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Mount Shasta City: Off the Beaten Track

© Mary Ellen Bradshaw

While driving down the I-5 through scenic Northern California, I look forward to a stop in my favorite city along this route. The splendid mountain, which towers over the town, of the same name, can be seen many miles away.

Be it for a full meal or coffee and a fabulous whole wheat apple turnover at the Bagel Café, Bakery and Juice Bar, or an overnight stay in one of the small and sometimes quaint Motels, this small town is a warm friendly, welcoming place to stop and regroup. Situated at the foot of Mount Shasta, the second largest mountain in the US at 14,162 feet, and approximately 60 miles from the California/Oregon border, Mount Shasta City is indeed a special place.

I discovered the Bagel Café, some years ago, while travelling south with Julie, my daughter. Now, a stop there is a must. Peter and I arrived there one Saturday evening and not only was the food in this coffee house good, but we were entertained with live music and made welcome by friendly patrons. Lily's is another treasured find in this city. Wonderful, gourmet meals are served there, including one of the best salads I have eaten. I would love the recipe!

Another favorite thing to do when in Mt Shasta City is to drive up the mountain road. There are many vista points with magnificent views. To the West are the Eddy Mountains, Southwest the Sacramento River Canyon and South is a limited view of Mount Lassen. From there you can take the unpaved, Sand Flat Road through a rare red fir forest back to the highway. This route is not for the faint of heart.

A visit to Mount Shasta City Park is also worthwhile. From Lake Street if you drive north on N.Mt.Shasta Blvd.to Nixon Rd, then cross the railroad tracks and turn right into the Park. Here you will see the headwaters of the Sacramento River.

Clear icy water spurts from Big Spring. It comes from a lava tube deep inside the mountain. This water flows into Cold Creek, a feeder stream of the Sacramento River. It flows 270+ miles to the Golden Gate. There are hiking trails that wind through protected areas in the park, which feature native plants. Playing fields, playgrounds, picnic tables, barbecues, a gazebo and public rest rooms are easily accessible.

The domestic spring water used by the cities, surrounding the foot of Mount Shasta is so pure that it requires no filtering or other treatment.