Northern Interior California Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Weaverville
Northern Interior California
Northern Interior California
Northern Interior California
Mill Creek

Away from the busy towns along the California coastline, discover a slower and more peaceful way of life amid rolling forests and craggy mountains. 

Discover the mystery of Northern Interior California. Isolated from the coast by the Shasta Cascade, the region is known more for its natural beauty than its bustling towns. Relax as you explore its forests, lakes and mountains.

ReddingOpens in a new window is the region’s commercial and cultural hub. See a performance at the Art Deco Cascade Theatre or walk through the Sculpture Park at City Hall. Cross the Sacramento River via the magnificent Sundial Bridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge that also serves as a massive timepiece. See the impressive Shasta Dam outside the city.

Admire the snow-capped peaks of Mount Shasta scraping the sky. Soaring over 14,100 feet (4,300 meters) high, this live volcano is a revered symbol of the region. Hike through wildflower fields and past waterfalls along the mountain’s south side or ski its western slope in winter.

Go hiking, biking, mountain climbing, fishing and skiing in the surrounding Shasta–Trinity National Forest. Visit gold rush-era towns along the way, such as Helena, Weaverville, and Junction City.

Stroll through Chico, a college town with a big personality. Check out the World War II-era aircraft displayed at the Chico Air Museum. Explore the opulent manor and surrounding wilderness of Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park.

Be sure to visit Lassen Volcanic National ParkOpens in a new window, which has often been compared to Yosemite because of its lush mountain scenery. Its geothermal features include hot springs and steam vents. To the south, immerse yourself in the coniferous wilderness of Plumas National Forest, located in the Sierra Nevada. Get back to civilization in charming towns on the forest border, such as Portola and Oregon House.

Regardless of when you visit, Northern Interior California offers delights and surprises around every corner. As you explore active volcanoes, historic towns, thick pine forests and crystal clear lakes, you will understand what makes this remote region of the state so special.

Where to stay in Northern Interior California

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Lake Almanor Country Club

Lake Almanor Country Club might not have many top sights, but Lake Almanor and Westwood Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Lake Almanor Country Club
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Lake Almanor West

If you're spending some time in Lake Almanor West, Lake Almanor is a top sight worth visiting.

Lake Almanor West
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Downtown Redding

3/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Downtown Redding, Sacramento River and Cascade Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Redding
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Cascade

If you're spending some time in Cascade, Win-River Casino and Sacramento River are top sights worth seeing.

Cascade
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Hilltop

Hilltop might not have many top sights, but Riverfront Playhouse and Turtle Bay Exploration Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Hilltop
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Lakehead-Lakeshore

If you're spending some time in Lakehead-Lakeshore, Whiskeytown Shasta Trinity National Recreation Area and Shasta Lake are top sights worth seeing.

Lakehead-Lakeshore
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Redding

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Redding

3 out of 5
2180 Hilltop Dr, Redding, CA
The price is AU$160 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
AU$160
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Redding. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
6.8/10 (2,539 reviews)
"Great comfort and huge breakfast with many items to choose from. Staff friendly and helpful"

Reviewed on 31 Jul. 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Redding
Oxford Suites Redding

Oxford Suites Redding

3 out of 5
1967 Hilltop Drive, Redding, CA
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Redding. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,922 reviews)
"Like the suite"

Reviewed on 2 Aug. 2025

Oxford Suites Redding
Americana Modern Hotel

Americana Modern Hotel

3 out of 5
1241 Market St, Redding, CA
The price is AU$222 per night from 10 Aug to 11 Aug
AU$222
10 Aug - 11 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Redding. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,700 reviews)
"Cute little hotel at a great price!"

Reviewed on 2 Aug. 2025

Americana Modern Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Clear Lake Cottages & Marina

Clear Lake Cottages & Marina

2.5 out of 5
13885 Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Clearlake. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Austin Park and Redbud Park are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (292 reviews)
Beautiful View! Great Stay
"Beautiful property and location however everyone who lives locally is on substances and it was really uncomfortable. The property is right off the lake and you get a beautiful view. None of the locals bother you or come near the property so that was good. We were in town visiting my grandparents ..."

Reviewed on 18 Jul. 2025

Clear Lake Cottages & Marina
Lake Shastina Golf Resort

Lake Shastina Golf Resort

3.5 out of 5
5925 Country Club Dr, Weed, CA
Stay at this 3.5-star golf condo in Weed. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a golf course. Popular attractions Lake Shastina Golf and Lincoln Park are located ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (91 reviews)
"An amazing view of Mount Shasta from the balcony. The condos are situated about 15 degrees off from the mountain otherwise you would have a view from the sofa (the architect should have considered that a bit better). The golf course restaurant has decent food options and we are there for both dinner ..."

Reviewed on 28 Jul. 2025

Lake Shastina Golf Resort
Peaceful Cottage Retreat - 1 mile from Lake Shasta

Peaceful Cottage Retreat - 1 mile from Lake Shasta

Shasta Lake
Stay at this cottage in Redding. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a garden. Popular attractions Sacramento Rail Trail and Shasta Dam are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (60 reviews)
"The Peaceful Cottage was very comfortable, extremely clean, and well appointed. After driving on the I-5 all day, it was a cool respite in the heat on my journey. I really liked the little yard for my dog. I only stayed one night but it is close to Redding and Shasta lake dam which was pretty to ..."

Reviewed on 24 Jul. 2025

Peaceful Cottage Retreat - 1 mile from Lake Shasta
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Northern Interior California