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Lake Shasta Caverns: A Subterranean Wonderland

Discover a hidden world of natural beauty at Lake Shasta Caverns, a National Natural Landmark with stunning limestone formations and a fascinating history.

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Explore the depths of Lake Shasta Caverns, a National Natural Landmark formed over millions of years. Accessible by boat and bus, these caverns boast stunning limestone formations and a fascinating history, offering a unique adventure for all ages.

A brief summary to Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark

  • Monday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves navigating over 600 stairs.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the caverns maintain a constant temperature of 58°F (14°C).
  • Book your tour in advance, especially during holidays and weekends, as spots fill up quickly.
  • Arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Lake Shasta Caverns is located approximately 17 miles north of Redding, CA. Take I-5 to exit 695 for Shasta Caverns Road. Follow Shasta Caverns Road for 1.5 miles to the parking lot. Parking is free. Note that the road leading to the caverns is narrow and winding, which may be difficult to navigate for RVs and trailers.

  • Boat

    For those arriving by boat on Shasta Lake, head north on the McCloud River arm. Look for the Lake Shasta Caverns signs on the east side of the lake. Houseboats may park on shore, while smaller boats and personal watercraft can use the dock. Purchase tour tickets at the gift shop. The boat ride to the caverns is included in the tour price.

Unlock the Best of Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark

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Discover more about Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark

Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark invites you to discover a hidden world beneath the surface of Northern California. These natural limestone caves, estimated to be over 200 million years old, showcase a stunning array of geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. The adventure begins with a scenic catamaran cruise across the McCloud arm of Shasta Lake, followed by a short bus ride up a steep mountain grade to the cavern entrance. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the winding passageways and spacious chambers, sharing insights into the geology, history, and formation processes of the caves. Inside, marvel at the intricate details of the cave formations, illuminated by state-of-the-art LED lighting. The highlight of the tour is the Cathedral Room, a vast and ornately decorated chamber that leaves a lasting impression. The caverns maintain a consistent temperature of 58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius) and high humidity. Be prepared to navigate around 600 stairs during the 45- to 60-minute tour. Officially discovered in 1878 by J.A. Richardson, a local fish hatchery employee, the caverns have been open to the public since 1964. The Wintu Tribe likely knew of the caves long before their official discovery. Grace M. Tucker, an attorney, recognized the need to preserve the caverns and obtained sole ownership in 1955. In May 2012, the site was designated a National Natural Landmark.

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