Historic McCloud: Picturesque Mountain Jewel Getaway

“McCloud is just the most beautiful little ‘Hallmark’ town,” says Shari Rouiller, executive director of the McCloud Chamber of Commerce. Established in 1895 by George W. Scott and William VanArsdale, founders of the McCloud River Railroad Company and the McCloud River Lumber Company, McCloud has to this day retained much of its historic character and structures. McCloud Dance Hall Recalls the Past and Welcomes the Future

Roller skaters, dancers (square, tango and more) wedding parties and retreat participants come from near and far to enjoy the gorgeous maple floored ballroom, lovingly restored by McCloud Dance Hall caretaker Kristin Cunningham. Dance Hall photos
provided by Kristin Cunningham.

“This side of the mountain is the coolest side,” says Kristin Cunningham, owner of one of the great treasures of McCloud, the historic Dance Hall, 104 Pine St. Built in 1906 as the McCloud Opera House and Dance Hall, it has a gorgeous 5,000 square foot maple dance floor, sprung for shock absorbing while dancing. The Free Masons purchased and expanded the building in 1914, but from the 1930s to 1980 it languished until Dave and Suzanna Abbott purchased it and turned it into Dance Country. “It was the square dance capital of Northern California and it was bustling,” says Kristin. Kristin became the caretaker in 2022 with the goal of making it a welcoming, inclusive community space. Square dancing is back, along with line dancing and roller skating. “I want to keep the building a dance hall, keep it like it is and honor the history of this building,” Kristin says. “It is unique. There might be one other building in Bakersfield this size, but this is one of the largest dance halls in CA.” Kristin has worked hard to restore the beautiful maple floor and renovate other areas to make it a go-to event space, accommodating up to 500 on the dance floor or 300 seated with room for dancing – perfect for large weddings, retreats, fundraisers, dances (Square, Salsa, Tango, etc.) and yoga groups. Lodging upstairs in two spacious boho-style rooms is included with retreat fees. Further accommodations can be booked at comfy B&Bs and hotels within walking distance of the dance hall. “Bringing people together makes me happy,” says Kristin. “People come together to feel good and to feel the positive energy of the space and the century of people laughing and dancing. No matter what religion you are, no matter your political beliefs, when you’re dancing or skating on the dance floor, your mind is present when the body is moving, and to me that’s a high form of meditation and healing.” Kristin relies on community support to help with renovations. “The 2022 major snow caused extensive damage to the roof,” she says. “The roof must be replaced this year.” To find out the next skating dates and times, learn about upcoming community events at the hall, book your large retreat, wedding or dance workshop, or donate to the roof replacement fund and help restore this true California treasure, go to mcclouddancehall.com.

Experience History, Luxury and Delicious Fare at McCloud River Bed & Breakfast

Originally the headquarters for the McCloud River Lumber Company and home to the town bank and the local telephone switchboard, the lovingly renovated and beautifully appointed McCloud River Bed & Breakfast on 325 Lawndale Court welcomes visitors to step back in history. Owners Julie and Dan Ponzini came to McCloud to retire in 2019. “But I really wasn’t ready to retire,” says Julie. She had owned a successful cake business and both she and Dan have a background in construction. With these experiences and skills, they decided to purchase the 10,000 sq ft historically registered McCloud River Inn built in 1903 and rechristened it the McCloud River Bed & Breakfast. Julie makes scrumptious baked goods for B&B guests staying in the five beautifully appointed suites, each room with its own history. Dan continues to make historically sensitive renovations and improvements to the building, including upgrading the kitchen to accommodate plans to open a full-service restaurant later this year. Locals and visitors alike flock to the B&B for the McCloud River Mountain Music series of concerts held throughout the summer, as much for the delicious dinners prepared by Julie and served 4:30-6:30pm as for the foot-tapping music from 7-9pm. Dan treats guests, upon request, to a personal tour of the historic building, sprinkled with fascinating historical facts and anecdotes about the McCloud River Lumber Company and colorful McCloud history. To book a relaxing stay in this mountain gem or to learn more about its history, go to mccloudriverbnb.com.

The Giddy, Upscale Historic Event Space

Originally the cafeteria for the lumber mill, repurposed as an Italian restaurant and then a pub/bar, the historic building on the corner of Main and W. Columbero has now been beautifully refurbished to become a modern event space for parties up to 200. An upstairs lounge space perfect for a groomsmen hangout or children’s play area during events and a full kitchen and bar make for easy entertaining. A modern guest suite and two more luxury guest suites soon to be available provide party hosts and their close friends with comfortable accommodations. A beautiful, welcoming garden with overhanging arbor provides a lovely space for an intimate romantic wedding ceremony. “We are here to support the McCloud community,” says The Giddy manager and longtime McCloud resident, Linn Tyhurst. “We always recommend local businesses (florists, caterers, etc.) to our event clients.” The Giddy will host a very special fundraiser May 22 for Major’s Place, a unique equine therapy and learning program in McCloud. A FREE family friendly and sensory friendly session with a silent disco, face painting, snacks and fun for all ages runs from 3:30 – 5:30pm and the Major Jam for 21+ is 7-11pm. Go to mcclouddisco.com for more info and tickets. To book your next intimate party or special celebration at The Giddy, go to thegiddymccloud.com.

