01
Best easy in-town loop
Sacramento River Trail
Downtown & Riverfront • Scenic Riverfront Paved Loop • Best In-Town Walk With Views
A mellow, mostly paved river trail with big views of the Sacramento River and Redding’s landmark Sundial Bridge.
If you only have time for one hike in Redding proper, make it the Sacramento River Trail. The loop offers gentle grades, benches, and shade in spots, so it works for casual walkers, strollers, and runners alike. Go in the early morning or toward sunset for cooler temps and the best light on the water.
02
Waterfall crowd-pleaser
Brandy Creek Falls Trail
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area (West Of Redding) • Forest Waterfall Canyon Trail • Best Waterfall Hike Close To Town
A shaded forest hike that climbs along Brandy Creek to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall and cool pools.
Brandy Creek Falls is a go-to when you want a classic waterfall payoff without an all-day effort. The trail works steadily uphill but stays short enough for most reasonably fit hikers, with plenty of chances to pause along the creek. In summer, this is a cooler, greener escape from Redding’s heat, so start early and expect some company on weekends.
03
Granite peak adventure
Castle Dome Trail, Castle Crags State Park
South Of Redding Along I-5 • Steep Granite Peak Wilderness Trek • Best Big-View Climb
A challenging climb through forest and granite that rewards with sweeping views of the spiky Castle Crags and distant Mount Shasta.
The Castle Dome Trail feels surprisingly wild for being just off the interstate, trading switchbacks and steady elevation gain for true Sierra-style scenery. The final viewpoint delivers a close-up look at the granite spires and a panoramic sweep across the Sacramento River canyon. This is a better pick for experienced hikers comfortable with a stout climb and rocky sections underfoot.
04
High-elevation bucket-list hike
Lassen Peak Trail, Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park (East Of Redding) • High-Elevation Volcanic Summit Trail • Best Iconic Summit Near Redding
A demanding but straightforward climb to the summit of Lassen Peak, with far-reaching views over volcanic lakes, cinder cones, and distant ranges.
When conditions allow, the Lassen Peak Trail is one of Northern California’s classic day-hike summits. The path is well-defined but climbs relentlessly at altitude, so pace yourself and bring layers; wind and weather can change quickly up high. On clear days, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view that puts Redding’s entire mountain backdrop into perspective.
05
Scenic road-trip extension
Burney Falls Loop Trail, McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Northeast Of Redding Near Burney • Short Lush Waterfall And River Loop • Best Road-Trip Side Hike
A short loop that circles one of Northern California’s most photogenic waterfalls and follows a cool, shaded section of river.
Burney Falls is a bit of a drive from Redding, but the payoff is a roaring, spring-fed curtain of water that looks impressive year-round. The loop trail is easy enough for most visitors while still feeling like a real walk in the woods, making it a good choice for mixed-ability groups. Pair it with a scenic drive through the Pit River country to turn the outing into a relaxed day trip.