Heart Lake, Shasta-Trinity National Forest Backpacking Guide

Heart Lake is the perfect overnight backpacking trip for beginners or those looking for a short but rewarding trip into California’s backcountry. The route offers incredible alpine terrain and panoramic views without having to commit to big mileage or a long trip. The lake sits high up in the rocky cliffs that tower over Castle Lake, a popular swimming and water sport destination in the summer months. Heart Lake itself is more of a big pond - it is not the lake but the surrounding views that draw backpackers to this area. The views of Castle Lake, Black Butte and a snow-capped Mount Shasta are magnificent and during twilight you can even catch a mirror reflection of Shasta in the still waters of Heart Lake. The trip is 2.8 miles roundtrip with 675 ft of climbing. This short distance allows for the trip to be rated as easy but it is a steady climb up to the lake which will feel challenging with a heavy pack. This is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Shasta region and our favorite viewpoint of Mount Shasta.