A Longer Workout
A stout half-day hike that climbs to a rocky summit with sweeping views toward Ono, the Trinity Alps, and Mount Shasta on clear days.
Kanaka Peak feels like a true mountain hike without the long drive into higher ranges, combining forested switchbacks with airy ridge walking. The final stretch to the summit is exposed, rewarding the effort with a wide panorama over Whiskeytown Lake, the surrounding foothills, and distant snowfields. Locals use it as a conditioning hike when they are training for bigger trips but still want to be home by afternoon.
05
Best in-town stretch
Sacramento River Trail
West Side Of Redding • Paved Riverfront Path With Bridges And Bluffs • Best For Relaxed In-Town Miles
A scenic, mostly paved path that winds along the Sacramento River, perfect for easy walks, long training miles, or mixed bike-and-hike outings.
When you want a change from dirt roads and oak woodland, the river trail offers a civilized loop with constant water views and plenty of access points. Starting near the Sundial Bridge, you can piece together shorter out-and-backs or a longer circuit that crosses high above the river on graceful bridges. It is an especially good option in shoulder seasons or after storms, when unpaved foothill trails can be muddy.