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Discover historic wonders at Montana’s Pictograph Cave State Park

Witness the magic.

One of the West’s most prolific archeological sites is surprisingly accessible. Pictograph Cave State Park is right outside of Billings, Montana. It’s famous for pictographs inside caves and for a phenomenal dig in the 1930s that revealed more than 30,000 artifacts.

“That really put it on the map of archeology in the West,” said Richard Tooke, the park’s ranger/manager/chief cook and bottle washer.

The 23-acre park includes three caves and is located about seven miles south of Billings. At roughly 50,000 visitors per year, it’s one of the busiest parks in south-central Montana. But when I visited on a Monday morning in early June, there were only a few other folks around. Here’s what I saw there and what you can look forward to when you visit.

A rock and grass landscape at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Pictographs

So, what do the pictographs depict? It’s hard to say for a couple of reasons.

“At least 12 different Northern Plains Indigenous tribes were in and out of here,” said Tooke. Modern Indigenous people might not know what all the pictographs represent. And if they do, they might not want to share that intel with outsiders. Plus, the porous sandstone is not a permanent artistic medium. When people started studying the pictographs in the 1930s, artists recorded about 105 of them. Now it’s hard to see half that many, as rock layers slough off and minerals build up.

Tooke estimates that Montana has 650 to 700 known pictograph sites. Most are on private ranch lands or on remote public lands. “This is one of the few places where people can just get off the interstate and in ten minutes hike up to the cave and see rock art and kind of contemplate this history of these native people being there for thousands of years doing everything people do in life,” Tooke said. The rock art chronicles the lives of long-ago people. “Some of it’s about their spirituality, some of it is simply you know, a grocery list. A grouping of animals, perhaps. This is what you can find here when you hunt and gather.”

A cave wall with pictographs at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

In winter, warm air occasionally hits the super chilled rock just right, and additional pictographs become visible. On those days, “You can see 20 or 30 more pictographs than you can see on a drier surface,” Tooke said. The local Crow people call this place Alahpaláaxawaalaatuua, which means a place where there is spirit writing. Tooke said that many visitors still consider the park a place with “a heavy presence of spirits and energy.”

A cave wall with faint pictographs at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

I visited on a dry day where it was hard to identify all but the most obvious pictographs, such as a grouping of red rifles. I relied heavily on signage to help me find the pictographs on the cave wall.

A sign titled "viewing the pictographs today" at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — Saved from confusion by the interpretive sign! / *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Wildlife at Pictograph Cave State Park

Pictograph Cave State Park is also popular with migratory birds and other wildlife. The visitor center posts a list of about three dozen birds that have recently flown by, including the pinyon jay, northern flicker, Merriam turkey, and the hairy woodpecker.

Tooke told me about a mule deer who for several years running left her fawn on the floor of one of the caves while she went off to forage. “She was pretty smart about leaving her baby where the people would probably dissuade any big cat from coming through,” he said.

The park also has porcupines, coyotes, mule deer, bobcats, mountain lions, and five different types of snakes. Indeed, I was impressed by the most aggressive depiction of a rattlesnake I’ve ever seen on a park warning sign.

A "beware of rattlesnakes" sign at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Pictograph Cave State Park recreation and education

Visitors also come for recreation. Hikers enjoy a circular trail system, while cyclists like the park roads. Even bikers enjoy the region.

“There’s a lot of motorcycle rallies in the area, and those guys are always in and out,” Tooke said.

In addition to offering recreation opportunities, education is a big part of the park’s job. In the fall, many school groups visit. Montana’s Indian Education for All program requires school curricula to cover Indigenous people. A trip to see the pictographs is a fun way to learn. Astronomy clubs also like to bring their telescopes for night sky viewing events.

Artifacts in a glass case at Pictograph Cave State Park in Montana. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Tooke is happy to lead the park’s conservation mission. He explains that he enjoys “taking care of these kind of roadside attractions that have historic cultural meaning and are part of our heritage as Montanans.” Tooke adds that Montanans “take pride in our state park systems and the place we live in.”

Pictograph Cave State Park is open year-round: seven days a week in summer, and five days a week the rest of the year.

