Mount Shasta (Winter)

The prominent Mt. Shasta is both the heart of Native American creation myths and the centerpiece of more than 100 New Age spiritual movements. Long believed to heal, inspire and craft magic, this 14,162-foot stratovolcano draws its share of characters, including the resident Shasta, Modoc, Ajumawi/Atsuwegi, and Wintu peoples; a slew of mystics promising all varieties of healing techniques; and serious outdoor adventurers looking to reach her dramatic snow-topped summit. Just one glance at this majestic mountain and you'll intuit why seekers plant roots in the New Agey town of Mt Shasta City — one whiff of this alpine air and you may be ...

The prominent Mt. Shasta is both the heart of Native American creation myths and the centerpiece of more than 100 New Age spiritual movements. Long believed to heal, inspire and craft magic, this 14,162-foot stratovolcano draws its share of characters, including the resident Shasta, Modoc, Ajumawi/Atsuwegi, and Wintu peoples; a slew of mystics promising all varieties of healing techniques; and serious outdoor adventurers looking to reach her dramatic snow-topped summit. Just one glance at this majestic mountain and you'll intuit why seekers plant roots in the New Agey town of Mt Shasta City — one whiff of this alpine air and you may be researching real estate for yourself. Bundle up to stroll along the craftsman houses inhabited by crystal shops, spiritual bookstores and organic eateries. Stop for a hot cocoa (spiked with Baileys and whipped cream) in the shadow of the peak, or sip wine in the wide windowed galleries. Be sure to snake up the mountain roads to gaze at the sea of white-tipped trees that blanket the Cascades. Then go for a ski down the mountain, ice skate in downtown, and finally curl up by the fire to read a good book. Year round the power of the region inspires.

About the Expert

Michele Bigley is the author of Northern California: An Explorer's Guide and Great Destinations Kauai from Countryman Press.