The McCloud Hotel:

McCloud Hotel is a family-run operation spanning three generations of the Rossman family

Relaxed Comfort and Gourmet Dining “Summer in McCloud is about slowing down and reconnecting – whether that’s exploring Mount Shasta, wandering through our historic town or simply gathering together at the end of the day,” says Cindy Rossman, proprietor of the McCloud Hotel, 408 Main Street. “At the McCloud Hotel, we love welcoming families with thoughtful touches like our family king room with bunk beds, breakfast included each morning, and evenings around the fire pits making s’mores. It’s the kind of place where simple moments become lasting memories.” The McCloud Hotel, built in 1916 and registered on the National Register of Historic Places, is situated in the heart of the historic McCloud district and seamlessly blends modern amenities with historic charm. In-house restaurant, The Sage, offers unparalleled meals prepared with the freshest, most seasonal ingredients, including a delectable selection of nutritious grains, fresh vegetables and sustainably raised meats and seafood. They also offer a fly-fishing package and indoor and outdoor event venues. Go to mccloudhotel.com to book your stay.

Town Festivals, Scenic Waterfalls and More

“People know about our falls,” says Shari, “but we also have Pumice Mountain and Glass Mountain nearby, beautiful hiking trails and excellent campgrounds for both tents and RVs.” Avid fishers come from far and wide to enjoy some of the best fly fishing in California on the McCloud River. Visitors can thread their way over scenic hiking and biking trails following helpful maps available at the McCloud Chamber of Commerce (located in the former Italian Bank office in the McCloud Bed & Breakfast). The old-fashioned candy store in the historic McCloud Mercantile building offering unique and tempting goodies is not only stocked with a mouthwatering variety of scrumptious sweet treats but boasts custom woodwork by famous local artist Steve Richardson. Steve also created custom signage for the chamber and local businesses that imbue the town with a special charm and grace. The entire town is fully lit in the summer evenings, with picnic tables on Main Street to enjoy a late snack in the warm mountain air. Hoo Hoo Park on Columbero features gazebos and BBQ pits with a full view of Mt. Shasta and dogs are welcome on a leash. Visitors can find victuals to fit every taste at local eateries like Sojourn Coffee Shop, Butcher Block Grill, Sage inside the McCloud Hotel, Floyds Frosties, Siskiyou Brew Works and Tracy’s White Mountain Café.
The best thing about McCloud? Many say it’s the people! “Everyone in town waves to passersby,” says Julie. “I love the people,” Kristin says. “There’s a sense of cohesiveness in the community.” Shari tearfully testifies about the sense of community she has experienced in McCloud and how she was welcomed to the town with open arms. “People here are kind and welcoming and helpful and community oriented.” Linn has found that “a lot of people come to McCloud to get out of the city and relax, with its outdoor recreation with small-town charm.” Dan adds, “Everyone who stays here sleeps well because it’s so quiet and peaceful.”

*********************************

McCloud is filled with exciting, not-to-be-missed festivals throughout the year. Mushroom Festival May 22 & 23 Featuring over 200 vendors, delicious food and live music. Local mushroom-hunting experts will be giving tips and leading foraging hikes. 54th Annual Flea Market & Neighborhood Yard Sale, June 7 The largest in Siskiyou County, it features over 100 booths of collectibles, arts, crafts, antiques, tools, clothing, jewelry, furniture and much more! Enjoy a variety of mouthwatering options from the food trucks and a cold brew at the beer booth. 79th Annual Lumberjack Fiesta, July 24-26 A fun-filled weekend for the whole family. Three days of competitions and a variety of events such as horseshoes, logging, watermelon eating and dancing. Music, vendors, a softball tournament, food, ice-cold beer and much more fun in the sun. McCloud River Inn Show & Shine, Aug. 15 Don’t miss the Motor Mountain Car Show. Enjoy music, refreshing beverages, tasty food and of course cars! Apple Harvest Festival, Oct. 10 Live music, yummy food, refreshing beverages, family fun, apple dessert contest, homemade apple pies for sale and much more. Santa Comes to Town, Dec. 4-5 Christmas Festivities, Dec. 11-12 & 8-19 McCloud transforms into a heartwarming Victorian holiday wonderland each December. Over select weekends throughout the month, the streets and storefronts of downtown McCloud become twinkling backdrops for festive traditions and family-friendly fun. Expect charming carriage rides, festive entertainment and holiday crafts the whole family will enjoy.

*****************************

Stacey loves vintage buildings and has owned and renovated a 1927 Craftsman and currently owns a large 1913 Edwardian home.