As the second largest mountain in California, Mt Shasta has no problem dominating the Sacramento valley floor.

Mt Shasta gives outdoor enthusiasts many opportunities to enjoy some outstanding hiking, mountaineering and snow sports. But that isn't all. Few people know that during the summer time, the ski park is open for mountain bikers to get a lift up the side of the mountain and then ride back down. Many families who enjoy mountain biking, take advantage of this inexpensive activity.

For those families who wish to see the mountain up close and personal, you may drive up Everitt Memorial Highway to Bunny Flat and park your car. From here you may hike up to Horse Camp . If you plan to bring your children along, be advised that the hike to Horse Camp is about 2 miles and an elevation gain of 1000 ft. Plan accordingly. This is, however, a good little day trip for families that just want to experience a nice hike and see nice views of the mountain. Figure about 4 hours for a round trip.

For those families who wish to climb all the way to the top, you must obtain a permit at the Mt Shasta or McCloud Ranger District Offices. The fee is $15 per person, however, children under 16 years old are not required to pay.

Be advised that summitting Mt Shasta is a strenuous hike and should not be attempted unless you and your family are in good physical condition. From Bunny Flats (the main parking lot) to the summit is about 6 miles and an elevation gain over 7000 feet. For those in good physical condition, you can plan anywhere from 6-10 hours of ascent time.

If you do plan to summit Mt Shasta, here are some tips:

When is a good time to climb Mt Shasta?

Generally May to September are the best months to hike Mt Shasta, because the weather has generally stabilized itself. However, it is advised that you check the local weather before taking off. Since Mt Shasta is so big, it tends to make it's own weather.

In our opinion, however, we have found that late June through July tend to be the best times to climb, offering the most clear weather and best views from the top.

What is the best route to take?

Most beginners and first timers take the Avalanche Gulch route. This route begins at Bunny Flat and is marked by signs along the way. After you reach Horse Camp, you will follow the trail up to Lake Helen (not a real lake), where most people set up their tent and spend a night so they can acclimate to the altitude. You should have no problem identifying Lake Helen because it will be where all the tents are!

If you are truly adventurous, you can hike this route in a day, however, you will need to start out around midnight (from Bunny Flats) and go the distance to the summit. Climbing Mt. Shasta is not like other 14ers because the weather is so much warmer in the the Sacramento valley. The snow gets loose and mushy in the late morning, making the chance of an avalanche much higher if you try to be on the mountain, above Lake Helen, after noon. Therefore it is recommended that you be off the summit by 10 a.m at the latest. Of course, this can all depend on the weather too, however. If it is cool, the chance of an avalanche is much lower.

Do I need any special equipment?

This depends on the time of year that you climb. If there is still snow above Lake Helen (10,400 feet), then you should wear crampons and bring an ice axe. If you climb later in the year (Aug.-Sept.) then you may not need either, because most snow has melted. If you do climb later in the year, when there is little or no snow, it is highly recommended that you wear a helmet. There will be many falling and loose rocks during this time of the year.

Anything else I should know before leaving?

Follow the basic rules of backcountry backpacking. "Pack it in-pack it out." If you have to "do your business," bring plastic bags and brown bags so that you may pack your waste out. Respect your fellow hikers and let those going up have the right of way. If you dislodge rocks or snow, yell down to those below you letting them know what is coming their way. Depending on the winter snowfall, the snowpack may melt off early in the summer and by August you may encounter a lot of scree (loose rock) on the way up the mountain.

Since the weather can be unpredictable, it is a good idea to bring along rain/snow gear and a survival blanket.

As mentioned above, Mt. Shasta is not a stroll in the park and therefore you should do a little training before climbing-if you have never been above 10,000 ft (3,000 meters). It is not necessary to do some climatizing climbs on other mountains (although this would be good), but you should be in good shape and capable of sustained climbing for a long period of time.

There is no more spring water after Horse camp, so you will have to bring along a stove and pot so you can melt snow for drinking water. Remember to boil your water for at least 5 minutes to kill off any giardia or bacteria. DO NOT DRINK from any streams without filtering or boiling first! You will get sick.