Aug. 8, 2026

My first stop was the McCloud waterfalls. Cool series of three canyon waterfalls on the east side of I-5. On the west side was my main hike to Heart Lake. Tons of people were already at the start of the trail which is at Castle lake. This lake is larger and popular for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarders. The trail up was a bit difficult as it is super rocky and I was breaking in a new pair of hiking boots. I made it to the lopsided heart and saw a garter snake swimming in the water. I was proud of myself for not screaming. The view of Mt Shasta was amazing even with the smoke filling the valley.