8 Ideal Northern California Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024
California, a state on the US West Coast, is known mainly for its entertainment and technology industries, as well as world-class wines, surfing, and natural beauty. With a good portion of it running along the Pacific Ocean, there is no shortage of water-based activities, and the Sierra Nevada is great for hiking and land exploration. Up in Northern California, you can find redwoods, massive trees sure to blow your mind, as well as fantastic vineyards, gorgeous national forests, fresh mountain air, and a sense of tranquility. And with its border being connected to Oregon, you have an endless array of opportunities to make your vacation one to remember.
Alturas
Get out in nature by visiting the small town of Alturas. Situated right near Modoc National Forest, there are endless ways for you to explore. See what animals and plants are native to Alturas at the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, or by walking the impressive trail systems at the national forest. The Warner Mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. There are also places to fish, such as nearby Upper Alkali Lake, Goose Lake, and Big Sage Reservoir.
Other attractions include the California Pines, a great place for some family pictures. You can also check out the Hadwick Pumpkin Patch in the fall. Picnics are easy with Alturas Park, and after, embrace history with a tour of the Modoc County Historical Museum. Grab some dinner at delicious restaurants like Antonio's Cucina Italiana, or Rubio's Taqueria, which are both close to the historic Hotel Niles. In the morning, grab a coffee from Espresso Yourself, or a sweet treat from The Sassy Baker.
Yreka
The town of Yreka is right near the California/Oregon border, which provides a great way to explore both states all within a weekend. Hike and bike at the Klamath National Forest, and the Butte Valley National Grassland. There is also the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument just across the border in Oregon or nearby Pluto's Cave. All of these nature areas have amazing views of the surrounding Siskiyou County, including chances to spot Mt. Shasta.
In town, you can still get out and about at Greenhorn Park. If you're tuckered out from exploring, check out some hot spots on the streets of Yreka. Catch a show at the Siskiyou Performing Arts Center, or try to spot all the murals and sculptures throughout the historic downtown core. Stop in and support locals at a down-to-earth restaurant like Black Bear Diner, or Jefferson's Roadhouse. When all is said and done and you're looking to crash for the night, you have a variety of adorable inns and rentals to choose from, or you can opt for the wilderness route and pitch a tent in a campground.
Dunsmuir
The town of Dunsmuir is truly a sight to behold and is the perfect destination for mountain explorers, ski fanatics, and those wanting to breathe in some fresh mountain air while taking in the incredible scenery.
Castle Crags State Park is full of magnificent mountain peaks and trail systems, such as Castle Crag Dome, and the Castle Lake Trail. Nearby is Sweetbriar Springs, as well as Girard Ridge and the Girard Ridge Lookout. If waterfalls are what you're looking for, make sure to stop in at Faery Falls, as well as Hedge Creek Falls and McCloud Falls.
Only a few miles north is Mount Shasta, where you can find adorable resorts, as well as the Mount Shasta Ski Resort. Hike the Bunny Flat Trailhead, or the trails surrounding Red Butte. You can also explore the trails by horseback, with horse camps being set up for your convenience. And if you're hoping to fish or dip your toes in a mountain lake, check out Lake Siskiyou Beach, and Cable Beach.
Back in town, check out the beautiful displays at the Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens, and afterward, grab dinner at YAKS on the 5, a popular burger joint. There is also the Railroad Park Resort, which features a dining car that has been converted into a full-time restaurant.
Shasta Lake
This town is the final stop before reaching actual Shasta Lake, a massive and complex lake known for its houseboat rentals and water activities. Explore the many inlets and river arms, either by watercraft or by foot, and bike along the shorelines.
If you're hoping to experience the thrill of vacationing on a houseboat, check out one of the many rental centers, and pick the boat that's perfect for you, whether you're hoping to use it for a bachelor/bachelorette party, family trip, or romantic getaway.
If house boating isn't your thing, no worries, as there are still plenty of fun things to do on land. Stop in at the Oasis Fun Center for some mini golf, or take a tour of the Shasta Dam at the Shasta Visitor Center. The Lake Shasta Caverns are a fun exploration, or you can hike the trailheads. There are also plenty of lakeside campgrounds to choose from, or you can opt for some cozy indoor suites at hotels like the Inn at Shasta Lake.
If you're hoping to get out on the water without a houseboat, check out the 10 different marinas, which all have different features like restaurants, boat rentals, water activity rentals, and dinner cruises.