Swim, scuba dive, and more at South Carolina’s prettiest lake

Go on an adventure.

While I was visiting Greenville, South Carolina, I took an unofficial poll. The results were unanimous: my sources told me Lake Jocassee is the state’s prettiest lake. The 7,565-acre lake is 42 miles northwest of Greenville in Devil’s Fork State Park. People visit the park to swim, fish, kayak, hike, camp, and even scuba dive.

Learn all about Lake Jocassee and Devil’s Fork State Park in the guide below. And if you’re a runner who plans to be in Greenville next May, see how you can get involved in the local Mountains to Main Street Half Marathon here. It’s a race you won’t want to miss.

People paddling on Lake Jocassee in Devil's Fork State Park in South Carolina. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Recreating in Devil’s Fork State Park

If you visit in springtime, you can hike the easy 1.5-mile Oconee Bell Nature Trail and look for a rare Appalachian flower. Found only in a few places in the mountains of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, Oconee bells are little white and yellow blossoms with red stems.

During my visit to Devil’s Fork State Park, I focused on paddling. I rented a kayak from Jocassee Lake Tours, which also offers guided boat and kayak tours with a naturalist. Two guys from the company met me at one of the park’s three boat ramps and helped me launch. There was little boat traffic on the lake, which surprised me on a Sunday in late May. At times, I saw only lush greenery, water, and the occasional turtle — no other people in sight. You can also rent canoes, kayaks, pontoon boats, and standup paddleboards from Eclectic Sun.

The tip of a blue kayak in water at Lake Jocassee in South Carolina. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

If you want to stay over in the park, rent one of the 20 lakeside villas, some of which are pet-friendly. There are also campsites for RV or tent camping and even one boat-in campground. Boaters can also see a few hidden waterfalls only accessible from the water.

You can swim in Lake Jocassee, too. There are no lifeguards, so be careful and watch your kids.

Birders will also appreciate Devil’s Fork State Park. Visitors can note their sightings on the park’s birding checklist.

A sign pointing to various amenities at Lake Jocassee in South Carolina. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

What’s underwater at Lake Jocassee?

Lake Jocassee is known for its clean, clear water. But what really attracts scuba divers is what’s under the water: a flooded town and cemetery. In 1973, the state partnered with Duke Power to build Jocassee Dam and create the lake. Underwater relics include a lodge, girls’ camp, sunken Chinese boat, and the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. This is the cemetery featured in the 1972 movie “Deliverance” — made one year before the area was turned into a reservoir. Bodies were exhumed before the dam was built, but divers can see headstones 130 feet below the surface. Some divers have even reported spotting artificial flowers.

A turtle on a log at Lake Jocassee in South Carolina. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Lake Jocassee and Devil’s Fork State Park are year-round destinations. Only the hardiest will want to swim in the winter when water temperatures drop to the 50s. But it’s a beautiful place for hiking, birdwatching, and paddling any month of the year.

Disclaimer: While this article was not sponsored, Visit Greenville SC hosted the writer during her visit to South Carolina. As always, Outdoors Wire operates independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

The 5 best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Let’s explore.

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning destination for nature-loving hikers. Stretching across 265,807 acres, this park features a fascinating array of environments, from towering mountains to enchanting forests. The region offers incredible views that will impress all kinds of hikers. Warm weather months treat guests to gorgeous meadows full of wildflowers, while winter invites adventurers to appreciate the park’s serene, snowy vistas. Even travelers who prefer to stay in their car will find beautiful sights along the park’s iconic Trail Ridge Road.

For visitors who are most excited about the park’s top trailside attractions, over 300 miles of hiking trails await. Discover five of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park with our photo guide below.

Escape into a lush forest at this Oklahoma nature preserve

Discover the magic.

It’s a Sunday in spring, and trail ambassadors Kathy and EJ Rossman are explaining Oklahoma’s cross timbers ecosystem to me as we stroll through the Keystone Ancient Forest. I’ve borrowed a darling dog named Hitch and am keeping him on a close leash. We’re in copperhead and timber rattler country here near Sand Springs, Oklahoma.

