WINTER WITHOUT LIMITS: YOUR REDDING-AREA ADVENTURE GUIDE

Think you need to choose between sunny days and winter adventures? Think again! Here in Redding, we’re serving up the best of both worlds.

As California’s sunniest city, we’re proud to offer you bright winter days and epic snow adventures just a quick drive away. No compromises needed – that’s just how we roll in Redding!

Winter Adventure Begins in Redding

Your adventure playground starts right in the heart of our city. While other destinations might hibernate for winter, Redding keeps the outdoor fun coming with activities for every pace and style.

Urban Trails, Epic Tales

Even in winter, our city trails are ready for action! The Sacramento River Trail system shows off its unique winter charm with misty morning views of the iconic Sundial Bridge.

Pro tip: Catch it at sunrise when the fog and sunbeams dance with the bridge’s stunning architecture – you can thank us later!

Want to explore like a local? Hop on a Bird scooter or grab an e-bike and cruise our 80+ miles of trails without breaking a sweat.

The paved Sacramento River Trail is perfect for a leisurely ride, offering stunning river views and plenty of spots to pause and take in the scenery.

Get Your Roll On

New to Redding: The Pump Track!

Since September 2024, riders of all kinds have been getting their flow on at Redding’s newest attraction – our state-of-the-art pump track!

This smooth circuit welcomes bikes, skateboards, and scooters as part of the Redding Bike Park.

Never tried a pump track? It’s like a rollercoaster you power yourself, using the rhythmic up-and-down motion of the track to keep your momentum going. No pedaling required!

Redding Skate Park

Looking for more fun on wheels? Our skate park offers the perfect playground for skateboarders to practice their moves, from beginners testing their first ollies to advanced riders working on their latest tricks.

The smooth concrete features keep you riding all winter.

RELATED: REDDING: YOUR CALIFORNIA BOARD SPORTS HUB

Ride All Winter: Redding’s Year-Round MTB Playground

Ready to level up? Redding’s legendary mountain bike trails are rideable year-round!

From beginner-friendly flow to hardcore downhill action, we’ve got your winter riding covered. Here’s your insider’s guide to some of our favorite winter-worthy trails:

Snail Trail: The Local Favorite

Don’t let the name fool you – there’s nothing slow about this trail! Arguably Redding’s most popular ride, Snail Trail serves up the perfect mix of speed and flow.

Picture this: sweeping berms, playful rollers, and jumps that’ll put a grin on your face (and maybe some dirt in your teeth).

While the trail’s blue rating makes it accessible to moderate riders, even advanced shredders come back for more. Those 180-degree turns? They’ll keep you on your toes!

Fun fact: This trail gets its name from a rare local snail species – but we promise you’ll be moving way faster than its namesake!

Canyon Holler Trail: Your Neighborhood Flow Zone

New to mountain biking or just want some pure flow? Canyon Holler is your happy place! This green-rated trail proves that “beginner-friendly” doesn’t mean boring.

Roll through perfectly carved berms and over gentle rollers – go as fast or as mellow as you like.

While it’s our first directional, bike-only trail in city limits, remember: your Strava KOM status isn’t as important as keeping everyone safe and spreading good trail vibes!

FB Trail: Views for Days

Sometimes you just want to cruise and take in the scenery. FB Trail delivers stunning views of Keswick Lake along a mellow, green-rated path.

Perfect for all bikes from cross-country to gravel grinders, this trail connects to plenty of others – making it easy to turn your quick spin into an all-day adventure.

Enticer: Send It Season

Ready to get airborne? This black diamond was named in honor of Larry “Just Gonna Send It” Enticer, and the trail channels the same energy as its legendary namesake.

A full mile of berms, jumps, and drops will have you feeling like you’re in a bike park movie. A full mile of berms, jumps, and drops will have you feeling like you’re in a bike park movie.

Thank the Redding Trail Alliance for this gem – they built it in 2017 for riders who love to send it. Pro tip: Take the mellow climb up Owen’s Run to save energy for multiple laps!

Ono Trail: For the Brave at Heart

Looking for the spiciest ride in town? Ono Trail’s double black rating isn’t just for show.

This hand-built downhill masterpiece on Mule Mountain’s southwest side throws everything at you: technical rock gardens, ambitious slabs, and a step-down near the bottom that’ll test your commitment.