Susanville
Susanville is the place to be if you love fishing. With lots of spaces for you to cast a line, it doesn't matter if you're an expert, or trying it out for the first time. Choose from places like Leavitt Lake, Honey Lake, or Lake Almanor, or more low-key spots like Willow Creek and Round Valley Reservoir. You can also find a spot along the Susan River, or spend the afternoon at Eagle Lake, which is known for its unique species of rainbow trout.
Surrounded by California's Sierra Nevada, Susanville offers more than just fishing. The Rice Canyon offroading area is perfect for some ATV action, or you can explore Susanville Ranch Park. This massive space is occupied by foothills and features dozens of mountain bike trails. The Susan River Canyon is another great spot, with the Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail running right by. You can also find plenty of places to camp, or marinas and boat ramps for some fun water activities. Other fun things to do include a round of golf at Diamond Mountain Golf Course, or some delicious meals at restaurants like Frost Mill and Lumberjacks.
Weaverville
Weaverville is an old mining town and was famously one of the top three gold rush areas in Northern California. Settled in 1850, it is still full of reminders of the past, including old buildings not destroyed by the town's disastrous fire.
Explore the historic La Grange Mine, or hike to Monument Peak to get a great view of what used to be a bustling mining area. You can also walk or bike the Weaverville Basin Trail System.
In and around town, check out some blasts to the past. Weaverville Joss House is a Taoist Temple and is the oldest still operating Chinese temple in California, originally established by Chinese miners. Jake Jackson Museum is full of old tools and pictures from the gold rush days, and Scott Museum takes a look back at the area's Native American history. Make sure to check out even more antique buildings throughout the historic district.
Events to look forward to include the Ruth Lake Rodeo and the Trinity County Fair. Make sure to stop in at some popular places like The Nugget restaurant, and Trinity County Brewing Company. With lots of accommodation options, including RV parks, rental cabins, and the Weaverville Whitmore Inn, it'll be easy to find a place to call home for the weekend as well.
Oroville
Close to the major city of Sacramento, Oroville is a great weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of daily living. It is also home to tons of festivals, taking place all throughout the year.
Some of these festivals and events include the Oroville Hospital Farmers Market and the Saturday Farmers Market. The Olive Festival is a Butte County staple and takes place in June. The Salmon Festival takes place in September. Christmas and winter events include the Parade of Lights and the Snow Goose Festival. In March, look forward to the Arbor Day Festival. April is the Wildflower and Nature Festival, and May is Feather Fiesta Days.
If your visit doesn't happen to fall on an event weekend, you can instead look forward to trying out the 5 different wineries and vineyards, perfect for a honeymoon, bachelorette party, girls trip, or anniversary. Purple Line Urban Winery is the only urban winery in town, and Live Wine is a micro-winery. Grey Fox Vineyards has a neat underground portion, and Quilici Winery has boutique charm. Long Creek Winery and Ranch is more of an experience, with acres of activities, including their mandarin groves.
Crescent City
Crescent City is absolutely beautiful and is located on California's coastline. It is also known as the gateway to the redwoods, which takes you on beautiful drives and hikes surrounded by these massive trees.
Check out the lighthouses, like Battery Point Lighthouse, and St. George Reef Lighthouse. Popular beaches include South Beach, Crescent Beach, and Pebble Beach. There is also Endert Beach, which has a more secluded vibe. Take part in some beachcombing, tide pool spotting, surfing, whale watching, and fishing off the B Street Pier. Explore nearby natural attractions like the Tolowa Dunes State Park, or the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. There is also Lake Earl and Point St. George. For those who love to kayak, join a tour that heads over to Castle Rock National Wildlife Refuge.
Back in town, check out the Ocean World Aquarium, where you can hang out with sharks and sea lions. Dine at top restaurants like Schmidts House of Jambalaya, or Chartroom, a seafood restaurant right next to the sea lion resting area. For some craft beers, try out Seaquake Brewing, or Port O'Pint's Brewing Company.
So whether you're looking to ski, surf, fish, or kick back and relax, Northern California is full of picturesque small towns all within a quick drive to some amazing natural beauties, and home to five-star restaurants, shops, and resorts. And when you're next three-day weekend pops up, you'll have a good idea of where to take your family, loved ones, or just yourself for an amazing retreat.
