Mt. Shasta is the second highest volcano in the Cascade Range and in the lower 48 United States. The mountain sustains 5 prominent glaciers and many almost year-round snowfields. Mount Shasta dominates the skyline of southern Oregon and northern California for hundreds of miles in every direction and is highly visible along the Interstate 5 corridor. Mt. Shasta is in fact the most massive stratovolcano in the Cascade chain, rising over 10,000 ft (3000 m) from the surrounding lowlands. The communities of Mount Shasta City, Weed, McCloud and Lake Shastina surround the volcano.

At 14,162 ft, Mt. Shasta has easy non-technical routes that are climbed by thousands of people each year. However, the rapid weather changes due to its alpine environment can create a hazard for even the most experienced mountaineer. Sports enthusiasts need to be well prepared and well informed.