Redding to Roll?

Redding 2015 Spring Vacation

It was Groundhog Day last week, and you know what the little guy hinted at? It's going to be an awesome spring in Redding! (Seriously, he was very specific this year.) Redding is indeed the second sunniest city in the entire country with over 300 bluebird sunny days a year. And its setting couldn't be better: miles of trails, mountains all around, a river running right through it, and national parks close by. You're literally surrounded on three sides by millions of acres of public lands like Lassen Volcanic National Park, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Mount Shasta, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Blooming scenery makes biking in Redding extra special during spring. The Sacramento River Trail is a favorite for casual bikers and families. More serious cyclists will love the Dam to Bridge ride (aka the Sacramento River National Recreation Trail), a 34 miler from Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam (and ranked the seventh best trail in California). The paved route has fantastic views of the river, and all things Shasta: Mount Shasta, Shasta Dam, and Shasta Lake. Mountain bikers shouldn't miss the Mule Ridge Pass trails in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, just 10 minutes outside Redding and home to a beautiful lake for watersports, including fishing. Redding is the only West Coast town to be named among the Top 10 fishing destinations in North America. Who's the best fisher among you? Find out on a guided adventure. Redding for spring?

TIP: Don’t miss Redding Unrestricted (April 24 to May 2)! Why "unrestricted"? Because you can do it all: Lemurian Shasta Classic mountain bike race, Kool April Nites classic car show, Color Vibe 5K, Whiskeytown Waterfall Challenge, National Park Week, the Whole Earth and Watershed Festival, and much more.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View
  2. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View
  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View
  2. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  3. Bright Point of View

    Here's a way to brighten your day: Head to Point Reyes Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1870 to help warn mariners of the navigational hazard that we now call Point Reyes, the lighthouse was handed over to the National Park Service after serving for 105 years.

    View
  4. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View