REDDING RECREATION Category
Shasta Sunset Dinner Train Let Down
I heard for years from friends and family what a great time could be had boarding the Shasta Sunset Dinner Trainfor an evening excursion. Fine food and drink, dancing in a specially outfitted boxcar or taking in the scenery while standing on an uncovered flat car as the train made its way from McCloud to Mt. Shasta and back were all explained to me prior to our trip this past weekend. Unfortunately, the fact the dinner train is calling it quits after New Year’s Eve explained why many of these elements of trips past were not to be had this time around.
The record freezing temperatures in early December apparently took its tollon the soon-to-be-idled dinner train. The open flat car used as a viewing platform at the caboose end of the train was instead used to site a huge generator to run the train’s electrical equipment. It was placed in front of the engine and was inaccessible to passengers. The boxcar used as the dance venue was damaged by the freeze and was not part of the train assemblage. The freeze also damaged sections of the train tracks beyond the summit where the ski park road crosses the track. Therefore the train ride was a series of short forward and backward jaunts east and west of McCloud. In fact, the train never made it over the ridge west of McCloud.
We boarded the train Saturday December 19th at 6PM sharp along with many familiar Redding faces. The food
was excellent though the service was slow. My Beef Wellington was tender and moist and my wife’s salmon entree was fresh and perfectly cooked. However, some of the bathrooms were out of service causing some distress for those with small bladders. Two or three people were always waiting for their turn to use the facilities which, according to my wife, were not operating properly. Thankfully, I hold my water like a camel!
The impending closure of the business was obvious by the long faceson much of the wait staff. However, the conductor was in good spirits as he made his round to punch each passenger’s boarding pass. He was also busy switching the tracks as the train made numerous stops in its back and forth route around McCloud. Two passengers including a woman seated at the table behind us became ill from motion sickness and were disambarked at the ski park highway crossing.
I was looking forward to a little dancing after dinneror at least sitting outside in the brisk winter night to admire the starlit skies but that was not in the cards. I don’t blame the owners of the dinner train for not fixing these equipment problems considering the days are numbered before this business ceases operation. I feel for the employees and lodge owners in McCloud and Mt. Shasta that accommodate manyof the patrons of these excursions. I don’t mean to discourage those riding the dinner train in its final days but be forewarned the route and on-board amenities may not be what was offered in years past.
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR /BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS REAL LIVING
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Scary Real Estate
REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
Behind the crumbling brick buildings that line the main street in
Old Shasta, on a wooded hill overlooking town, lies
the Shasta Union Catholic Cemetery (now called Old Shasta Cemetery) with headstones, obelisks and iron fences surrounding family burial plots, dating back to the mid-eighteenth century. It was established in about 1849 and was one of the first in the north state. Upon looking at numerous headstones, it was obvious that life spans were shorter back then; anyone living 50-60 years was quite fortunate.
Paths meander up and over a hill dotted with oak trees. Brick walls topped with spiked iron fences protect many headstones from becoming easy targets of thoughtless vandals. Many broken headstones have been painstakingly pieced back together. The cemetery sees minimal maintenance. This is one of several cemeteries in the Old Shasta area.
Aside from the Native Americans who have populated this area for centuries, these graves are the burial spots for some of Shasta County’s first non-native settlers. Use your imagination to ponder what those days must have been like. Shasta was one of the last stops 
for supplies as prospectors headed west to the rugged wilderness that surrounds and includes the Trinity Alps. Life was difficult and many of these early arrivals never struck it rich and were lucky to return alive.
To reach this quiet spot, take Hwy 299 west from Redding and turn right in Old Shasta on Trinity Alley and look for the new fence on the left near the bottom of the hill. The gate is unlocked. Watch out for ghosts and goblins, as you take a stroll through time and pay your respects!
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Cool Trinity Alps Camping Spot
REDDING LIFESTYLES, REDDING RECREATION
Big Flat Camp Ground Trinity County
The ruggedly beautiful Trinity Alps are largely inaccessible except for those willing to strap on a pack and hike for miles and miles to reach the namesake granite peaks. One campground I frequent is situated adjacent to wilderness near the heart of the Alps. It serves as a starting point for hikers and horse packers heading to Caribou Lakes, Packers Peak, Tri-Forest Peak and Red Rock Mountain and points beyond.
