One of DogTrekker’s favorite places to hike is Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, just west of Redding, the hiking capital of California. We’ve long written about Whiskeytown Lake and the 70 miles of dog-friendly trails leading up to four beautiful waterfalls.
As San Francisco Chronicle outdoors columnist Tom Stienstra wrote last week, “the national park that was devoured in an inferno last summer is reopening step-by-step this spring and will be back on the map for Memorial Day weekend.”
He continued, “the Carr Fire burned right down to the water line at both the Whiskey Creek and Oak Bottom boat ramps, but the National Park Service has been able to reopen both facilities. At Oak Bottom last weekend, all types of boats were out, from powerboats to patio boats, from kayaks to SUPs.”
While the trails to the waterfalls have not yet been opened due to hazards from burnt trees, Whiskeytown Lake is well worth the few minutes it takes to reach it from downtown Redding. You can learn more about boat rentals and camping by calling Oak Bottom Marina at (530) 359-2671.
Note: while there is plenty of areas of the lake you and your dog can play, dogs are not allowed on the sandy swimming beaches. Please observe these rules, and always, Leave Only Paw Prints!
Posted on: June 30, 2022