REDDING’S FALL BUCKET LIST: 13 MUST-DO AUTUMN ACTIVITIES

Forget everything you thought you knew about fall–we’re not just talking pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters (though we’ve got those too).

In Redding, autumn is when the great outdoors turns up the volume, the festivals kick into high gear, and the adventures? They’re just getting started.

From adrenaline-pumping hikes with splashes of fall colors to spooky haunted tours, we’ve got a bucket list that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy (or should we say orange?).

1. Chase Waterfalls (and Fall Colors)

Who says chasing waterfalls is just a summer thing?

Lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. With four stunning Whiskeytown waterfalls to discover, you’ll get your fix of rushing water and fiery fall foliage.

Pro tip: Whiskeytown Falls is a 220-foot stunner that’ll make your Instagram followers drool, while Crystal Creek Falls offers an easy paved path and accessibility to everyone.

2. Paddle into Autumn

Whiskeytown Lake isn’t ready to say goodbye to summer just yet. The water’s still warm, and the air’s just right for a paddleboarding adventure.

Rent a board, pack a picnic, and spend a day gliding across shimmering waters surrounded by gold and crimson hills. Just remember–balance is key, or you might take an unexpected dip!

3. Get Spooked on a Haunted History Tour

Ready for some hair-raising fun? Join the Shasta Historical Society for a Haunted History Tour of downtown Redding.

You’ll learn about local legends, ghostly encounters, and maybe even spot a specter or two. It’s history with a side of goosebumps!

4. Bike the River Trail – Electric Style

Fall is the perfect time to cruise the Sacramento River Trail without breaking a sweat (unless you want to).

Rent an e-bike and zip along 17.4 miles of scenic river views. With the crisp air in your face and golden leaves along the way, you’ll wonder why you don’t do this every day.

5. Conquer New Heights

Looking for a challenge with a view? Hike Chamise Peak Trail for a panoramic feast of fall colors.

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Shasta Lake, Shasta Dam, Mt. Shasta, and the Trinity Alps. It’s the perfect spot for a victory selfie or a moment of autumn zen.

6. Dive Deep into Shasta’s Underground World

Take a break from the fall foliage and dive into the depths of Lake Shasta Caverns.

This underground wonderland offers a unique perspective on Shasta County’s natural beauty.

Plus, the caverns stay a cool 58 degrees year-round–perfect for when the sunniest city in California is still bringing the heat.

Fly Fishing in a canoe at Lassen

7. Cast a Line, Catch a Memory

Fall is prime time for fly fishing in Redding. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a complete newbie, the Sacramento River is calling your name.

Hire a local fishing guide, learn the art of the perfect cast, and who knows? You might just land the big one.

8. Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice

Is it even fall without a little PSL action? But forget the chains–Redding’s local coffee shops are where it’s at.

Hit up Evergreen, Theory, Heritage, or From the Hearth for your pumpkin spice fix. While you’re at it, try their fall-inspired pastries. You can thank us later.

Take a tour of Redding’s best PSLs with us!

9. Get Your Gourd On

No fall is complete without the perfect pumpkin.

Head to Nash Ranch or Hawes Farms for pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and enough family photo opportunities to last you till next autumn.

Bring the whole crew and make a day of it!

10. Dance the Night Away, Country Style

Kick up your heels and try something new with a country line dancing lesson at Fall River Brewing Company.

With a craft beer in hand and the crisp night air around you, you’ll be boot-scootin’ like a pro in no time.

11. Picnic in the Park

Grab a blanket, pack some local treats, and head to Caldwell Park for a fall picnic by the Sacramento River.

The sound of rushing water, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the golden afternoon light through the trees–it’s pure Redding magic.

Don’t forget to grab a charcuterie board to go from Cask & Cleaver!

12. Sunset Selfies at Palisades

Cap off your Redding fall adventure with a sunset to remember. Head to Palisades Park with your favorite person and watch as the sky puts on a show.

With views of fall colors surrounding the Sacramento River and the Cascade Mountains in the background, it’s the perfect backdrop for that epic autumn photo.

13. Brave the Redding Haunted Houses

Ready to test your courage? Redding’s got a lineup of haunted houses guaranteed to make you jump. It’s time to face your fears and dive into the dark side of fall fun. Pick your poison… if you dare!

• Redding Haunted House at the Monolith: Step into a realm of terror at this long-standing spook central. Located next to the Sheraton, this pro-level haunted house serves up spine-chilling scenes, heart-stopping special effects, and live actors ready to make you jump out of your skin. It’s a Redding Halloween tradition that keeps getting better (and scarier) every year!
• Dreams of Darkness at Nash Ranch: Under new management and promising fresh frights, Dreams of Darkness is ready to fuel your nightmares. Will you brave the twisting corridors and face what lurks in the shadows? This haunt takes “sweet dreams” off the menu and serves up a buffet of terror instead.
• Hawes Haunts at Hawes Farms: Think farms are all hay rides and pumpkin patches? Think again! Hawes Haunts offers four unique and terrifying attractions that’ll have you second-guessing that peaceful countryside vibe. Brave the underground catacombs, face twisted toys, battle zombies, and venture into a haunted cornfield – if you’ve got the guts!

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