“We’re just here to help people,” Kathy says, explaining the role of volunteer trail ambassadors. “We tell them a little about the ancient forest. And then trail guides just go out and hike all the trails so that if people need help…” Just then, a hiker asks her for a trail recommendation, and I see her in action.

Keystone has worked hard to make the 1,380-acre forest accessible and inviting, from building a new visitor center to offering burly Trackchairs for wheelchair users. The city of Sand Springs and the Nature Conservancy teamed up to preserve an ecosystem that has largely disappeared.

Two trail ambassadors posing together within Keystone Ancient Forest. — Trail ambassadors EJ and Kathy Rossman. / *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

What are cross timbers?

Cross timbers are new to me. This ecosystem once covered 30,000 square miles, reaching from Texas through Oklahoma and into Kansas. “It’s a joining of the eastern red cedars and the western oaks,” Kathy explains.

“University of Arkansas first identified this as being a special area,” EJ adds as we walk along the Frank Trail. “Cross timbers is — it’s called the ancient forests, but it’s really more of an ecosystem because it’s an assemblage of plants and geography and geology and a mixture of trees and little savannas.”

Coming from Oregon, I don’t find the trees particularly tall. But looks deceive here. “This tree could easily be 60 years old, even though it’s very thin,” Kathy says, pointing to a small oak. Poor soil and lack of sunshine as trees shade one another means they grow slowly. “So you can’t tell the age of the tree just by the diameter of it,” she says. “It really does take coring to see.” Some of the post oaks are 300 years old, and red cedars can reach 500 years.

Author Washington Irving traversed this land in 1832 and left a colorful historical record. He described the “vexations of flesh and spirit” travelers faced “struggling through forests of cast iron.”

Since Irving’s visit, most of the cross timbers have been lost to road construction, agricultural lands, housing, and oil and gas development. Now, the ecosystem also faces invasive species, such as Chinese privet and Japanese honeysuckle. According to the Nature Conservancy website, Keystone Ancient Forest is the first preserve dedicated to preserving historic cross timbers forest.

A hiker on a trail in Keystone Ancient Forest. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Updates to the preserve

As a first-time visitor, I had a little trouble finding Keystone Ancient Forest. The Uber app had the wrong address, so my driver and I were confused when we pulled up on a residential block.

“Uh, it’s supposed to be a forest,” I said, confused. Turned out we were about 10 miles off. My driver, an outdoorsy guy who has lived in the area for 40 years, had never heard of the preserve.

Over the last few years, Keystone has worked to raise its profile. Before that, EJ says the preserve was entirely volunteer-run and only opened once or twice a month, depending on the season. He and Kathy have been volunteering here for about 10 years, so they’ve seen the changes. The visitor center opened in 2021 and is one of the most notable improvements.

A sign for a butterfly exhibit in Keystone Ancient Forest. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

City staff and volunteers have built trails ranging from easy and paved to the rugged, hilly Falls Trail. A new butterfly savanna, the largest in the state, is a special habitat designed to attract 80 butterfly species.

People who want to borrow a Trackchair can reserve ahead — and they can choose between right and left-handed controls.

A Trackchair at Keystone Ancient Forest. — This special track chair makes trails accessible for wheelchair users. / *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Keystone Ancient Forest dog days and other events

On a dog-friendly day, I was lucky enough to borrow an adorable pup named Hitch from a generous employee. Leashed dogs are currently allowed on the first and third weekends of the month. But check the website before your visit, as rules are subject to change.

Guests looking to visit for special events will be happy to know that Keystone Ancient Forest offers a handful of fun activities throughout the year. For the last 10 years, the preserve has held an annual fundraising trail run. Runners can sign up for a 5K, 10K, or 15K.

A white and gray dog on a leash during dog day at Keystone Ancient Forest. — Hitch! / *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

At night, you might find an astronomy club setting up in the parking lot, taking advantage of Keystone’s dark skies. Guided night hikes are also occasionally offered. Kathy especially likes the late-night New Year’s Eve hike. “You can come out here and do a night hike into a new year,” she says.

