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Redding is the largest city in far Northern California and the seat of Shasta County, set where the Sacramento River leaves the mountains and enters the northern end of the Sacramento Valley. It was founded in 1872 as a railroad town and named for Benjamin B. Redding, a land agent for the Central Pacific Railroad, and it was incorporated in 1887. Gold mining, timber and the building of nearby Shasta Dam shaped its growth.
The city's landmark is the Sundial Bridge, a glass-decked pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava that opened in 2004 over the Sacramento River. It links Turtle Bay Exploration Park, with its museum and botanical gardens, to the miles of paved trails along the river.
Redding is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Shasta Dam and Shasta Lake lie just north, Whiskeytown Lake is a short drive west, and Lassen Volcanic National Park and Mount Shasta are within easy reach. Downtown keeps the restored 1935 Cascade Theatre.
A glass-decked pedestrian bridge over the Sacramento River designed by Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2004. Its tall white pylon acts as a giant sundial. It links Turtle Bay with the arboretum and river trails. Walk it at sunset, and wear sunglasses at midday, as the white structure is very bright.
A museum and park campus by the Sundial Bridge, with exhibits on natural history and the region, a small animal area, a butterfly house in summer and seasonal shows. It is very family friendly. Buy a combined ticket for the museum and gardens, and plan at least two hours to see everything.
Gardens across the Sundial Bridge from Turtle Bay, with plants from Mediterranean climates worldwide, a children's garden, water features and trails through riverside woodland. It is part of the Turtle Bay campus. The outer arboretum trails are free, while the gardens need a ticket; go early in summer.
A large riverside park in Redding with lawns, picnic areas, an aquatic center with pools and a playground, plus access to the Sacramento River Trail. It is a common start for walks and bike rides. The pools are popular in summer; come early on hot days for a shaded table.
A paved trail along both banks of the Sacramento River, forming loops of various lengths and linking the Sundial Bridge, parks and the Ribbon Bridge. It is great for walking, running and cycling, with river views and wildlife. Bring water and go early in summer, as Redding is one of the hottest cities in California.
A restored 1935 Art Deco movie palace in downtown Redding, with a striking neon sign and decorated interior. It hosts concerts, touring shows, classic films and community events. Check the calendar for upcoming performances, and look closely at the restored murals inside.
The remains of the Gold Rush town of Shasta, a few miles west of Redding, with brick ruins along the old main street and a restored courthouse museum with a jail and gallows. It shows the rise and fall of the mining era. Check museum hours, and walk the ruins and old cemetery.
Shasta Dam, finished in 1945, is one of the largest concrete dams in the United States, holding back Shasta Lake with its many arms and houseboats. The visitor center and dam walkway offer views of Mount Shasta on clear days. Check for free dam tours, and rent a boat on the lake in summer.
A national recreation area west of Redding around Whiskeytown Lake, with clear water, beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, camping and hiking to waterfalls. The visitor center has maps and an entrance pass. Brandy Creek Beach is popular for swimming; arrive early on summer weekends.
Limestone caverns north of Redding reached by a boat ride across Shasta Lake and a bus up the mountain. Guided tours show stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations. It is a cool escape in summer heat, but involves many stairs; book tours ahead and allow about two to three hours.
A 220-foot waterfall in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, reached by a hike of about 3.4 miles round trip. The trail climbs steadily through forest to a series of cascades. It is best in spring when the flow is strong; bring water, start early in summer, and expect the parking lot to fill.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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