Category: Whiskeytown Lake

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Where can you see the real night sky near Redding?

Light pollution. That sounds ugly, but that’s what it is. For many places on the modern earth, the night sky is not filled with stars. Fortunately, nearby to Redding you can see the Milky Way and other wonders of celestial majesty with the clarity more familiar to our immediate ancestors. 


light

This segment of map comes from here: Light Pollution Map

Local dark sky enthusiasts head west to the Whiskeytown Visitor Center parking lot for quick access. But it looks like a camping trip to Old Station in the east might be best. Just a bit further. I’ve seen several fantastic Milky Way shots with Mt Lassen in the image, so evidently that’s a good choice as well. Check out the amazing work of local photographer Cory Poole for a 2024 Calendar of jaw dropping images like this:

Milky Way and Lassen by Cory Pool

Makes great Christmas gifts!!! 

It’s Really Redding.

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Whiskeytown Memorial Sailing Regatta 2016

Every year the Whiskeytown Sailing Club hosts a regatta event on Memorial Day. It’s always so very beautiful to see so many graceful sailboats racing on the lake. Here are a few images I captured yesterday. Click to expand.
Kayaks and sailboats at WhiskeytownDucks n chicks at Whiskeytown 2

Ducks n chicks at WhiskeytownI made a short video about the event a few years ago, and I’m re-posting it here:

In Redding we are fortunate indeed to have many lakes and rivers so nearby. Among them, Whiskeytown shines as a special jewel. The regatta event runs today, Sunday too. Well worth the short drive to see and experience.

Talon at Whiskeytown

Lake life; it’s Really Redding.

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Riley rides Redding

In Redding, we are blessed to have Whiskeytown National Recreation Area literally a few minutes drive to the west. In addition to being home to a beautiful lake, the area has numerous trails to explore. Below, my friend and colleague Riley Johnson of Shasta Home Inspections quietly rides a single track section of the famous 10 mile Chimney trail in this brief video. Check it out:
It offers a glimpse into the adventure, but also the serenity of the ride. There are lots of trails at the park. This website details local trails and offers an interesting 3D view of the path. 5 miles uphill, and 5 miles downhill.
Chimney trailHere’s how the area looks from across the lake.
Whiskey in Winter 1280
Thanks for sharing, Riley. Beautiful riding all around us. It’s Really Redding.

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Ranger led Kayak tours of Whiskeytown Lake begin June 18

Kayaks in Whiskeytown Lake
Ranger-led programs begin June 18, 2011 and are offered through Labor Day weekend.
Some programs, such as the Kayak Tours may be offered beyond Labor Day, weather permitting. You can call the visitor center at (530) 246-1225, or call Ranger Clinton Kane at (530) 242-3451 for the latest information on park programs.
Kids need to be 6 and up. Offered at 9:30 am and 6:00 pm daily, with an additional 12:30 tour on Saturdays and Sundays. (2.5 hour program) More at the Whiskeytown website. Waterlife, it’s Really Redding.