Wildways: Adventures with Purpose

Get outside and experience Wildways — a one-of-a-kind series of adventures that connect people to the wild beauty of far northern California. From scenic hikes and mellow bike rides to kayaking trips and other unforgettable outings, each event offers exclusive access to hidden landscapes and newly protected local treasures.

Hosted by amazing volunteers, Wildways is all about having fun, exploring incredible places, and supporting Shasta Land Trust’s mission to protect the lands and waters we all love.

So grab your friends, pack your sense of adventure, and join us for an experience that gives back to the land — one trail, paddle, and picnic at a time!

2026 Events

  • April 7th: Wildflower Walk & Picnic Along The Sacramento River

    Spend a beautiful spring day with Jay & Terri Thesken and Judy & Dave Bush at the Sacramento River Bend Recreation Area near Red Bluff. We’ll start with a leisurely wildflower walk at Perry Riffle, led by Jay & Terri, about 1.5 miles and an hour and a half of fresh air, flowers, and scenic views. Afterward, we’ll head to Bass Pond at the southern end of the park for a delicious gourmet picnic lunch prepared by Judy & Dave Bush. Early April is the perfect time to see the terraces of the Sacramento River come alive with colorful wildflowers - an experience you won’t want to miss!

    Lunch and beverages will be provided.

  • April 9th: A Walk Through The Plains

    Description goes hereJoin us for a vibrant spring afternoon exploring the breathtaking vernal pools and wildflower blooms of the Millville Plains. This guided educational tour offers a unique opportunity to experience one of California’s most remarkable seasonal landscapes while learning about the delicate ecosystems that make it so special.

    Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

    Guests are encouraged to bring a lunch and a lawn chair to enjoy a relaxed picnic before the guided tour. During this time, we’ll offer an engaging talk highlighting the unique vernal pools, wildflowers, and native species of the Millville Plains.

  • April 24th: From Sunshine to Shawl - Fiber Farming in Shasta County

    Step into spring on a working sheep ranch for a day filled with fresh air, new growth, and hands-on discovery.

    See firsthand how fluffy winter fleeces are transformed into beautiful, usable fiber. Follow the wool’s educational journey through what happens during sheering, spinning the precious wool, and the many uses that come from it! Roll up your sleeves at try-it-yourself stations to explore these traditional crafts yourself.

    You’ll also get the chance to enjoy the fresh spring air and take a guided nature walk that will wind through the property and highlight native plants as they emerge, bloom, and support the surrounding ecosystem. With lambs in the pasture, wildflowers in the fields, and creativity in the air, this springtime farm experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature, agriculture, and creativity.

  • May 9th : Roots & Rhythm Festival – Giving Back to The Land

    Mark your calendars for the Shasta Land Trust’s Roots & Rhythm Festival! This festival is going to be one to remember, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Shasta Land Trust’s office along the Sacramento River.

    This fundraising event features live music from two incredible bands, a lineup of local food trucks, while local craft beer and wine will be available for purchase all evening.

    Guests will be able to purchase tickets for the 2026 Wildways event season, ensuring they don’t miss out on this year’s most sought-after experiences!

    This festival is a chance to celebrate and support the mission of Shasta Land Trust in protecting the working agricultural lands, waterways, wildlife habitat, recreational areas, cultural sites, and scenic beauty that makes this region special.

    With great music, amazing food, local drinks, and exciting prizes, the Roots & Rhythm Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience. Gather your friends and family, and get ready for a day of music, food, drinks, and stunning views!

  • May 16th: Pollinator Party with Jackie Park Burris Queens

    Step into the fascinating world of honeybees at this unforgettable event! Join Jackie Park Burris, our resident “Queen,” as she shares her passion and expertise on all things bees. Get up close and personal with these incredible pollinators, learn how they make their golden honey, and discover their vital role in our environment and local ecosystems. Jackie will guide you through the wonders of bee life, sharing stories, insights, and tips for supporting pollinators in your own backyard. Each guest will leave with a sweet reminder of the day - a small goodie bag of locally made honey. Buzz on over for an experience that’s both fun and educational!

    Lunch will be provided. Please do not attend if you have a bee allergy.

  • August 13th: Starlight Social

    Experience a magical summer night under the stars at the Shasta Land Trust’s newly protected property, Gore Ranch. Far from city lights, this beautiful location will offer incredible views of the Perseid meteor shower at its peak. Kick off the evening with mouthwatering appetizers & desserts and a selection of local beer and wine. Then, sit back and gaze at the dazzling night sky through powerful telescopes as expert guides from the Shasta Astronomy Club take you on a journey through the cosmos. Don't miss this unforgettable stargazing adventure!

  • September 5th: River Rhythms - Sunset Symphony

    Join us for an unforgettable evening where classical music meets nature. The Northstate Jazz Orchestra will be accompanying the setting sun in an open-air concert at the Daniell Beaver Banks Preserve, along the banks of the Sacramento River.

    Relax under the open sky and enjoy the magical harmony of live music and flowing water. This curated performance is designed to celebrate community, creativity, and the natural beauty that defines our home.

  • September 25th: Outdoor Movie Night: Hoppers

    As autumn approaches, enjoy the warm glow of string lights, warm end-of-summer breezes, and the joy of movie night togetherness. Bundle up, get cozy and join us for a charming outdoor screening of Hoppers. This family-friendly Pixar film is about a young animal lover, Mabel, who uses a new technology to “hop” her consciousness into a robotic beaver! While experiencing the animal world first-hand, she uncovers many mysteries and ultimately unites her new animal friends to save their home from a real-estate developer. Full of humor, hijinks, and an emphasis on human-animal connection, this movie will be hit with movie and animal lovers alike. 

    Savor freshly popped popcorn, candy, and delicious bites from local food trucks, paired with seasonal craft beer and wine.

    Doors open at 6:30 PM, screening from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

  • October 10th: Lands & Legacy - A Benefit Dinner for Conservation

    Join us for a memorable autumn evening at the beautiful Daniell Beaver Banks Preserve along the Sacramento River. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious catered dinner, live music, and a glass of wine right alongside the beautiful Sacramento River.

    Throughout the evening, you’ll hear inspiring stories about our conservation work and see firsthand how your support protects the natural spaces that define our community; from vital wildlife habitat and working agricultural lands to scenic open spaces and treasured recreational areas.

    This year, we’re excited to announce that guests will have the chance to participate in a special silent auction, featuring unique experiences, thoughtfully curated baskets, and local favorites.

    Celebrate the beauty of Shasta County, the strength of our community, and the lasting legacy we’re building together. We hope you’ll join us for an unforgettable night in support of conservation.

  • November 13th: Brushes & Bubbly

    An evening of creativity, laughter, and good eats awaits at the final event of the Wildways season! Join us for a relaxed and welcoming paint night where you can unwind, connect with friends, and create something beautiful together.

    Whether you paint often or are just picking up a brush for the first time, artists of all experience levels are welcome! Local artist Elizabeth McClellan will guide you step by step through creating your very own landscape masterpiece.

    As you paint, sip and snack on local wine and delicious charcuterie. All painting supplies are provided - just bring your creativity and a willingness to have a great time!

Wildways Sponsors

The generous businesses, partners, and individuals listed below have supported the Wildways program, which allows Shasta Land Trust to present these exciting events that benefit local land conversation.