THE BEST 5 FALL DRIVES WITHIN AN HOUR OF REDDING, CALIFORNIA
As autumn blankets Northern California in a stunning display of colors, Redding serves as a perfect base for Instagram-worthy scenic drives.
Whether you’re craving fall colors, breathtaking landscapes, or serene natural settings, these drives will ignite your sense of adventure. Check out the following locations recommended by Nolan of @backroadsculture – and don’t forget to tag him when you go!
Photo Credit: @backroadsculture
1. Shasta Lake and the Historic Shasta Dam
Location: Shasta Lake, CA
Estimated Time: 30 minutes, 21 miles
Kick off your fall exploration with a drive to the historic Shasta Dam. If you’re able, leave yourself enough time to take the free Shasta Dam tour.
From Redding, you’ll take 1-5 north to the Shasta Dam exit and drive three miles west. (Be sure to stop at Heritage Coffeehouse in Shasta Lake to fuel your adventure.)
Continue up the winding hills of Shasta Dam Blvd., where the hills come alive with autumn colors and stunning vistas that lead to Shasta Dam.
The combination of the Shasta Lake, Shasta Dam, and the surrounding trees in their fall colors creates an awe-inspiring scene. On a clear day, you can also see Mt. Shasta in the distance.
Enjoy a quick hike at the nearby trails or walk across the Dam for even more stunning views!
Photo Credit: Chase Smith
2. Whiskeytown Lake Loop
Location: Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Estimated Time: 1 hour, 34 miles
Start your fall journey with a drive around Whiskeytown Lake.
This scenic loop along South Shore Drive’s 5-mile dirt road connects the paved JFK Memorial Drive to Highway 299 near Carr Powerhouse.
It showcases stunning views of the lake surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. Pause at the various lookouts to soak in the beauty of the changing leaves and mountain views.
The area is perfect for short hikes, so consider a quick walk to Whiskeytown Falls, Crystal Creek Falls, or Brandy Creek Falls for a stunning waterfall experience amidst the fall colors.
RELATED: WHISKEYTOWN WATERFALLS: YOUR GUIDE TO EXPLORING 4 WATERFALLS NEAR REDDING, CA
3. Redding to Lewiston & Weaverville
Location: Redding to Weaverville
Estimated Time: 2-hour loop, 99 miles
Set out on a beautiful fall drive from Redding through Lewiston and on to Weaverville along Highway 299.
This route takes you through gorgeous forests and mountain passes, showcasing the breathtaking colors of autumn and the thick pine forests of Shasta and Trinity Counties.
From Highway 299, turn onto Poke Bar Road, where scenic views of the Trinity Mountain foothills unfold. Continue on Old Highway Road, which winds through serene landscapes and colorful trees.
Plan a stop for lunch at the historic Lewiston Hotel Bar & Grill. Afterward, cross the historic bridge and take a left onto Rush Creek Road, where you’ll be surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
Finally, turn onto Highway 3 to arrive in the charming town of Weaverville. Rich in history and character, it is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of exploration.
Photo Credit: @backroadsculture
4. Redding to Castle Crags State Park
Location: Redding to Castle Crags
Estimated Time: 2-hour loop, 105 miles
Take a picturesque drive from Redding to Castle Crags State Park, from Exit 724 to Castella.
Follow Riverside Road, where you’ll encounter a charming trail system and a suspension bridge over the Sacramento River.
As you wind through a beautiful forest decorated with bright yellow trees, you’ll eventually merge onto I-5. Head south to the Castle Crags State Park exit and continue past the park to Dog Trail.
You’ll be greeted here by stunning fall colors, a rustic barn, and breathtaking views of Castle Creek and Grey Rocks Mountain.
RELATED: REDDING’S FALL BUCKET LIST: 13 MUST-DO ACTIVITIES
Photo Credit: @backroadsculture
5. Redding to Big Bend and Hagen Flat Road
Location: Redding to Big Bend
Estimated Time: 3 hours, 80 miles
Embark on a scenic fall drive from Redding, heading east on Highway 299.
Enjoy the stunning views as you pass Montgomery Creek Falls, then transition onto Big Bend Road’s winding, picturesque stretch.
This beautiful route leads you onto Hagen Flat Road, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Pit River Valley, with vibrant autumn colors, dramatic canyons, and plenty of pull-outs to take in the scenery.
The drive culminates near McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, where you can admire the falls from the lookout above or the trail below. (Note that main trails are closed for reconstruction in 2024.)
After enjoying the stunning natural beauty, consider stopping in the nearby town of Burney for a meal.
Photo Credit: Ryan Thompson
The Road Ahead: Your Autumn Adventure is Calling
These scenic drives showcase the best of Northern California’s fall splendor, but they’re more than just routes on a map – they’re gateways to adventure.
Each bend in the road offers a new photo opportunity, a chance to explore hidden trails or a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature’s autumn canvas.
Remember to pack your camera, bring layers (our fall weather can be wonderfully unpredictable), and fuel up both your vehicle and yourself before heading out.
These routes are beautiful year-round, but autumn transforms them into something truly magical.
Whether you have 30 minutes or a full day to explore, Redding’s surrounding landscapes are waiting to show you why fall might just be Northern California’s best-kept secret.
Safe travels, and don’t forget to tag your photos with #VisitRedding to share your fall adventure with us!
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