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

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.

VISIT REDDING FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

Wondering what time of year is the best time to visit? Take your pick!

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:

• Snowshoe some great trails at Lassen Volcanic National Park.
• Ice skate day or night at the full-size NHL rink at Siskiyou Ice Rink in Mt. Shasta.
• For a free outing, try sledding at Eskimo Hill; it’s hours of fun for the whole family.
• You can also hit up Snowman’s Hill to sled or toboggan a 300-foot run.
• What about fishing at a frozen lake in winter? Try ice fishing at Castle Lake.
• Looking to challenge the senses? Give scuba diving at scenic Whiskeytown Lake a go.

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:

• Kings Creek Falls
• Potem Falls
• Hedge Creek Falls
• McCloud Falls
• Burstarse Falls
• Faery Falls
• Whiskeytown Falls
• Crystal Creek Falls

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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! To find out more, check out visitredding.com.