Muted earlier this spring by the wet winter, the Shasta Cascade region is starting to unveil its botanical beauty.
Each elevation yields hot spots for wildflower viewing through August. According to the Anderson-based Shasta Cascade Wonderland Association, Shasta lilies can be spotted starting in June at Castle Crags State Park near Dunsmuir, where you also can see a show of blooming dogwoods, Scotch broom and wild orchids. Indian warrior wildflowers and lupines lure visitors to the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area just west of Redding. And the Feather River Canyon east of Oroville showcases monkey flowers, lupines and the redbud shrub.
Once the roads clear from winter snow (late June/early July), you can explore the Lassen Volcanic National Park east of Red Bluff and Redding, where snow plant, crimson columbine and shooting star wildflowers paint the hillsides and landscapes.
While in the area, don't forget to visit McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park in eastern Shasta County, about 1 1/4 hours from Redding.
It provides several trails for hikers, and 129-foot Burney Falls deliver an excellent viewing experience all year, as the water comes out from underground springs. You can walk down to the base of the waterfall, or follow the pathway to Lake Britton, where you can rent paddle boats, enjoy the beach, fish or canoe.
Stay informed on many of the season's blooms at the Plumas County Visitors Bureau's Bloom Blog at www.plumascounty.org.
For more information: www.shastacascade.com.
OUTBOUND ESCAPES
FISHING COLLINS LAKE
The Rooster Tails Fishing Club of Northern California Inc. will share techniques and tips for fishing for trout and bass at the privately stocked Collins Lake during a monthly meeting Friday at the Auburn Elk's Lodge, 195 Pine St., Auburn.
The meeting begins at 7:30 a.m., with a buffet breakfast from 8 to 9 a.m. ($12), followed by the presentation at 9.
For more information: (530) 887-0479.
CAMPFIRE AND SONGS
Sing around a campfire and hear American Indian stories from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday at the Maidu Museum Amphitheater, 1970 Johnson Ranch Road, Roseville.
Roasting sticks and marshmallows will be provided. The fee is $5 per person, $16 for a family of four, $5 each additional person, free for children ages 2 and younger.
For more information: (916) 774-5934.
HOOK RAFFLE ITEMS
Putah Creek Trout, the nonprofit conservation organization, will hold its wine tasting and fundraiser 1-4 p.m. Saturday at Lake Solano Nature Center (8685 Pleasant Valley Road, west of Winters). Members of Off the Hook Guide Service will conduct free fly-casting clinics and competitions for all skill levels. Equipment will be provided.
Items being auctioned off during the third annual event include rods, reels, outdoor gear and guided trips.
Cost is $20 and includes one glass of wine; $5 parking.
Registration required: RSVP@putahcreektrout.org.
TAHOE RIM TRAIL HIKES
The Vistas, Lakes and Wildflowers Hiking Series includes two moderately difficult treks.
Saturday's Spooner Summit to Vista hike, a six-miler, will begin at 10 a.m. The Spooner Summit to South Camp Peak hike on June 25 will follow the Tahoe Rim Trail for 10 miles and begins at 8 a.m.
The guided hikes are free through the Tahoe Rim Trail Association.
To register: www.tahoerimtrail.org.
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