The Breakfast was followed up with a trip to Shasta Lake Caverns just north of Redding, CA. The adventure began with a boat ride across the lake to the piece of land where the cave is located. The guide asked Joel if he would like to drive the boat across the lake. Of course he gladly accepted and jumped right on it.
Once we reached the other side of the lake there was a bus waiting for us, which would take us up 850 feet to the entrance of the cave. The view was stunning of the lake and surrounding mountains. God's creation is beyond our imagination!
The black bears in this area of California are much bigger than the NY bears, as you can see from the photo of Joel and the bear.
The cave was astonishing. The photos do not even begin to do it justice. You must come experience it sometime.
When we exited the cave, we walked down 251 steps that wound around the mountain. The guide told us that Rattle Snakes are just now beginning to come out of their dens at this time of year. He then led the way down the trail with a watchful eye for bears and rattlers. He also pointed out the oily Poison Oak along the trail. He said that when it is oily like this it will "mess you up".
Eventually we made it back to the bus and then to the boat. Once again Joel was asked to drive the boat. The guide told Joel if he would like a fun summer-time job when he turns 16, he could get a job driving the boat. Joel's face lite up at the thought of such a proposition.
When we made it back to the van Joel couldn't wait to tell Mama all about the adventure (especially about driving the boat). What a wonderful "kick-off" to the gigantic birthday celebration.
Our next stop was a very special surprise for Joel -- more about that in part II.
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