More information on the community, lodging, and the mountain can be found at Shasta Home Community Guide. The Everitt Memorial Highway, a county maintained road, starts in the city and follows up the southwestern slope of the Mountain to the Bunny Flat trailhead. The trailhead at 6,860 feet, is the beginning of the summit trail that follows along the Avalanche Gulch route and many others. Most people climb from May through October. The snow conditions are close to perfect and the weather is more stable during these months.
Ski poles can really be an asset during the time when loose volcanic soil exists.
You need to be aware of small avalanches, rockfalls, and chunks of ice that may come down from the ridge tops. Rocks take the path of the least resistance, which is usually right in the path where you're climbing. Rockfall can occur at any time of the year. Winter ascents are possible and are done quite often by the experienced climber who is aware of unstable weather and avalanche danger. This route is one of the most popular and climbed routes in the United States and is also called the main route.