Water You Up to this Summer?

Redding Summer Water Adventures

Ready to give summer a big, wet kiss? Pucker up! Redding is your summer sweetheart! It’s not just about going to the lake here: It’s about multiple lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, all within 20 minutes of Redding. Thanks to a wet winter, Whiskeytown Lake is filled to the brim and Shasta Lake is not far behind. Go river rafting with a variety of options, including paddle trips with the kids on the Lower Sac or adrenaline-teasing spins down the wilder Trinity River. Either way, you’ll get an eyeful, with views of Mount Shasta, Lassen Peak, and the Cascade Range.

Or, take your H2O adventure to new heights—like sky high!—with Jetovator rides right off the dock. Then take it easy on a sunset stand-up paddle across a mountain lake or with a picnic by a waterfall; Whiskeytown National Recreation Area has four—including gorgeous Crystal Creek Falls. Of course, there’s always the uber-famous Burney Falls, consistently named one of the most beautiful in the entire USA.

Also making a splash: Redding’s affordable summer rates in hotels, B&Bs, and resorts. So, water you up to this summer? Redding for that big, wet kiss?!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

    View
  2. H is for Hawk Hill

    After a nearly year-long closure, Hawk Hill in the legendary Marin Headlands recently emerged with a glow-up. Thank the hearty TLC from the National Park Service. This Golden Gate National Recreation Area gem now has a new trail along with revamped spaces for taking in timeless, grand views.

    View
  3. Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) standing in front of his wood-fire oven at the Sonoma Valley Farmers' Market

    NEW! Walkin' and Talkin': Break Bread, Go On a Panoramic Hike

    What’s a world-traveling, medal-winning baker’s favorite local hike? Weekend Sherpa co-founder Brad Day caught up with Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) at Sonoma’s Friday farmers' market, where his wood-fired loaves draw loyal crowds. Between bites of fresh-baked bread, they talk baking, travel, and why Sonoma's Overlook Trail is one of his favorite quick, panoramic hikes.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling

    You Go, Curl!

    Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.

    View
  2. Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat

    For an ultra-relaxing getaway where you can sit back and soak in some nature and nurture, head to Mendocino and follow this eat, beach, sleep, repeat itinerary (you won't regret it!) ...

    View
  3. This Skunk Doesn’t Stink!

    All aboard for a ride through history—and through air scented with redwood, dewy ferns, forest-fresh breeze, and a bonus snack and beverage bar, fire pit, and short hike. The World-Famous Skunk Train delivers in every category: scenery, greenery, and towering redwoods.

    View
  4. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

    View