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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyUnpaved

Great Shasta Rail Trail

Mccloud, California · Siskiyou County · McCloud River Railroad

Great Shasta Rail Trail is a easy hiking trail near Mccloud in Siskiyou County, California.. The surface is unpaved. Managed by McCloud River Railroad. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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41.26929, -122.06378
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at Great Shasta Rail Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High97°F
Avg Low66°F
Peak Rain Chance1%
Humidity15%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality135 · Unhealthy for Sensitive
Today
☀️
Clear
93°/59°
🌬 10mph
6:06 AM8:22 PM
Tue
☀️
Clear
98°/66°
🌬 9mph
6:07 AM8:21 PM
Wed
☀️
Clear
97°/68°
🌬 10mph
6:08 AM8:20 PM
Thu
☀️
Clear
96°/67°
🌬 10mph
6:09 AM8:19 PM
Fri
☀️
Clear
99°/68°
💧 1%🌬 9mph
6:10 AM8:18 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Great Shasta Rail Trail

Great Shasta Rail Trail is a easy hiking trail near Mccloud in Siskiyou County, California.. The surface is unpaved. Managed by McCloud River Railroad. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 8)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in California

Trail conditions in California change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Great Shasta Rail Trail?

Great Shasta Rail Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Great Shasta Rail Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

What is the trail surface on Great Shasta Rail Trail?

The surface is unpaved. Suitable for strollers and most footwear.

When is the best time to hike Great Shasta Rail Trail?

California has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Great Shasta Rail Trail?

Great Shasta Rail Trail is managed by McCloud River Railroad. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.