January 11, 2023

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT REDDING, CALIFORNIA?

Family kayaking on Whiskeytown Lake near Redding, CA

The time comes when you crave a sort of freedom that doesn’t rely on expensive far-away destinations, resort luxuries, or well-traveled routes. These times require radically disengaging from the usual day-to-day to get the most out of every precious moment.

And what better way to unplug than to visit Redding, California—the North State’s epicenter of outdoor sports and recreation. 

Whether you love fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, water sports, skiing, or snowboarding, it’s all there to enjoy in Redding’s four-season destination.

Recognized as America’s second sunniest city, there’s no excuse for staying indoors. 

Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks and blessed with a spectacularly diverse climate, weather for Redding, California fluctuates from average highs in the peak of summer exceeding 100°F, falling to about 56°F around Christmas.

Winter, spring, summer, or fall, all you have to do is call on Redding for your next adventure-packed vacation. Choosing the best time to visit Redding, CA is all about knowing what you love to do and what you want to do here, so let’s take a look at your options!

VISIT REDDING FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

Wondering what time of year is the ideal time to plan a visit? Take your pick!

Photo Credit Sadie Simonis

DISCOVER YOUR WINTER BASE CAMP

The cold months transform Redding and its surroundings into a veritable winter wonderland. It’s all at your disposal, within an hour’s drive of the city.

For an authentic skiing and snowboarding experience, you simply must visit Mt. Shasta Ski Park, with more than 31 trails for snow-seekers of all abilities.

But if you’re searching for something a little different, there are plenty of other options nearby:

RELATED: TOP 8 FUN WINTER ACTIVITIES NEAR REDDING, CA

Photo Credit: Ryan Thompson

SPRING INTO ADVENTURE  

As the weather starts to warm up in Redding, nature demands you pay attention.

Forget TLC’s advice and start chasing waterfalls—the region is littered with spectacular cascades, which you can enjoy all within an hour’s drive.

You won’t want to miss Burney Falls, once dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world” by President Theodore Roosevelt, but there are many others you should consider if you love the beauty and grace of waterfalls:

RELATED: 10 MUST-SEE WATERFALLS NEAR REDDING, CALIFORNIA

If you prefer to be in the water rather than watching it, get kayaking or maybe explore the region’s abundant fishing spots—Redding has some of the best in the world. In fact, Redding is currently in the running for Top Urban Kayaking Spot in USA TODAY’s 10Best competition. 

If you’d like to remain dry, consider taking in some of California’s most beautiful wildflower trails—the Sacramento River Trail and the Arboretum Loop Trail are just for starters!

You could travel back in time and soak up some of Redding’s fascinating history at Old Shasta town.

Photo Credit Brent Van Auken

And at the end of the day, wind down in one of the award-winning local breweries like Fall River Brewing, Cedar Crest Brewing, or Final Draft Brewing Company.

Photo Credit Brent Van Auken

DIVE INTO SUMMER  

Don’t let the temperature in Redding, CA get you down. Our motto is, don’t sweat the heat! When the Redding sun shines at its brightest, head to one of the many watering holes for a refreshing dip.

Many locals head to the vast expanses of Shasta Lake, where boating, wakeboarding, and fishing are all popular—grab a bite to go and spend the day relaxing near the water!

The pristine water of Whiskeytown Lake, with its 37 miles of shoreline that includes a glorious beach and four dreamy waterfalls, proves a big summer hit.

You can take a dip, raft the Sacramento River, or test your skills at stand-up paddle boarding.

There are swimming and picnic areas on the north shore of Summit Lake in the wondrous Lassen National Park, bursting with more than 200 lakes, ponds, and creeks.

Like in spring, waterfalls and their swimming holes are excellent summer hangouts.

Or, for a little more extreme water fun while cooling off in town, WaterWorks Park is a great option for big and little kids alike, while the Redding Aquatic Center has an Olympic-sized pool and a great water play area.

RELATED: REDDING, CALIFORNIA: YOUR ULTIMATE 5-NIGHT SUMMER VACATION

Photo Credit Brent Van Auken

FALL FOR REDDING

Fall is one of the truly magical times in Redding. It’s still warm enough to swim while the season’s vibrant colors show off Redding’s breathtaking landscapes in all their splendor.

This is the season when you get the absolute most out of walking and riding Redding’s 225 miles of trails. Fuelled by melting snow, the waterfalls possess a majesty in fall like no other season.

Lassen Volcanic National Park remains one of the state’s most underrated regions—take a spellbinding drive through the park on California Highway 89 to behold a treasure chest full of crimson and gold flashes.

Dudes Drive In

Photo Credit Brent Van Auken

If you’re looking for a burger and shake on the go—Dude’s Drive Inn or Bartels Giant Burger will satisfy you. Try Tea Bar & Fusion Cafe or Roots Juice Bar for lighter options.

Or if it’s something a little more substantial you’re after, try the historic Jack’s Bar & Grill, View 202, C.R. Gibbs, or Mosaic Restaurant at the Sheraton.

Photo Credit Brent Van Auken

FIND YOUR BASE: STAY IN REDDING

When you’ve had all the fun you can stand after an action-packed day, wind down at one of Redding’s quality lodging options.

Here are just a few of the best places to stay in Redding, CA:

Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge – Think class, comfort, and convenience alongside the Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Hilton Garden Inn Redding – Old-world elegance meets modern-day facilities with stunning views less than half a mile from the Sacramento River.

Best Western Plus Hilltop Inn – Modern, stylish, and the ideal choice for family vacations or even a business stopover.

Red Lion Hotel Redding – Conveniently located on Hilltop Drive with spectacular views of the Sundial Bridge.

Americana Modern Hotel – Enjoy modern conveniences in a nostalgic americana setting within walking distance of downtown Redding restaurants and events.

Photo Credit Courtesy of K2 Development – Harrison

REDDING AND RARING TO GO?

As you can see, Redding is the ideal California destination: a city with beautiful waterfalls, a fantastic selection of local events, a revitalized downtown, massive lakes, and seasonal treats from terrific eateries. 

Whether on foot, bike, or board, all four seasons of adventure await Redding visitors.

The best time of the year to visit Redding is as soon as you can!  

NEXT UP: 25 FUN THINGS TO DO IN REDDING WITH KIDS

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