If you’ve never heard of or seen Heart Lake in Mount Shasta before, let us be the first to show you just how incredible this hike is! After doing hundreds of hikes around California, the Heart Lake Trail has easily become one of our absolute favorite hikes. So much so, that we’ve done it 3 times now, and will likely do it again.
So let’s jump in to this guide to hiking the Heart Lake Trail in Mount Shasta!
MAP OF MOUNT SHASTA
Mount Shasta is located in Northern California, within the southern part of the Cascade Range. It rises prominently in Siskiyou County, about 60 miles south of the Oregon border and 200 miles north of Sacramento. The mountain is surrounded by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and lies close to several small towns, including Mount Shasta City and Weed. As one of California’s tallest peaks, it stands at 14,179 feet and is a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and skiing, with its snow-capped summit visible from miles around.
HEART LAKE TRAIL BASICS
- DIFFICULTY – Moderate
- LENGTH – 3.0mi / 4.8km up and back
- ELEVATION GAIN – 813ft / 248m
- TIME NEEDED – 2 hours
- PET FRIENDLY – Pets are permitted – but must be kept on leash and picked up after
HEART LAKE TRAIL SUMMARY
The Heart Lake Trail starts at the Castle Lake parking area located in the Castle Crags Wilderness. There is a small parking lot with bathrooms that can accommodate around 30-40 vehicles. During peak months, this parking lot can fill up quickly, as Castle Lake is a popular area for picnicking, paddle boarding and swimming. So plan accordingly!
HEART LAKE TRAIL VIA CASTLE LAKE
From the parking lot, the Heart Lake Trail veers to the left and runs along the eastern side of the lake. Once you leave the parking area, the trail itself is well-maintained, but has very few markers. As you approach 0.75mi, it can be quite easy to find yourself off-trail as there are many unofficial paths that people have made to create shortcuts. We’d recommend downloading an offline map on AllTrails or otherwise to make sure you stay on track.
HEART LAKE
At around 1.2 miles, you’ll reach Heart Lake. It will be somewhat deceiving, as it does not appear to be in the shape of a heart from round level, and simply looks like a small pond. The lake’s heart shape isn’t what makes it truly magical. The reflection of Mount Shasta as the sun rises or sets is what makes it one of the best hikes in California!
THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE HEART LAKE TRAIL
In our experience, the best time to hike the Heart Lake Trail is just before sunset. It typically takes around 30-45 minutes to hike up to the lake, so we’d recommend starting the hike at least 1 hour before sunset.
When you arrive at the lake, you will want to follow a narrow footpath to the left that runs around the lake. At the back of the lake, you will find some large boulders. This is where you will want to take your photos from. As the sun sets, Mount Shasta lights up with a vibrant alpenglow and creates the most spectacular reflection on Heart Lake.
TRAIL MAP OF HEART LAKE
While the best views are arguably at Heart Lake itself, the trail actually continues on from the lake and has additional viewing options. From Heart Lake, the trail continues on for about 0.3mi and has a relatively steep incline. This higher viewing area is less popular, so you’re likely to have it all to yourself, unlike Heart Lake, which can get quite crowded. But the views from here include Castle Lake, Mount Shasta and much of the surrounding mountain range.
DESCEND FROM HEART LAKE
If you choose to do a sunset hike, the descent from Heart Lake will likely be in the dark. So you will want to make sure you have proper clothing for cooler temps, as well as headlamps or flashlights to light the way down. Don’t be surprised if you encounter deer and other wildlife along your way. While there can be bears and mountain lions in the area, we have not personally come across either, and would recommend having a bear bell or spray on-hand just in case.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HEART LAKE TRAIL
ARE DOGS ALLOWED ON THE HEART LAKE TRAIL?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on the Heart Lake Trail, but if you plan to bring your pup along, they must be leashed and picked up after. It is always important to practice Leave No Trace. And you’ll want to make note of the elevation gain and somewhat rocky terrain on some areas of the trail. If your furry friend isn’t used to high-elevation hikes, consider leaving them behind.
IS THE HEART LAKE TRAIL OPEN YEAR-ROUND?
The short answer is yes. The long answer is that Castle Lake Road does typically close at times during the winter due to snowfall. So if you plan to visit and hike during the winter (which we’ve been told is STUNNING!), we’d recommend checking local road conditions beforehand.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT?
The best time to visit and hike the Heart Lake Trail, really depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. All 3 times we’ve hiked this trail, it’s been during the fall (August-October) and it was absolutely beautiful. The fall months offer cooler weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful autumn colors. Spring offers a similar experience, however it can be challenging to time visits during the spring due to unpredictable snowfall. Summer (June to August) is ideal for warm weather activities, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. This however means that Castle Lake and the trail tend to be busier and more crowded, which also impacts parking. Winter attracts snowshoers and ice fishers, though the lake and road may be blanketed in snow.
