Explore secret California

For general area information, contact the Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association (530/365-7500).

Lodging

Drakesbad Guest Ranch. A historic lodge within Lassen Volcanic National Park, accessed via Chester, on the park’s east side. Cabins and lodge rooms are rustic; many don’t have electricity. Don’t miss the hike to the steamy hot pots of Devils Kitchen. 19 rooms from $155 per person, meals included. End of Warner Valley Rd.; 530/529-1512.

McCloud Hotel Bed & Breakfast. Sweet historic hotel in the small town of McCloud. Woodsy rooms have Victorian-era style. 16 rooms from $120. 408 Main St., McCloud; 530/964-2822.

Dining

Pack picnic foods before you go, or check out these options.

Brown Trout Café, Gallery & Gifts. A gift and garden shop, with coffee and bagels. $; breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. 5841 Sacramento Ave., Dunsmuir; 530/235-0754.

Sengthong’s Restaurant. Delicious Thai choices. $$; dinner daily. 5855 Dunsmuir Ave., Dunsmuir; 530/235-4770.

Three Beans Coffee House & Bakery. Espresso and good pastries. Closed Sun-Mon. 150 Main St., Chester; 530/258-3312.

Attractions

Dunsmuir City Park and Botanical Gardens. On Dunsmuir Ave. near Pioneer Way. Dunsmuir Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, 800/386-7684.

Lassen Volcanic National Park. A drive through the park offers stupendous views of valleys and lakes around Lassen Peak. $10 per vehicle. 530/595-4444.

Lava Beds National Monument. Caving and hiking in a little-traveled monument, formed from volcanic eruptions over thousands of years. Good exhibits at the visitor center. $10 per vehicle; flashlights provided. 530/667-8113.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Lovely 129-foot waterfall, with .3-mile paved trail leading to its base. $6 day-use. 530/335-2777.

Medicine Lake. Lake access usually begins in mid-June; campground opens in July. Call ahead. $7 per vehicle. Modoc National Forest; 530/667-2246.

Sengthong’s Blue Sky Room. Call for performance schedule and prices. 5841 Dunsmuir Ave., Dunsmuir; 530/235-1046.