Big Flat Campground is located at the terminus of Coffee Creek Road. Technically, the road continues a couple more miles to some private residences below Josephine Lake, but the campground is the last place the public can access. This campground has several unique features:
- At over 5000′ elevation, this spot offers a cool respite from summer heat common to lower elevation campgrounds
- A little known spring on a hillside below the campground offers plenty of fresh cool water for hikers and campers
- Trailheads heading north, east, west and south to wilderness areas in the Trinity and Salmon Mountains
- Cool clean swimming opportunities near the headwaters of the Salmon River just below the campground
- Best of all-camping is FREE
Horse packers help keep the campground clean and well stocked with firewood. Most campsites have a fire pit and firebox. Keep in mind campers must pack out there own garbage and pit toilets are the only facilities available.
To get there, follow Hwy 3 north from Weaverville to Coffee Creek Road, head west to the end of the road (about 15 miles). The first 5 miles or so of Coffee Creek Road is paved then the road turns to dirt and is very rough in places. 4WD is not required but a vehicle with high clearance is recommended.
This is one of the best spots I’ve found for camping in the Northern California area. Contact me for additional information if you’re planning a trip!
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Alpen Cellars Offers Fine Wines, Surroundings
I couldn’t help myself as we headed home from a Trinity Alps camping trip when the sign said winery-this way! Located in a remote valley at the east edge of Trinity County is this fabulous treasure of a spot to enjoy delicious wines while overlooking the lush green grounds from a picnic table. I’m familiar with their Chardonnay which is available at Costco, but had no idea they produced so many varietals.
You can reach the winery via French Gulch if you don’t mind miles of dirt road or you can take Hwy 3 north of Trinity Center to the paved road on the west side of Trinity Lake. I believe the winery is about 13 miles southeast of Hwy 3. Despite the remote location, the wines and scenery are well worth the drive. The winery is open 7 days week through Labor Day.
Cross the steel bridge over a branch of the Trinity River past the vineyards up a windy drive to a farm house surrounded by lush green pastures and several small warehouse buildings. Behind the home are large trees shading the picnic area where the wine tasting takes place. From this vantage point, you can see the valley, river and mountain ridges to the south. A small pond is crowned with a water wheel surrounded by pasture with several horses and a mule. Even as Redding sweltered under record heat, we sat comfortably in the shade enjoying a gentle breeze and one great wine after another. Our grand kids made their way to the swing set and entertained themselves while we tasted away.
Keith Groves hosted our tasting as well as injecting some history about the winery started by his father. Alpen Cellars produces about 5000 cases per year. They grow grapes on-site and on nearby property and buy grapes from other vineyards to make other varietals.
We started with a dry White Riesling that was not too sweet. This was followed with a crisp Gewurztraminer, lemony Pinot Gris and two different Chardonnays. Reds offered for tasting included two Merlots, a Pinot Noir (my favorite varietal) and Sangiovese. Unlike most wineries I vist, all of these wines were well made and very reasonably priced. We bought and stuffed a case in our station wagon overloaded with camping gear and headed over the mountain toward Redding via French Gulch glad to have made a jaunt to this hidden jewel!
This winery is a true asset to the north state. If you are looking for a great road trip, give this winery a try. I think you will be pleasantly surprised!
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
New BMX Bike Park Planned For Redding
A group of bicycling advocates have begun planning a new bike park for the area along the east shore of the river below the new Hwy 44 bridge expansion in Redding. A portion of the area is currently being used as a construction yard. The group has pitched the idea to the City of Redding Parks Department where the group was given the green light to continue with the planning process. Details are sketchy as to the cost of construction and where the funds will come from, but the planning will continue.
