What to Do in Dunsmuir CA: A Local Guide for Visitors
Dunsmuir CA does not always make the top of tourist lists for Northern California, but it probably should. Tucked into the Shasta-Trinity National Forest at the foot of Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir CA has natural beauty, outdoor access, a walkable historic downtown, and some genuinely good local food. If you know where to look, a few hours or a full weekend in Dunsmuir CA is time well spent.
Outdoor Adventures Near Dunsmuir CA
The Sacramento River in Dunsmuir CA is one of the most pristine sections of the river system and a renowned trout fishing destination. The clear, cold water is fed by snowmelt from Mount Shasta, and the canyon it runs through is dramatic and beautiful.
Mossbrae Falls is a short hike from Dunsmuir CA and one of the most photographed waterfalls in Northern California. The trail follows the railroad tracks and delivers you to a series of springs cascading from a mossy cliffside directly into the Sacramento River.
Castle Crags State Park is just a few miles south of Dunsmuir CA and offers trails through ancient granite peaks above the treeline. The crags themselves are striking against the backdrop of Mount Shasta to the north.
Downtown Dunsmuir CA
Dunsmuir Avenue runs through the heart of town and has a handful of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The downtown was built around the railroad industry and still has that historic rail town character. It is a small walkable area that rewards slow exploration.
If you are visiting Dunsmuir CA for the first time, give yourself at least an hour to walk around before or after a meal.
Where to Eat in Dunsmuir CA
Yaks on the 5 is the standout dining option in Dunsmuir CA. We serve food that is made well and presented with care, in a space that fits the character of the town. Whether you are passing through on I-5 or staying in the area for a night or a weekend, Yaks is the meal you will remember from your time in Dunsmuir CA.
Come by and say hello. We love meeting travelers and locals alike.