The Keystone Ancient Forest is a great asset for those in the Tulsa area and visitors wanting to learn about the cross timbers ecosystem. Learn even more about it here.

How Wild Diversity helps BIPOC and LGBTQ communities thrive outdoors

The outdoors are for everyone.

Wild Diversity wants to see more members of BIPOC and LGBTQ2S+ communities outside, whether hiking a trail, paddling a canoe, or camping in the wilderness. Since its founding in 2017, the Portland, Oregon-based nonprofit has tackled an outstanding number of initiatives and programs, including youth summer camps and group adventures for adults. The organization has also trained guides representative of the communities it serves.

Founder Mercy M’fon talked to Outdoors Wire about the need for Wild Diversity, its accomplishments so far, and its dreams for the future.

Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

A group of people from Wild Diversity in kayaks on a lake with mountains in the background. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: Tell us briefly why you started developing Wild Diversity.

M’fon: We started because we wanted to support the BIPOC and LGBTQ community. They were facing a lot of political actions against them. And we know that outdoors provides healing, helps people reset, helps relax, and brings people joy. And I wanted to really be a part of facilitating that for our community.

So we started in 2017. We did this gear drive to get gear so we can run the adventures. It became such a central part of the work we do in helping get people out accessibly. They don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on gear. They can just join us on one of our activities, see if they like it, and not worry about anything else.

We do adventures in Oregon and Washington. Our organization does a wide variety of adventures because we want people to find their own personal love language in the outdoors.

A group of people from Wild Diversity holding up foragables in a forest. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: What obstacles may discourage people in your communities from getting into outdoor adventure?

M’fon: Similar to a lot of people, the outdoors can just be really scary, first and foremost. There’s the gear, there’s the cost, there’s the community, there’s the knowledge and education about going outside and being safe outdoors. For the communities that we serve, they also face things like intimidation, people threatening them. Assault. They face violence outdoors just for existing sometimes. So, it can be really challenging.

We like to go outside as a community. We definitely provide all the education. We’re not just taking people on adventures. For example, if we went on a backpacking trip, we’re teaching them how to properly pack and fit their backpack. Teaching them how to cook, do the critter hang, and even to use the bathroom outdoors, which makes people nervous, too. So we really like to provide them with enough information that they feel comfortable going out on their own or with friends or family. And that’s our goal as a part of these beautiful community experiences is increasing their confidence and competence outdoors.

Two people in lifejackets in a lake. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: It looks like you’ve gathered a large number of diverse guides. How did you find each other?

M’fon: I really like to believe that all these guides found us. In the outdoor industry, you see many organizations say, “We can’t find anyone, we can’t find anyone.” It was always the reoccurring narrative around why they didn’t have diverse guides and diverse representation in the organization.

We put a call out every year for guides. And, some years, we get close to 100 applications of people wanting to join our program. And I think it’s just like there’s people in the community out there that says like, “Yes, I want to support this community. I want to bring joy and access and comfort to this community.” And really just believing and buying into our mission and the work that we’re doing.

The thing about having a guide development program is that you get people who say, “Hey, I might not be a professional who’s been doing this for years and years, but I’m willing to learn how to show up for our community and be outdoors.” I think that is a big step that creates more openness to it. If we’re looking at an industry that doesn’t have a lot of diversity, and we’re asking for diversity that doesn’t exist — are we creating the stair steps for that diversity to exist and to thrive?

A group of hikers posing under a fallen tree in the forest. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: How do you choose from all those guide applications?

M’fon: We look at the applications as a team. For us, the most important thing is “would I want to be on a trip with this person who’s applying?” It’s a lot about personality. I can teach them the camp craft skills, I can teach them the risk management. But are they going to be the person that spending a weekend with them, you’re like, “I want to get out in the outdoors again? I had such a fulfilling time.” And that is the number one thing we’re looking for with our guide program.

A group of people on the shore of a river holding up paddles in front of a kayak. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: What can hikers of any background do to try to support other hikers’ comfort outdoors?

