Shasta Caverns: An Underground Wonderland
Discover a hidden world of natural wonders at Lake Shasta Caverns, a unique geological attraction in Northern California.
Lake Shasta Caverns, a National Natural Landmark, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. These limestone caves, estimated to be at least 200 million years old, are filled with a variety of formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, columns, and flowstone. The adventure begins with a scenic catamaran cruise across Shasta Lake, followed by a short bus ride up to the cavern entrance. Knowledgeable guides lead tours through the caverns, sharing insights into the geology, history, and formation processes. The highlight of the tour is the Discovery Room, showcasing a diverse collection of limestone rock formations. The caverns have a rich history, with evidence suggesting that the local Wintu Tribe knew about them long before their official discovery in 1878 by J.A. Richardson. In 1964, the caverns were opened to the public, and have since attracted millions of visitors. The site was declared a National Natural Landmark in May 2012. Visitors should be prepared for a moderately strenuous tour involving around 600 stairs. The cave temperature remains a consistent 58 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, so dressing in layers and wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the cave temperature is a consistent 58 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Book tickets in advance, especially during holidays and weekends, to ensure availability.
- Arrive at least an hour before your scheduled boat departure to increase your chances of securing a spot.
- Consider combining your visit with other activities around Shasta Lake, such as hiking or a dinner cruise.
A brief summary to Shasta Caverns Visitor Center
- 20359 Shasta Caverns Rd, Lakehead, California, 96051, US
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
Lake Shasta Caverns is located approximately 17 miles north of Redding, CA, just off I-5. Take exit 695 to Shasta Caverns Road and follow it for 1.5 miles to the parking lot. Parking is free. From the parking lot, you will need to purchase tickets and take a short boat ride across Shasta Lake, followed by a bus ride to the cave entrance.
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Public Transport
From Sacramento, you can take a Greyhound bus or Amtrak train to Redding. From Redding, you will need to rent a car or take a taxi/rideshare to Lake Shasta Caverns. The address is 20359 Shasta Caverns Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051. The taxi/rideshare from Redding to Lake Shasta Caverns will cost approximately $40-$60. Once you arrive at the parking lot, you will need to purchase tickets and take a short boat ride across Shasta Lake, followed by a bus ride to the cave entrance.
