San Francisco to Mount Shasta: 3-Day Scenic Nature Escape
About This Trip
Set off from the vibrant city of San Francisco and venture north through rolling hills, lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and volcanic wonders. This three-day route is crafted for those who crave open roads and spectacular scenery, with stops for hiking, scenic photography, and refreshing water activities. Each day balances laid-back drives (perfect for motorcycles) with time to savor the outdoors. Pet-friendly stays and activities ensure your four-legged friend enjoys the journey as much as you do.
Designed around:
Trip Route and Map
Click on the map above to open the route in Google Maps.
Route Overview
Trip Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
San Francisco to Lake Berryessa: From City Skyline to Blue Lagoons
Kick off with a sunrise ride over the Golden Gate Bridge, then curve through wine country and classic NorCal valleys. Enjoy lakeside hiking, panoramic viewpoints, and swimming opportunities.
Stops
Start from San Francisco, CA
Begin your journey here
Golden Gate Bridge
Start your morning crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. The early light is perfect for stunning bay photos, and motorcycle riders can soak in the breeze and iconic skyline.
There’s a special motorcycle-only lane at the tolls. Early morning means less traffic and more room for pets to stretch legs at Vista Points.
Helen Putnam Regional Park
Stretch your legs with a short hike in this low-key, pet-friendly park near Petaluma. Rolling hills and oak groves offer lovely photo spots and a peaceful escape from urban bustle.
Leashed dogs welcome on all trails; stop by downtown Petaluma for coffee and pastries if you have time.
Lake Berryessa Oak Shores Day Use Area
Arrive mid-day for a lakeside picnic, swimming, or paddleboarding. Oak-dotted hills loom above this sparkling reservoir, and trails skirt the shore for hikes or photo stops.
Pet-friendly beach area—bring a collapsible water bowl for dogs. Canoe/kayak rentals available in summer.
Clear Lake State Park
Cruise further north for Clear Lake’s blue expanse ringed by volcanic hills. Short nature trails, lakeside relaxation, and more swimming make this a favorite Northern California stop.
Dogs allowed on leash in campgrounds and day use areas. Great golden hour photography with Mount Konocti in the background.
Tallman Hotel
End your day at this charming historic hotel in Upper Lake. Pet-friendly rooms with a classic small-town vibe and secure motorcycle parking.
Book a pet-friendly room in advance as summer weekends fill up fast. Enjoy dinner on the shaded patio—local farm-to-table fare is a must.
Clear Lake to Redding: Waterfalls and Whiskeytown Wonders
Journey northeast through hidden valleys and forests. Marvel at dramatic waterfalls, take a hike in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, and discover hidden swimming holes.
Stops
Start from Tallman Hotel
Continue your adventure from here
Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
Start with a pet-friendly walk through marshlands teeming with birds, wildflowers, and gentle riparian forests—perfect for a relaxed morning hike.
Leashed dogs welcome. Look for turtles sunning near the bridges in early summer.
Lower Falls, McCloud River
Pause to hike to the photogenic Lower Falls, a lush spot along the McCloud River. Easy trails hug emerald pools with cool mist—perfect for a picnic lunch.
Dogs can swim in the river. Early summer brings the best waterfall flow and wildflowers along the trail.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area (Brandy Creek Beach & Trail)
Soak up the sun, swim, or kayak at Brandy Creek Beach. Tackle the moderate Whiskeytown Falls hike (pet-friendly on leash), with chances for nature photography and quiet forest tranquility.
Parking fills up by mid-afternoon in summer. Bring cash for day-use fee. Rentals for paddleboards and kayaks are available nearby.
Oxford Suites Redding
Rest up with pet-friendly accommodations and a relaxing outdoor pool. Secure parking for motorcycles and plenty of dinner options nearby.
Several pet-friendly restaurants within walking distance. Request a ground-floor room for easy pet access.
Redding to Mount Shasta: Volcanic Marvels and Mountain Majesty
Ride north into Shasta-Trinity forests. Discover picturesque falls, explore lava flows, and finish at Mount Shasta’s base with one last lakeside hike.
Stops
Start from Oxford Suites Redding
Continue your adventure from here
Burney Falls (McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park)
Marvel at the famed ‘Niagara of the West.’ Catch gorgeous morning light as mist dances above turquoise pools—one of Northern California’s most photogenic scenes.
Leashed dogs allowed on most park trails but not on the falls overlook itself (take turns for photos). Arrive early—parking fills by mid-morning on weekends.
Lake Siskiyou Trail
Circle beneath the gaze of Mount Shasta on this beautiful trail hugging the lake’s edge. Enjoy photography, hiking, and refreshing dips—views are unbeatable on a clear summer day.
Dogs welcome on leash (and in the water at the north shore). Pack a picnic for a lunch with a view of Shasta’s snowy summit.
Mount Shasta Downtown & Headwaters Spring
Celebrate your journey in Mount Shasta town with local coffee or a bite to eat. Visit the city park to sip famously pure spring water bubbling from the mountain’s base.
Many local businesses welcome pets with treats and water bowls. Fill your bottles at the Headwaters Spring for a lasting souvenir.
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you go
Best Time to Visit
June through September, when mountain passes, lakes, and hikes are clear of snow and days are longest. Wildflowers bloom through mid-July.
Recommended Vehicle
Motorcycle or car. Avoid RVs or trailers as some roads are winding and parking is limited at trailheads.
Charging & Gas Stations
Frequent gas stations up to Redding; fill up before leaving town for longer forest stretches (especially near Shasta and Burney Falls).
Cell Coverage
Good cell service near cities and most highways. Spotty coverage around Whiskeytown, Burney Falls, and in the deeper Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Estimated Cost
Estimate $550-750 per person for 3 days, including mid-range motels/lodges, meals, fuel, and park fees. Pet-friendly stays are available but sometimes add a $25-50 fee per night.
Parking Information
Most natural attractions have free or low-cost parking. Burney Falls and other state/national parks may require a $10-20 day-use fee.
Accommodation
Mid-range motels, rustic lodges, and charming pet-friendly inns. Book ahead during summer weekends near Mount Shasta and in popular lake areas.
Road Conditions
Generally excellent in summer. Expect curvy roads through wooded regions—ride with extra care, especially near lakes and mountain passes.
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