Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail, a designated National Scenic Trail, traverses the Intermountain Area. From Lassen Volcanic National Park, the trail follows Hat Creek to Burney Falls State Park and then heads north, crossing the McCloud River just south of Mt Shasta. The trail is excellent for day hikes and scenic vistas. Visit the website at
www.pcta.org.
Waterfall Viewing
The Intermountain Area is renowned for it's waterfalls, notably Burney Falls in McArthur Burney Falls State Park. About twenty minutes north of the Lodge, the park is particularly scenic and has a lovely sandy beach on Lake Britton for swimming. Visit the Park's website for more details:
www.burney-falls.com .
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Just an hour's drive south from the Lodge, Lassen Park is a grand spot for a day trip to hike, sightsee, and enjoy the alpine beauty of the park. See all the Park's features at
www.nps.gov/lavo .
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
Ahjumawi is unique in many ways: it is a boat-in only facility and lightly-visited. It offers remarkable views of the Fall River Valley and the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for a hike or a picnic. The remains of the Native American fish traps provide an interesting cultural perspective. See photos and other Park information at
www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=464 .
Birding
Eastern Shasta County is an exceptional birding area. In the spring and the fall, in particular, it's possible to see 50 to 60 species in a day. With such a variety of habitats, including so many lakes, streams, and wetlands, vast numbers of waterfowl stop to rest and feed on their migrations. Notable resident and breeding birds include nesting bald and golden eagles and osprey, sandhill cranes, and American avocets. Prairie falcons and peregrine falcons nest in the canyons of the Pit River. Goshawks and spotted owls may be seen and heard in the forests. The Ash Creek Wildlife Area, a few miles east of Fall River Mills, is home to a great number of species. Visit
www.wintuaudubon.org
Bicycling
Miles and miles of logging roads and trails offer exceptional mountain biking adventures. Several of the Lodge guides are avid bikers and are happy to share information about their favorite rides. Road bike riders will find the Fall River Valley, with its miles of mostly flat paved roads, a real pleasure to explore. If you're particularly enthusiastic, the Fall River Century Ride, a 100 mile tour of the valley and the surrounding area, happens every July. Visit
www.burneychamber.com for a look at all the area's attractions.