M’fon: When we think about creating welcoming spaces in the outdoors, I think a smile and a hello goes a long way. I’ve heard people say, “I go up to every BIPOC person and I shake their hand.” And I’m like, that could kind of be awkward. It’s like targeting in a different way. The person’s very well-meaning, but it can be uncomfortable when somebody’s giving you this attention that you’re not sure about. So I would just say a smile and a hello goes a long way.

And work on being judgment-free. Not everybody who goes outdoors has the high-end gear or even knows what they’re doing out there. But they’re trying their best. If we can show them empathy and compassion for their situation and not judge them that they’re not at the level we’re at, I think that’s really huge.

Four hikers posing in front of a tree lined lake. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Outdoors Wire: What have you learned in this work that has surprised you?

M’fon: I don’t know if I was in a pessimistic place or if I was just unsure, but I thought it would be something that would be like some youth in the future will have an easier time in the outdoors because of the work we’re doing today. And then we started programming. And the surprising part was that I and our team and all the guides we worked with over the years, we’re making an impact today. With the events that we do, with the representation that we support, with the opportunities and the access we provide. It is not some far off into the future thing that’s going to be the change maker. It is every single thing that our team is doing today, right now, to bring this joy and access to our community.

A person in a kayak on the water. — *Photo courtesy of Wild Diversity*

Here’s how Injinji changed my mind about toe socks

Are they right for you?

One of my friends swears by Injinji toe socks. She touts the lack of rubbing that leaves her toes blister-free, even on long runs. I was skeptical, having not worn toe socks since childhood. My main memory is that it was a pain to get each toe in its individual compartment. In the wide world of modern running socks, could toe socks really offer something that other designs don’t?

To find out, I decided to give toe socks another try and ordered a pair from premium toe sock brand Injinji. Here’s what I found.

A pair of black Injinji toe socks. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Injinji sock family

Injinji has built a toe sock empire. Its website offers socks for running or hiking in hidden, no-show, mini-crew, crew, and over-the-calf lengths. There are even limited-edition socks.

I focused on the mini-crew to keep my shoes from rubbing on the backs of my ankles without adding too much sock height. Within the mini-crew division, there are original weight, lightweight, midweight, and trail varieties. Some categories offer separate socks for men and women. There are even artist-designed socks and a toeless option for extra grip.

After buying and liking an initial pair, it took several days of pondering and revisiting the website to ultimately choose four more pairs of socks. Yes, that was a little extreme at prices of $14 and up. But I’d caught toe sock fever. And I was going for free shipping. I wound up with three pairs of women’s ultra-run mini-crews, a unisex ultra, and one pair of midweight mini-crews. Am I an ultra runner? Heck no. But they sounded nice and cushy.

Trying out the socks

Sure enough, putting on toe socks takes longer than putting on regular socks. But not that much longer. After wearing them a few times, I timed myself. Eighteen seconds per sock to manually get each toe in its rightful place.

Depending on the person, separately encasing each toe may feel luxurious or like a strange amount of extra fabric. I enjoyed the cushy feeling, and my toes enjoyed the luxury experience.

When running, I felt like the Injinji socks protected my toes. If you’re not always on top of your pedicures, these socks may save you from toe-on-toe aggression. Say goodbye to indentations from a next-door neighbor’s sharp toenail. Instead, your toes will live harmonious lives inside their separate compartments. It’s like that old saying: fences make good neighbors.

A single foot in orange and yellow toe socks. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Aesthetics

There are a few other companies making toe socks, but Injinji has the cutest selection. Of course, you can choose something neutral and practical like black or grey. Even these options have some subtle design features, like shadow stripes or a slightly contrasting cuff. But if you like fun, colorful socks, Injinji has you covered.

The first pair I bought were bright yellow mini-crews with orange toes and heels. I followed that purchase with a few more pairs, including a royal blue design with yellow toes and heels.

If you really want to make your sock wardrobe special, check out the artist-designed series. Injinji partners with outdoorsy artists like Sandro Young and Kika MacFarlane to produce limited-edition socks.

A pair of feet in black toe socks against a black and yellow rug. — *Photo by Teresa Bergen*

Toe sock benefits

Okay, they’re cute and colorful. But do toe socks have any real benefits? According to Injinji, the top three reasons for wearing toe socks are blister prevention, total foot utilization, and moisture management.

