Sisson Meadows Trail - Hiking

Review

Intro

Featuring 360-degree views that include Mt. Shasta, Black Butte, and Mt. Eddy, Sisson Meadows Trail offers exceptional scenery. Located in Mt. Shasta’s downtown area, this 7.5 acre wetland was preserved and restored to create a little piece of paradise within the city. With Mt. Shasta serving as an impressive backdrop, visitors can stroll along the boardwalk as it meanders through flowering meadows. Epic views of Black Butte, Mt. Eddy as well as the peaks of Castle Crag’s Wilderness are visible from this easy trail. After completing this short day hike, visitors can check out the little shops and restaurants available in downtown Mt. Shasta. 

What Makes It Great

The Sisson Meadows Trail is accessible by multiple areas, but the official trailhead begins at a cul de sac at the end of E Castle Street to the left of an iconic red barn. The initial section of the trail is rock, but soon turns into a boardwalk that rises above the wetlands. Epic views of Mt. Shasta are available throughout the trail.

At the trailhead, there is a sign offering information about the trail along with pictures of the various birds and plants visible in the area. For additional entertainment, activity sheets challenging visitors to identify the different birds and flowers are provided. For those taking their dogs along, waste bags are provided as well.

Shortly after the trailhead, the path forks into two boardwalks. Visitors can go left and follow the boardwalk as it meanders through tall wheatgrass and wild flowers until they arrive at a small pond inhabited by geese and ducks. A bench has been provided so that hikers can relax and take in the scenery. The right fork takes visitors to a small shaded area complete with large boulders and a tiny, but tranquil waterfall.  

Who is Going to Love It

With little to no elevation gain and a level boardwalk, this trail is doable by hikers of all calibers. This is also one of the most scenic ADA-accessible trails in Northern California.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From I-5 N, take exit 378 (Central Mt. Shasta). Turn right on W Lake Street. Continue straight along W Lake Street and then turn left on Mt. Shasta Blvd. Turn right on E Castle Street. The trailhead is located at the end of the cul de sac.

Free parking is available one block south of the trail head.

Dogs are allowed on a leash.