DO I NEED A PERMIT OR RESERVATION TO HIKE THE HEART LAKE TRAIL?
Good news, you do not! There is no cost, fee, permit or reservation required to visit either Castle Lake or to hike the Heart Lake Trail. This means the lakes and trail can get crowded during peak seasons and months. So if you do plan to visit, plan accordingly!
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR AND PACK TO HIKE THE HEART LAKE TRAIL?
Depending on the month and season you visit, it could change what you need to bring with you. But there are some general basics that we think are must-packs and will make your hike much more enjoyable!
- Hiking boots – The type of footwear you wear, can literally make or break your hiking experience. We recommend a sturdy mid to high-ankle hiking boot like the Merrell Nova 3 due to some of the uneven rock and ground that you’ll be hiking on.
- Backpack / Daypack – Odds are you’re going to carry all of the below items in, so a good backpack or daypack like The North Face Recon is an absolute must!
- Water reservoir – For the longest time, we would pack both of our metal reusable water bottles in our daypacks, and not only did it add unnecessary weight, but it was also time consuming to stop and take our water bottles out of the backpack. We’ve since upgraded to the CamelBak Fusion 2L Reservoir, and it has been a game changer!
- Sun protection – Sun protection is crucial. Although much of the trail is shaded, it’s still important to bring proper sun protection. We have found Sun Bum to be our go-to!
- Headlamps – We mentioned earlier on, that headlamps are a must when hiking the Heart Lake Trail at sunset. Our preferred and arguably the most popular, is the Black Diamond Spot 400.
- Hiking poles – Speaking of Black Diamond, they also make some of the best and most popular hiking and trekking poles. If you are someone who finds hiking to be easier with some extra stability support, then these are for you!
- Jackets & Layers – Layers are your friend. As you hike up, your core temperature rises, and you’ll probably start feeling hot and sweaty. Then on the way down, the cooler temps as the sun goes down makes that moisture feel quite cool. So you’ll want moisture wicking layers like merino wool. Our personal favorites, are from Patagonia. Particularly their Capilene line.
- Socks – Speaking of merino wool, a good pair of merino wool socks will also go a long way in keeping your feet comfy, dry and let’s face it… Less smelly afterwards!
- Snacks – Whether you’re a chronic snacker like Katy, or just the casual when necessary snacker like me, it’s always good to have something on-hand just in case. A little protein can also go a long way in making your hike more enjoyable!
LODGING IN MOUNT SHASTA CALIFORNIA
Mount Shasta offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences, from cozy cabins and rustic lodges to modern hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts. Additionally, campgrounds and RV parks are available for those who prefer a more nature-centered experience, with several located near the base of the mountain and around nearby lakes.
OTHER THINGS TO DO AROUND MOUNT SHASTA
Mount Shasta is a hub for outdoor adventure, offering a variety of popular activities and scenic spots for visitors. Hiking is a top attraction, with trails ranging from easy walks around alpine lakes, like Castle Lake, to challenging ascents up Mount Shasta itself. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular in winter, particularly at Mount Shasta Ski Park. Visitors can also explore McCloud Falls, a series of beautiful waterfalls with accessible trails, or enjoy kayaking and fishing at Siskiyou Lake. If chasing waterfalls is something you enjoy doing, check out our WATERFALLS IN CALIFORNIA YOU MUST VISIT which includes a number of waterfalls around Mount Shasta. Year-round, the area’s stunning vistas and serene wilderness make it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
MAP OF CALIFORNIA
Want to see all of the different things to do around Mount Shasta? If so, this map is for you. Not only does our interactive map of California have ALL the details and location info for this Heart Lake Trail, but it also has over 450 other points of interest in California in it. With all of the location specific details and information like GPS location, dog-friendliness, cost, and more, as well as an itinerary creator, this map is the perfect trip planning companion.
Not much of a planner? No worries! We also have curated itineraries to make the planning process easier for you. And if that isn’t enough, book a call with us or have us create a custom itinerary for you! We are here to help!
HOW TO HIKE THE HEART LAKE TRAIL IN MOUNT SHASTA
Hiking the Heart Lake Trail in Mount Shasta is a rewarding experience. Offering breathtaking views, peaceful surroundings, and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the lake. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic adventure, this trail delivers with its stunning alpine beauty. Remember to pack plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and take your time to fully enjoy the journey. By the end of the hike, you’ll understand why Heart Lake is such a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. So, lace up your boots, hit the trail, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mount Shasta!
Let us know what you thought of this or if you have any questions by leaving a comment below! Happy hiking!