While most of the trail rides at a solid black diamond level, a few features definitely earn that double-black status. One run, and you’ll see why this trail has become a badge of honor among local riders.

Remember, our trails tend to be at their grippiest a few hours after rain, making winter the perfect time to discover your new favorite ride.

Stop by any local bike shop for current conditions and maybe a few secret trail tips – our riding community loves sharing the stoke!

Snow Much Fun Just a Short Drive Away!

Whiskeytown Wonders

Just 15 minutes from downtown, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is like Redding’s own outdoor playground that never closes for the season!

While summer crowds know it for the beach and boating scene, we’ll let you in on a secret – winter’s still a fantastic time to explore this gem.

The waterfalls are pumping, the trails are prime, and you might just have that perfect vista all to yourself!

Chase Waterfalls Like it’s Your Job

Whiskeytown’s famous falls put on their best show after winter rains, and we’ve got the insider scoop on how to catch the action:

Whiskeytown Falls Trail: Ready to earn those waterfall views? This trail delivers a jaw-dropping payoff with its 220-foot cascade finale!

Sure, some parts of this 2.7-mile out-and-back journey might get your heart pumping, and those steps near the falls can be slick in winter (wear those grippy hiking shoes!), but trust us – when you’re standing at the base of that incredible waterfall, you won’t be thinking about the climb.

Crystal Creek Falls: Want all the waterfall vibes without the workout? This paved trail is your ticket to pure natural beauty!

At just 0.7 miles round trip, it’s our most accessible waterfall adventure. Bring Grandma, bring the stroller, bring your friend in a wheelchair – this waterfall is for everyone!

RELATED: WHISKEYTOWN WATERFALLS: YOUR GUIDE TO EXPLORING 4 WATERFALLS NEAR REDDING, CA

Trail Running Paradise

Whiskeytown’s trails are always ready for your running fix. The Davis Gulch Trail is our go-to for winter trail runs – starting from Brandy Creek Beach’s second parking lot, this lakeside beauty gives you endless water views without the summer crowds.

Run the full 6.4-mile out and back for a solid workout, set up a shuttle with your running buddy at the other end of the trail, or just turn around whenever you’re feeling it.

And yes, your four-legged running partner is welcome – just keep them leashed!

Year-Round Paddle Scene

Think paddling is just for summer? Not at Whiskeytown! Winter brings glassy waters and peaceful vibes, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

On those sunny winter days (and we get a lot of them!), you’ll find locals getting their paddle fix without fighting for parking spots.

The lake’s countless coves and inlets become your personal playground – perfect for a peaceful winter escape or a unique wildlife-watching opportunity.

Pro tip: Remember to pack those booties with your SUP – winter waters can be brisk!

Mt. Shasta: Where Winter Dreams Come True

An hour’s drive north, and boom – you’re in winter sports heaven! Mt. Shasta Ski Park isn’t just another ski resort; it’s your ticket to 425 acres of pure winter joy.

The best part? You’ll find all the thrills of a big resort without the big crowds or prices. Take the whole family for a day on the mountain without breaking the bank.

Bunny Flat: Where Snow Angels Come to Play

Got kiddos in tow? Bunny Flat is your kid-friendly winter playground! Perfect sledding hills mean hours of downhill giggles.

Bunny Flat is also a prime location for snowshoeing, with trails that wind through snow-covered forests and offer stunning views of Mt. Shasta. Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned snowshoer, these trails let you explore the winter beauty at your own pace.

No fancy equipment needed – just bring your sense of adventure and maybe some hot cocoa for warming up between sledding runs.

Ice, Ice Baby

Ready to channel your inner Olympic figure skater? Siskiyou Ice Rink is your spot!

Whether you’re a wobbly beginner or a hockey pro in the making, Mt. Shasta’s ice rink welcomes everyone.

After showing off your spins (or spectacular falls – we don’t judge!), warm up back in Redding at one of our cozy breweries.

Lassen: Where Winter Gets Wild

Ever seen steam vents piercing through snow? This is winter with a twist – where else can you snowshoe past bubbling mud pots? At Lassen Volcanic National Park, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

An hour east of Redding, Lassen transforms into a winter wonderland that’ll make you forget you’re in sunny California.