I experienced the blister protection aspect, as separating each toe eliminated skin-on-skin friction. Injinji also claims that toe socks allow you to engage your entire foot in ways that regular socks don’t, and I could feel this, too.

Like most products in running and in life, you have to try it out for yourself and see if it works for you. I’ve converted to toe socks for running — at least for a while. While I’m still new to the world of toe socks, it seems like a better world so far.

Discover the LA hiking trail frequented by stars like RuPaul and Taylor Swift

Visit a star-studded trail.

Celebrity sightings probably aren’t what draws most hikers to the great outdoors. Still, for fans of people like Taylor Swift, the chance to see your favorite star can be excellent motivation to explore a new trail. If you’re curious to discover a hiking hotspot frequented by celebrities like Swift, Ed Sheeran, and RuPaul, make your way to Los Angeles, California’s Franklin Canyon Park.

Visitors will find this lovely nature retreat tucked away between Beverly Hills and the San Fernando Valley. Rumor has it that couples like Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis love to hike the trails within Franklin Canyon Park. In 2013, Taylor Swift and friend Ed Sheeran were even spotted hiking in the park. Swift was seen hiking Franklin Canyon again in 2019, with then-boyfriend Joe Alwyn.

https://www.instagram.com/taylahschild/p/C0AJQHgN4fL

Want to check out Franklin Canyon Park for yourself? While you’ll want to check the park’s official website for any closures, the area welcomes anyone looking for a place to unwind and escape the city. Get a sense of the area and learn what to expect there with the gallery of Franklin Canyon Park trail photos below.

Mind-blowing sights you’ll see on Glacier National Park’s best hike

It’s a stunner.

Glacier National Park’s Avalanche Lake Trail is one of the best hikes in Montana. Some hikers may even consider it the best hike in America. Join us on a trek through the woods to see what makes Avalanche Lake so special.

Two key factors help determine a trail’s popularity: accessibility and scenery. Spectacular views draw people to a trail, and accessibility ensures that those visitors can actually enjoy exploring the trail. While few trails are accessible to all people, the Avalanche Lake hike’s moderate difficulty makes it manageable for a wide audience of hikers. Plus, the Trail of the Cedars section of the hike is accessible using off-road wheelchairs.

Now, let’s dive into the scenery you can look forward to during your Avalanche Lake hike. If you’re looking for crystal clear waters and breathtaking natural landscapes, you’re in luck. Here are seven photos showing off the best of Glacier National Park’s Avalanche Lake hike.

This year, celebrate Christmas at these 3 national parks

Spend Christmas at a national park.

For many people, Christmas conjures up images of home, family, and traditions like gathering in front of a cozy fireplace hung with stockings. However, lots of folks don’t have a big family they want to spend time with or a house with a fireplace. Instead of feeling like you’re missing out on a perfect holiday, you can start a new tradition this holiday season. Consider spending time in one of America’s beautiful national parks. Stunning parks across the United States invite visitors to go for a hike, enjoy fresh air, and appreciate scenic beauty. This winter, stay at one of these three properties offering festive activities near national parks.

A hotel lodge sitting room with a Christmas tree and presents by a fireplace. — Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon. / *Photo courtesy of Xanterra Travel Collection*

The outdoorsy traveler’s guide to Redding, California

Discover the city’s top adventures.

California gives adventurous travelers seemingly endless outdoor travel possibilities. You can surf by the shore, ski the summits, and hike gorgeous trails. The state even has nine national parks to visit. Among those national parks are heavy-hitters like Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite. With so many activities and destinations to explore, individual California towns can sometimes be overlooked by tourists planning their next trip. Don’t make that mistake the next time you’re near the charming town of Redding.

Redding, California, claims the title of “sunniest city in all of California.” It also enjoys spectacular views of nearby Mount Shasta. On a recent trip to the area, Outdoors Wire scoped out some of the city’s best spots and recreation opportunities. What we found will have you itching to plan a visit. Here are five awesome outdoor activities to experience in and around Redding.