Fresno recently opened a BMX bike park that is comparable to the one envisioned by the local work group. To see what it looks like, click here:http://videos.fresnobee.com/vmix_hosted_apps/p/media?id=4901773&item_index=1&query=video&sort=NULL
The park envisioned for Redding will have less concrete and more dirt jumps. The group recently developed a website and here’s the link:
Construction and completion of the park is several years away assuming the project is supported by the community and funds are allocated by the city or donated from private sources. Local athlete and sports celebrity Bobby McMullen is part of the group planning the bike park.
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Date For Community Creek Clean-up Set
REDDING LIFESTYLES, REDDING RECREATION
Ken Murray sprouted the idea of having volunteers spend a few hours each fall clearing trash from local streams that empty into the Sacramento River. The first year focused on Churn Creek from Shasta Lake City to the confluence with the Sacramento River near Anderson. The second year targeted streams in West Redding including Jenny Creek from Mary Lake to the Sacramento River and Caboose Creek. Last year volunteers returned to Churn Creek and Clover Creek in the eastern portion of Redding.
This year, October 3rd from 8am-noon, has been designated the clean-up day and the Sacramento River Trail area will be the area receiving a thorough cleaning. Local service clubs and the Coastal Commission are getting involved to clear brush between the trail and river.
Volunteers gather early in the morning at designated staging areas where they are briefed on safety, provided gloves and bags then directed to a segment of the clean-up locale. Once the area has been scoured for trash, volunteers meet at a designated spot for a complimentary lunch and swim if weather permits. Last year, The McConnell Foundation donated most of the food and beverages to feed the volunteers.
Years past have seen as many as 700 volunteers though last year it was less than 400. Anyone interested in 
participating this year should visit the following website for sign-ups and liability waivers:
My wife and I have volunteered since the program’s inception and plan to be there again this year. Consider giving something back to our wonderful community by volunteering a few hours of your time. You will feel good about your efforts and our downstream neighbors will appreciate our help prior to the arrival of winter storms.
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Whiskeytown Lake Trashed By Thoughtless Boaters
REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
Sadly, some boaters at Whiskeytown think it’s OK to trash the beach after taking a break on shore from their favorite water activities. My wife and I have noticed more and more trash on beaches around Whiskeytown that can only be accessed by boat. The reasons people do this escape me, but I have a couple theories.
Years ago, before Whiskeytown charged visitors daily use fees, it 
was common to see trash cans placed at popular coves, islands and beach spots around the lake. Apparently, budget cuts have eliminated this service since I have not seen trash cans at these spots for several years. Perhaps park users see this as their opportunity to leave behind whatever trash would have been deposited in these missing receptacles.
Stricter laws regarding drinking and possession of alcohol may also be another factor. Underage drinkers can use the law as an excuse not to pack out their trash. Apparently, the penalties for getting caught with an open container outweigh the environmental impact of littering. However, it does not 
explain why drinkers of legal age leave their bottles and cans behind to greet the next visitor.
I would like to see some of the money collected for park usage applied to cleaning up the park and reinstating the placement of trash cans at popular beach spots. Not only does this trash spoil this pristine man-made lake, it sends a message to the next generation that trashing our planet is acceptable behavior. A sad commentary, in my opinion, on our stewardship of our small planet.
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER IN REDDING
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Mary Lake Beaver Mystery Continues
REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
I was surprised when journalist Ryan Sabalow of the Record Searchlight called to ask me if I heard the news regarding the suspicious deaths of 5 beavers in the past few months in Mary Lake. Apparently he found numerous posts I had on my blog regarding the life and times of Mary Lake’s beaver family. First, I didn’t know we had so many beavers living in Mary Lake. Second, I had no idea five of these playful critters had been killed or died and local Fish and Game wardens were investigating.
The mystery centers on the cause of death of these water rodents. Did they die of natural causes, from competing wildlife such as river otters, or as one neighbor believes, malicious actions of teenage boys? Hopefully, a necropsy soon to be performed by state officials will shed some light on the cause of death for one unlucky beaver.
After the Record Searchlight featured Ryan’s story on the plight of the beavers on the front page of Saturday’s paper, I was contacted by a neighbor who saw three teenage boys recently kill a mallard and hurl huge boulders at a beaver. My neighbor confronted the boys but did not stick around to see the outcome of their actions. The article spurred my neighbor to file a report with state wildlife officials including a description of the boys and the vehicle one was seen driving.
