There is no specific information available about the visitor center hours at Sáttítla Highlands National Monument. However, you can check with the US Forest Service or contact the monument directly for the most up-to-date information.
There is no entrance fee required to visit Sáttítla Highlands National Monument.
From Redding, take I-5 North to Highway 97, then head east towards the Cascade Range, immersing yourself in ancient volcanic landscapes and pristine wilderness.
Parking options at Sáttítla Highlands National Monument are limited; small parking lots scattered throughout, suitable for cars and smaller RVs. No designated RV parks or large RV parking. Motorcycles can park in standard lots. Overnight parking is not permitted. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of Northern California’s Cascade Range, the Sáttítla Highlands National Monument stands as a testament to natural and cultural grandeur. Spanning 224,676 acres across the Modoc, Shasta-Trinity, and Klamath national forests, this monument is a tapestry of varied habitats, ancestral homelands, and scientific treasures. At its core lies the majestic Medicine Lake Volcano, a dormant giant covering an area roughly 10 times that of Mount St. Helens.
The landscape here is a dramatic interplay of volcanic craters, cinder cones, and lava tubes, including the world’s longest known lava tube system, Giant Crater. Amidst stark lava fields, relict forest communities and lush forests thrive, offering exceptional outdoor recreation. Hikers can explore trails like the Medicine Lake Trail, which winds through forests and around the volcano’s flank. The waters here are home to a variety of fish species, making it a paradise for anglers.
As night falls, the skies transform into a celestial canvas, among the darkest in the United States, perfect for stargazing. Seasonal changes paint the landscape with vibrant colors; spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm hiking days, autumn leaves turn golden, and winter invites snowmobilers and skiers.
Nearby, the charming town of Mount Shasta beckons with its artisan shops and local outfitters like the Mount Shasta Bioregional Ecology Center. Visitors can enjoy ranger-led canoe tours on Medicine Lake or participate in seasonal festivals that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage. For those seeking a more immersive experience, historic cabins and lodges dot the landscape, providing cozy retreats after a day of exploration.
Sáttítla Highlands National Monument is a destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor adventure, making it an irresistible draw for experience-seeking travelers. Whether you come for the geologic wonders, the vibrant wildlife, or the celestial nights, this place promises to leave an indelible mark on your travels.
- Area (mi²)
- 351
- Annual visitors
- 52 550
- Established year
- 2025
Top 3 Facts about Sáttítla Highlands National Monument
Between 1965 and 1967, NASA used the Pumice Crater area for Apollo program astronaut training, preparing them to collect and identify lunar-like geologic features, with four of these astronauts later flying Apollo missions.
In this breathtaking landscape, rare species thrive, including the northern spotted owl, Cascades frog, and long-toed salamander. The sugarstick, a parasitic plant, clings to the roots of old-growth conifers, while the federally listed whitebark pine stands tall. Blue ribbon trout swim in the lakes, and bald eagles soar overhead. Black bears and Sierra martens roam the forests, and the gray-headed pika finds refuge in the high-elevation habitats. This diverse ecosystem, enriched by volcanic geology and obsidian deposits, is a haven for both wildlife and those seeking an immersive natural experience.
At the heart of this protected landscape stands the massive Medicine Lake Volcano, spanning an area roughly 10 times that of Mount St. Helens. The region’s dramatic volcanic history has crafted a landscape of stark lava fields interspersed with lush, verdant forests and hundreds of cave-like lava tubes, including the Giant Crater, the longest known lava tube system in the world. The night skies here are among the darkest in the U.S., offering unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Crystal-clear waters originating from these highlands sustain millions, while the terrain invites adventurous souls to hike, bike, and explore under the vast, star-filled sky.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days for this vast territory, especially during summer months. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for rocky trails. Bring water, snacks, and meals as services are limited. Visit the visitors center first, and rest often. Enjoy stargazing on clear nights, a highlight of the darkest skies in the US.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, a 20-40 liter backpack for essentials, and a first-aid kit. Bring a hydration reservoir, trekking poles, and UV-blocking sunglasses. Don’t forget a headlamp, sunscreen, and nutritionally dense snacks. Adjust gear based on the duration of your stay.
Respect Wildlife
When exploring this volcanic landscape, respect the northern spotted owl and other wildlife by keeping noise levels down and staying on designated trails. Avoid disturbing lava tubes and underground aquifers, especially during dry seasons. Leave no trace to preserve this unique ecosystem.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on trails, ledges, and near water or hot springs. Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and park rules. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Monitor your altitude acclimatization and watch for storm signs.
Seasons
In spring, from April to June, with temperatures in the 50s-70s°F, experience vibrant wildflowers and greenery amid stark lava fields. Witness the annual Medicine Lake Volcano blooms and traditional Indigenous ceremonies, set against a backdrop of dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush forests. Ideal for hiking, stargazing, and immersing in rich cultural heritage.
Explore this volcanic wonderland in summer, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, ideal for hiking, biking, and canoeing. Witness the darkest night skies in July and August, perfect for stargazing. No specific summer events, but abundant outdoor adventures await.
Visit in fall for crisp 40-60°F temperatures and golden landscapes. Witness the annual Harvest Moon, a time of cultural significance for Indigenous tribes. Ideal for hiking, stargazing, and trout fishing amidst vibrant autumn colors.
Visit from December to March for a serene winter wonderland. Temperatures range from 20°F to 40°F, with heavy snowfall. Ideal for snowmobiling and stargazing, but challenging for hiking and driving. For the adventurous, this season offers unparalleled tranquility and cosmic views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sáttítla Highlands National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Sáttítla Highlands National Monument is Mount Shasta, located in Siskiyou County, California. This area is northeast of Mount Shasta and south of Lava Beds National Monument.
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Dogs are technically allowed, but carrying them up and down ladders can be quite challenging, so it is recommended to leave them at home.
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Yes, you can park an RV, camper, or motorhome at the monument, as there are both primitive campsites and RV-friendly spots available. These sites can accommodate various sizes of RVs, including Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes, as well as camper vans and trailers.
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Hike over 500 miles of trails through diverse landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and lava flows. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking, snowmobiling, camping, hunting, and scenic driving. Visit Medicine Lake for swimming, boating, and exploring hiking trails, as well as observing rare plant and animal species like the long-toed salamander and northern spotted owl.