SHASTA CAVERNS A COOL RESPITE TO SUMMER HEAT
REDDING LIFESTYLES, REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
August 24th, 2008
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the north state, consider a visit to one of our local wonders-Shasta Caverns! The cave’s temperature hovers in the high 50’s so bring a sweater even if it’s a 110 degrees outside! This geologic marvel was created over millions of years by percolating water eroding the limestone mountain the cave system lies within.
Just getting to the caverns is an adventure all its own. Exit I-5 at O’Brien Road and head east on the windy road high above Lake Shasta. Pull into the large parking area and head to the visitor center/gift shop to buy your tickets. Next, when instructed, walk the path down to the dock and board a patio barge for a trip across the McCloud Arm of Lake Shasta. Disembark on the other side of the lake and board the bus for a hair raising ride to the cave entrance while the jocular driver talks about how the bus is way overdue for a brake job giving you something to fret about while you tour the caverns.
While waiting for a guide to lead your group into the cavern, inspect the rock outcroppings that surround the door to the cave for fossils embedded in the rocks. Eons ago this area was covered by ocean. When it’s your turn to enter, slip on that sweater I advised you to bring and be ready to be awestruck by the stalactites and stalagmites that protrude from the floors and ceilings of the various chambers. Rock staircases lead visitors from one cavernous room after another as you zig zag through the mountain. Please don’t touch any of the rock formations since the oils on your skin can damage the natural processes that form these spires.
Emerge 45 minutes later just uphill from the entrance and march back to the bus stop for the return trip to the dock (make the driver prove the brakes work before boarding). Reflect on the amazing creations you’ve witnessed as your boat plies the deep waters of Lake Shasta back to the Shasta Caverns visitor center. Peruse the gift shop and pick up some souvenirs to remind you of your visit to this natural wonder, one of many here in far northern California. Allocate several hours to complete this fun and educational diversion.
This is one of many attractions within a short drive from Redding. Nearby resorts on Shasta Lake offer ski boat and houseboat rentals. If you need help planning a visit to our lovely corner of the world, or need help buying or selling real estate, my contact information follows:
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
