Redding - Lake Shasta & Whiskytown

We stay in Redding and decide to have a look around after breaky.  We have heard of the Sundial Bridge and go to check this out first.

This has a glass surface with a tall sundial on one end - good nesting place for the swallows.










Next we decided to cruise up around Lake Shasta area as we have heard so much about this area and had only a quick stop in 2009.

House boats for hire

The water levels have dropped even more since then, which takes away some of the beauty that would have been there
when the water was up to the top.  You can clearly see the water line in the photos.

Bridge Bay Marina

Next stop was the Shasta caverns but we decided not to take the tour and moved on heading back to Redding where we call in to Bridge Bay and then out to Whiskeytown National Recreational Area.  And you thought it was another whiskey bar!

 Here we pick up another National parks pass for the year as we will be visiting some in Alaska & on the way up, so much more economical to buy the annual pass.

It's 3.30 pm and we have limited time but get directions to a few points in the park.

First we head over the dam opened by JFK and visit Cherry Beach (which of course is a lake).  Nice area with lifeguard on duty, hire kayaks, paddle boards etc.

Cherry Beach

 

Next we head out around the 299 and to Crystal Creek waterfall which was one of the smaller ones but we are running out of time.  Very clear cool water and a tranquil spot - there was no one else there at all. 

We both have a paddle before heading back to camp to sort out dinner and our next stop - Grant's Pass.

On the way, we pick up some swordfish for tea - something new for us but made very nice for steaks on the BBQ.