Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark is a geologic adventure for your whole family. Take part in a robust and comprehensive tour to see the caverns and lake in their glory. Along the way, you might see local animals, like bald eagles, mountain lions and black bears.

The whole experience really is three adventures in one. You start with a scenic catamaran cruise across Shasta Lake, then transfer to a bus that winds up to the cave entrance, and finally explore what some geologists consider one of the most beautiful limestone caves in the United States. The water on the lake can be surprisingly clear, and from the boat you get a real sense of how massive the reservoir is. The bus ride itself is worth noting—it’s not just transportation but part of the experience, giving you views you wouldn’t get any other way.

Currently Lake Shasta Caverns allow small dogs to go through the tour as long as they’re able to be picked up and carried through sections to ensure the safety of the animal and other patrons. Service and ESA dogs of any size are always allowed. If you have a small dog that’s used to being handled and isn’t stressed by boat rides, this can work well. Just be realistic about your dog’s comfort level with the catamaran and being in a carrier during parts of the cave tour.

The entrance is only 20 minutes from most Redding-area lodging properties, making it easy to fit into a weekend trip without too much driving. Allow two hours total for the tour, including both boat and bus rides. This is helpful planning if you’re combining it with other activities around the lake or heading back to your accommodation for dinner.