Thank you Record Searchlight for bringing attention to this tragedy. Time will tell if the cause will be determined and appropriate actions taken to protect the critters that call Mary Lake home.
Please contact me if you have any information on these events.
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
CORNER OF COURT AND PLACER
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Earth Day Arrives April 22nd
REDDING LIFESTYLES, REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
The first official Earth Day was celebrated on the March equinox by the United Nations in 1969. Another Earth Day was started the following year by US Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. April 22 is the date Earth Day is celebrated every year during spring in the northern hemisphere and autumn in the southern hemisphere. Senator Nelson used the day to have a “teach in” to focus on the impact of population growth. The grassroots effort coincided with a strong push towards “Zero Population Growth”.
UN Secretary-General U Thant supported this global initiative and on Feb. 26, 1971 signed a proclamation worth noting that said:
May there only be peaceful and cheerful Earth Days to come for our beautiful Spaceship Earth as it continues to spin and circle in frigid space with its warm and fragile cargo of animate life.
Today, Earth Day is a celebration of political support for an environmental agenda. Senator Nelson was inspired by a visit to Santa Barbara after the horrific oil spill in 1969. He went back to Washington and passed a bill designating April 22nd as a national day to celebrate the earth. Today, millions of people celebrate Earth Day or Earth Week worldwide.
Many colleges and government agencies have developed programs to engage citizens in environmental projects in their communities during Earth Day or Earth Week. The California State Parks Foundation has developed a Earth day Restoration and Cleanup Program.
Click here for more information: http://www.calparks.org/programs/earth-day
My wife and I have become involved with Redding’s Adopt-A-Park Program and help keep one park clean year round. The city has found many sponsors since starting the program 2 1/2 years ago but there are still parks and trails in need of adoption. 15 of the 33 parks in the program still need a sponsor. They include:
- Minder Park and Trail in the Edgewood neighborhood
- Alta Mesa/ Western Oaks Park in Enterprise
- Clover Creek Park/ Hawn Park near Starview Estates
- Creekside Park in South Redding
- Ridgeview Park in West Redding
- Vista Ridge Park in North Redding
Of the 12 trails up for adoption, only two remain available:
- Old 99 Trail
- Palatine Trail
A new trail will be available for adoption once the Sacramento River Trail is extended to the Hwy 44/Hilltop Drive area.
Visit the Redding Community Services department at the following link for details:
http://www.ci.redding.ca.us/CommunityServices/adopt.html
Make Earth Day Earth Year by adopting and caring for a small slice of this beautiful place we call home!
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
Turtle Bay Looking For Friends
REDDING LIFESTYLES, REDDING RECREATION, SHASTA COUNTY
Some locals bash Turtle Bay for being a financial burden to the city. Perhaps that is why a campaign has been launched for the silent majority to show their support for this local museum. It could also be a way for Turtle Bay to build a list of possible prospects for future membership. In any case, Turtle Bay would like advocates to sign up for free to “demonstrate that large numbers of people in this community care about the continued operation and public funding of Turtle Bay Exploration Park.”
They would like the public to voice their support and encourage their friends to do the same. They also are encouraging supporters to write letters to the editor, talk to local elected officials and spread the word about positive experiences they have had at Turtle Bay.
I have noticed several Redding.com commenters consistently bashing Turtle Bay, The Sundial Bridge, Big League Dreams and City Hall every opportunity they get. They claim these new additions to the city are unneeded and expensive amenities that drain the city’s budget. The city has maintained these venues bring additional revenues to local businesses which eventually trickle back into the city’s coffers from tax revenues. Locals and tourists end up indirectly funding these cultural additions built during the years Mike Warren was city manager.
Join the friends of Turtle Bay if you are so inclined. Here’s the link: http://www.turtlebay.org/
530-224-6767 or 530-941-7492
BRAD GARBUTT
REALTOR/BROKER ASSOCIATE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS GMAC
QUARTER CENTURY LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE
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