Most people drive through Siskiyou County on the way to somewhere else. Stop for two or three nights and it becomes the trip.
The route in
From Medford or Ashland, Oregon, take Interstate 5 south over the Siskiyou Pass to Yreka, then Highway 3 to Etna. From the Medford airport it is about 83 miles, roughly an hour and a half without stops. In winter, check conditions over the pass.
Etna is about 26 miles of Highway 3 from Yreka, and locals prefer back roads such as Eastside Road between Etna and Fort Jones.
Where to stop
Ashland: about an hour and a quarter away.
Yreka: Gold Rush downtown, Greenhorn Park and the farmers market.
Fort Jones: Five Marys Burgerhouse, about 15 minutes from Etna.
Mount Shasta: take Gazelle-Callahan Road over to Mount Shasta and come back through Yreka. It is a little longer, with Lovers Leap and a stretch with no cell service. In town, try Alua’s Thrive Bar, Northbound Coffee Roasters and Pipeline Craft Taps and Kitchen.
Use Etna as the base
A private three-bedroom house for up to six guests, with EV charging, parking for at least 10 vehicles including camper trailers, and a wide turnaround for large vehicles. Off-road vehicles and quads are welcome to come along.
The Journal has itineraries: Five days in Scott Valley, with a day at Mount Shasta and Six days in Scott Valley, with a day in Yreka.
See open dates and prices in the booking box on the home page.