Two Winter Wonderlands, One Amazing Park

Lassen serves up two distinct winter playgrounds, each with its own personality:

Southwest Area: The Dramatic Side

Behind the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, steep slopes and sweeping vistas create an amphitheater of winter fun. This is your go-to spot for:

• Epic sledding on perfect powder slopes
• Snowshoeing to the steaming Sulphur Works – a 2-mile round trip where you can watch geologic history in action
• Backcountry skiing for adventure seekers
• Warming up with hot cocoa in the visitor center

Manzanita Lake Area: Winter’s Gentle Side

Looking for a more mellow winter experience? The Manzanita Lake area offers winter magic that’s perfect for families and first-timers:

• Gentle slopes perfect for learning snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
• Picture-perfect snow play areas where kids can build their dream snowman
• Scenic lake loops that look like they jumped straight out of a winter postcard
• Beginner-friendly terrain that still delivers those jaw-dropping views

Winter Adventures Your Way

Whatever your winter style, Lassen’s got you covered:

Snowshoe Adventures

Strap on some snowshoes and explore trails that range from easy lake loops to challenging peak ascents. Join a ranger-led snowshoe walk to learn about the park’s unique winter ecology.

Cross-Country Paradise

When the park highway closes to vehicles, it transforms into a cross-country skier’s dream. Glide past snow-covered volcanic peaks and through pristine forests.

The Manzanita Lake area offers perfect terrain for beginners, while more experienced skiers can tackle the challenging routes in the Southwest Area.

Snow Play for Days

Whether you’re building snow forts, having snowball fights (keep it friendly!), or racing down sledding hills, Lassen’s deep snowpack provides the perfect playground.

The southwest area’s steep slopes deliver thrills, while the Manzanita Lake area offers gentler terrain perfect for the little ones.

Beyond the Park: Snowmobile Country

Want to explore more of Lassen’s snowy backcountry? You’re in luck – Lassen National Forest boasts the most extensive network of groomed snowmobile trails in all of California, with an impressive 459 miles of designated routes!

The crown jewel is Swain Mountain Snowmobile Park, just 9 miles north of Westwood. This local favorite is usually the first to open and last to close each season, making it the most reliable spot for your winter adventure. With 60 miles of groomed trails featuring three easy loops, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.

Swain Mountain is just the beginning. It connects directly to the Bogard and Fredonyer trail systems, opening up 200 miles of marked trails for your exploring pleasure. (Just remember to steer clear of the restricted areas near Caribou Wilderness and Lassen Volcanic National Park!)

Catch Some Air at Eskimo Hill

Before you reach Lassen’s entrance, make a pit stop at Eskimo Hill – the locals’ favorite sledding spot!

This wide-open hill in Lassen National Forest has everything you need for the perfect sledding day: gentle slopes for the little ones, steeper runs for thrill-seekers, and fire pits for warming up between runs.

Want all the details for planning your perfect sledding adventure? Check out Redding to Eskimo Hill: 7 Reasons to Take a Winter Day Trip

Make It Happen: Your NorCal Winter Game Plan

Quick Tips for a Safe Trip

• Layer up! Redding’s sunny days and snowy adventures mean you’ll want options
• Throw those chains in the trunk when heading to the mountains — better to be safe than sorry
• Don’t forget the sunscreen and shades – our sunny reputation holds true even in winter!
• Your phone battery dies faster in the cold, so pack a portable charger to capture those photo-worthy moments

Local Intel

Want the real scoop on conditions? Our local bike shops are like winter weather guides – they’ll point you to the best trails faster than you can say, “Send it!”

Another great place to go for local info is Sports Ltd. in Redding. Consider them your winter adventure concierge, armed with all the intel you need for an unforgettable day out.

From sun-soaked trails to powder-filled peaks, Redding is your ticket to the ultimate winter playground.

Where else can you mountain bike in the morning and hit the slopes in the afternoon?

Ready to Plan Your Winter Activities?

Reach out to Visit Redding, where our friendly team can’t wait to help you craft your perfect winter adventure.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or peaceful winter trails, we’ve got the inside scoop on making your Redding winter unforgettable.

Come see why we’re Northern California’s favorite winter playground!

Book your stay today