A True Hidden Gem, Glacially Formed Castle Lake Is Perfect For Northern California Nature Lovers

In Northern California, there’s no shortage of natural beauty - especially when it comes to Castle Lake. From the ocean to the mountains to the deserts and everything in between, you’ll find scores of amazing spots that’ll take your breath away. Among these amazing locales is a plethora of lesser-known areas well worth a visit, including Castle Lake, one of the best lakes in NorCal and a true hidden gem for nature lovers.

Located in the midst of the Shasta Trinity National Forest, Castle Lake is just a short 30-minute drive from the town of Dunsmuir.

Historians contend that the lake, which now encompasses approximately 47 acres, was formed by glaciers over 10,000 years ago. The water here is crystal clear, plunging to a depth of 120 feet at its deepest point.

All around Castle Lake, a true hidden gem for nature lovers, is a diverse landscape.

Meander around and take in the lush greenery, thickly forested areas, and craggy mountain peaks in all directions as far as the eye can see.

If you’re into hiking, embark upon the aptly named Castle Lake Trail.

The trail is not for the faint of heart, but you have the option of traversing part of it or going for the California gold along the entire 10.2-mile, out-and-back route. The views are breathtaking, so be sure to take lots of photos.

The Castle Lake Trail offers various offshoots from which to explore different parts of the area.

Each offers a unique aspect of this wilderness area. Little Castle Lake is the "younger sister" to the main lake, while Heart Lake is named after its basic shape. The trail to Mt. Bradley Lookout passes by both of the aforementioned lakes as it climbs dramatically in elevation.

No matter what side of the lake you’re on, you’ll enjoy remarkable views. After all, it's one of the best Northern California lakes.

In the warm weather months, visitors here enjoy fishing, swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and other recreational activities.

Even in the winter and when shrouded in clouds, the area is a welcome hidden gem for nature lovers looking to get away from the customary hustle and bustle of life.

Believe it or not, you can actually ice fish here! If you’re up for that kind of adventure, under the frozen surface you’ll find several kinds of fish including rainbow trout and gold shiners, just to name a few. This is just another reason why Castle Lake is one of the best lakes in NorCal.

Although anytime is a good time to come to Castle Lake, it is most popular from about May through October.

Have you been to Castle Lake? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. You can also tell us about your other Northern California lakes via our nomination form for the chance to see your suggestions featured in an upcoming article! While in the area, consider checking out nearby Castle Crags State Park, which offers a variety of hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking, opportunities.

Check out this YouTube video by us at OnlyInYourState to learn about a breathtaking phenomenon at Yosemite National Park's Horsetail Falls that only happens for two weeks out of the entire year: