Celebrate Thanksgiving at Sage Restaurant in McCloud, CA, on November 26, 2026. Five-course dinner $65, Little Gobblers menu $29. Dine-in and takeout. Reservations required.

The Case of the Black Veil
October 17 & 18, 2026

Some invitations are received with pleasure.

Some invitations are received with curiosity.

And then there are invitations that perhaps should never have arrived at all…

This October, the McCloud Hotel invites you to step through our doors for an afternoon of tea, secrets, curiosities—and a mystery that has waited far too long to be solved.

The Essential Details

WHAT: McCloud Hotel Afternoon Tea Mystery Series — The Case of the Black Veil
WHEN: Saturday, October 17 & Sunday, October 18, 2026
WHERE: McCloud Hotel
SEATING: 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
ADULTS: $45
CHILDREN 12 & UNDER: $35
RESERVATIONS: Required — (530) 859-8111

Your afternoon includes traditional afternoon tea, a tea tower of savories, scones and sweets, loose-leaf tea, an interactive mystery experience, clue stations, Victorian parlor conversation cards, curiosities, a Victorian-inspired photo area, and entry into our Mystery Prize Drawing.

Gluten-free and vegan options are available with advance request.

The Case of the Black Veil

Something has come to light at the McCloud Hotel.

An old letter.
A missing heirloom.
A handful of suspicious characters.
And a trail of clues left behind by a woman who apparently did not wish to be found.

We could tell you more, of course.

But where would be the fun in that?

On October 17 & 18, guests are invited to gather around our tables for a traditional afternoon tea while attempting to unravel The Case of the Black Veil.

Part afternoon tea, part Victorian parlor gathering, and part mystery adventure, this is not your ordinary afternoon at the McCloud Hotel.

First, We Shall Have Tea

Even the most dedicated detective cannot be expected to investigate on an empty stomach.

Each guest will enjoy a traditional tea tower filled with an assortment of savory bites, freshly prepared scones and sweets, accompanied by loose-leaf tea.

Tea will be served in true McCloud Hotel fashion, giving you plenty of time to pour another cup, enjoy another scone, and quietly consider whether the person sitting across from you can actually be trusted.

After all, appearances can be deceiving.

Especially in October.

Then, There Is the Matter of the Black Veil…

At some point during your tea, you may find yourself in possession of information concerning a rather peculiar affair.

Guests who choose to investigate The Case of the Black Veil will follow a trail of clues through designated areas of the McCloud Hotel, examining evidence, discovering curiosities, and attempting to determine exactly what happened.

You may encounter letters.

You may encounter secrets.

You may encounter something that was never intended for you to find.

Fortunately, no detective work is required to enjoy the afternoon. Those who would rather remain comfortably seated with their tea and observe the investigation from a safe distance are perfectly welcome to do so.

Whether that will keep you out of the affair remains to be seen.

Questions for the Curious & Morbid

Victorian parlors were made for conversation, and ours will be no exception.

Throughout the afternoon, guests will discover Victorian parlor conversation cards filled with delightfully macabre questions, curious scenarios, and impossible choices.

Some may provoke laughter.

Some may spark spirited conversation.

And some may reveal rather more about your companions than you intended to learn.

Choose your answers—and your companions—carefully.

Fortunes, Curiosities & Other Peculiar Things

There will be more to discover than the mystery itself.

Guests may encounter fortunes, curious objects, mysterious messages, and little Victorian oddities tucked throughout the afternoon.

Some may be helpful.

Some may be amusing.

Some should probably be ignored entirely.

We make no promises regarding which is which.

A Victorian-Inspired Photo Op

Naturally, an occasion such as this deserves to be remembered.

Guests will have the opportunity to step into our Victorian-inspired photo area, created especially for the occasion and filled with a touch of old-fashioned drama.

And if dressing for the occasion sounds like fun, by all means, embrace it!

Black lace, velvet, cameos, hats, gloves, vintage-inspired pieces, or simply your favorite dramatic October ensemble are all welcome.

Come dressed for the mystery—or simply come as you are. Either way, you’ll be very much at home at the McCloud Hotel.

Can You Solve the Case?

Those who successfully unravel The Case of the Black Veil will have the opportunity to submit their conclusions before the mystery is finally revealed.

Correct detectives will be entered into our Mystery Prize Drawing.

Bragging rights, naturally, are awarded immediately.

And should you fail to solve the mystery?

There is always another cup of tea.

Reservations Are Required

Advance reservations are required, and seating is limited.

To reserve your table, please call:

(530) 859-8111

Cancellations must be made at least seven days prior to the event.

We strongly recommend reserving early. Once every chair at the table has been claimed, we cannot guarantee that another invitation will mysteriously appear.

So gather your most observant companions, prepare yourself for savories, scones, sweets—and secrets.

And when you arrive at the McCloud Hotel…

Pay attention.

Someone has gone to great lengths to leave these clues behind.

The least you can do is discover why.

The McCloud Hotel awaits.

This October, the McCloud Hotel invites you to a spine-tingling yet elegant celebration of the season—our Haunted Afternoon Tea. Gather your friends, don your most enchanting attire, and step into a world where timeless tradition meets Halloween magic.

Date: Saturday, October 25
Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
Location: McCloud Hotel
Reservations: Call or Text 530-859-8111

We’re brewing up some spooktacular fun with our first Halloween-themed tea. Join us if you dare!

A Hauntingly Delicious Menu

Our Afternoon Tea experience offers a wickedly wonderful assortment of handcrafted treats, from savory finger sandwiches to decadent desserts. Served with your choice of premium Harney & Sons loose-leaf tea or a festive Blood Orange Lemonade, it’s a feast fit for mortals and spirits alike.

Finger Sandwiches:

• Turkey, Cranberry & Brie

• Black Forest Ham, Apple & Dijon

• Roasted Beets, Lavender & Chive Goat Cheese

• Cucumber with Herb Cream Cheese

• Egg Salad with Watercress

Sweets:

• Carrot Cake

• Earl Grey Brownie

• Raspberry Macaron

• Red Velvet Cake

• Lemon Ginger Bar

Scones:

• Classic Vanilla-Cream Scones with Currants

• Served with Fresh Whipped Cream & Lemon Curd

A Costume Affair

To heighten the fun, guests are encouraged to arrive in costume. From whimsical witches to dapper vampires, all are welcome! Those who embrace the spirit of the season will have a chance to win bewitching prizes.

Reserve Your Place at the Table

Spaces for this delightfully eerie tea are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot soon. Whether you’re celebrating spooky season with friends or treating yourself to an afternoon of indulgence, the McCloud Hotel promises an unforgettable experience.

Call or Text for Reservations: 530-859-8111

Join us… if you dare.

Crisp mountain air, golden leaves, and cozy nights await at the historic McCloud Hotel. Book our Fall Special and enjoy:

Standard Rooms from $189/night

Deluxe Rooms from $209/night

Complimentary hot cider breakfast each morning

Stay 2+ nights and unlock a special $180/night rate

Escape to the base of Mt. Shasta this season—romance and relaxation are in the air.


Reserve your Fall Escape today—limited availability!

Join us for Thanksgiving 2024!

May 10, 2024, McCloud, CA–Last night, the northern lights were visible in northern California due to a rare geomagnetic storm. The Space Weather Prediction Center issued a G5 storm watch indicating intense solar activity that made the Aurora Borealis visible.  

Dorothea Barlett Schoenstein, Artist – A Plein Air California Impressionist’s work is currently showing in the McCloud Hotel gallery.

As a “plein air” artist, finding a suitable outdoor location to work in can be pretty challenging. It involves carrying a portable easel, a canvas secured with a bungee cord, oil paints, and brushes to the chosen location. Dorothea Barlett Schoenstein, an artist specializing in this field, often takes on such challenges and ventures to various outdoor vistas to paint. Our area is known for its trails, which attract people to the natural beauty and challenges of the climb. However, Dorothea prefers painting by a lake, in a field, or at the McCloud Lower Falls. She is one of many artists in the country who practice plein-air California Impressionism. Painting ‘en plein air’ is more than just a representation of the surrounding view; it is a visual interpretation of a scene influenced by the varying elements of nature. “Working outdoors is an inspiring experience. Compositional variations are created by rapidly changing natural light, requiring constant rethinking of prior decisions. However, this is just one of the challenges for a ‘plein air’ artist. The wind can be blowing, the hot sun is often directly on me, and bugs are attracted to the odor of my oil paints. It is an experience!”

‘Dorothea is a painter who finds inspiration in the natural world. She is captivated by how trees stand out in a landscape, with their branches reaching up to the sky or twisting downwards. She is also awed by the beauty of sunsets, rushing rivers, and vibrant greens in the valley. Dorothea wonders how many shades of purple she can see. These elements are open to artistic interpretation and motivate her to paint nature on canvas. She strives to bring her personal experience of sitting in nature and her unique artistic interpretation to her plein-air paintings.

Edgar Payne, one of California’s greatest plein air painters, says, “In painting from nature, the artist faces the problem of judging between the influence of realism and the power of artistic ingenuity. Nature always challenges.”  No art experience equals the challenge and joy of painting from life, be it the human figure or Mother Nature. It is personal and a record of the time and place.

Dorothea Barlett Schoenstein is a highly respected artist who has been creating and exhibiting her work for over 50 years. She holds degrees in Art from Penn State University and UC Berkeley and has also pursued Doctoral graduate studies in Venice, Italy, at New York University. For 18 years, she owned the Bartlett Fine Arts Gallery in Pleasanton, CA, and has also taught Life Drawing, Basic Drawing, Color and Composition, and Art History at Chabot College, Hayward. Dorothea has earned numerous awards for her extensive exhibition of work, including one-person shows in Italy and the United States. Although initially recognized for her work with the female nude and sizeable mixed media abstracts, her recent focus has been on realism, particularly ‘plein air’ landscape oil paintings. She and her husband, Alan Schoenstein, have retired to McCloud, CA.

Her work will be on display indefinitely at the McCloud Hotel, historic downtown McCloud, CA. Many of the pieces are for sale.

Escape the winter blues and embrace the beauty of spring! There’s no better time to visit McCloud Hotel than during this season of renewal. With blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and vibrant landscapes, spring offers a refreshing change of scenery that will rejuvenate your mind and body.

Experience the thrill of exploring nearby waterfalls, whether hiking in lush green forests or discovering colorful gardens and quaint towns. Spring travel offers something for everyone, so take advantage of the great deals and discounts available now. Enjoy our 20% OFF Spring Special available Sunday through Thursday until April 28. Book Spring Special

Take advantage of the opportunity to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your dream spring vacation today and pack your bags for an adventure-filled escape. It’s time to make the most of this magical season and embark on a journey you’ll never forget. 

Join us on Saturday, March 16th, as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. We’re serving up lots of Celtic fun, games, and more! Plus, we are excited to announce that Irish Logger Fries are back by popular demand. Don’t miss out on this delicious once-a-year treat! Wear green and bring your lucky charm for a chance to win prizes.  Doors open at 4pm. 424 Main Street, McCloud, CA 96057  Book at room or suite at the McCloud Hotel and make it an overnight celebration! 

Escape to the mountains this winter and experience comfort and adventure at the McCloud Hotel. Our cozy rooms and suites offer a warm retreat after a day of skiing or snowshoeing through the stunning winter landscape. Unwind in our inviting lounge by the fireplace, or sip a hot cup of cocoa in our welcoming lobby. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to help you plan your ideal winter getaway, whether carving the local ski slopes or indulging in a pampering spa treatment. Take advantage of the magic of winter in Mount Shasta – book your stay at McCloud Hotel today and make memories that will last a lifetime!

If you need to stay connected to work while traveling, don’t worry. Our McCloud Hotel, located in the heart of Mount Shasta, offers a high-speed fiber optic internet connection that allows you to stream movies or quickly join a Zoom meeting. Additionally, we have two dining options available. The Axe & Rose Public House opens at 4 pm and serves artisan burgers, flatbreads, and many more, along with local brews and craft cocktails. On the other hand, Sage Restaurant inside the McCloud Hotel offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere where you can enjoy seasonal and organic California cuisine. The menu features many local purveyors, farms, and plant-based dishes.

If you’re running out of time for holiday shopping, don’t worry! Gift certificates make great last-minute gifts that are sure to please. You can purchase a gift certificate online and deliver it to your inbox within minutes with instant download options. 

McCloud Hotel Gift Certificates can be for an overnight stay or at our restaurants.

Not only are gift certificates a convenient last-minute option, but they also give your loved ones the flexibility to choose something they truly want or need. Plus, they can be a great way to support small businesses and local economies. 

So, if you’re feeling the holiday shopping stress, take a deep breath and consider giving the gift of choice with a last-minute gift certificate. Purchase Now

A CLEAN & SAFE ENVIRONMENT, AS ALWAYS

In preparing to welcome guests back to our hotel, we are making some changes to ensure the health and safety of our guests and staff.   McCloud Hotel remains committed to upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and have taken an extra level of sanitary precautions to qualify for the California Hotel & Lodging Association Clean + Safe Certification.  Below are some of the response measures that will help us maintain a healthy environment for everyone:

-Designated staff to focus on sanitizing, which includes routinely cleaning all frequently touched surfaces throughout the hotel and restaurants.
-Disposable wipes so that high touch surfaces (for example, doorknobs, handrails, tables) can be wiped down and disinfected by staff throughout the day.
-Hand Sanitizer at the check-in desk.
-Single-use disposable wipes for guest use will be available in-room and throughout the hotel.
-Increased cleaning of restrooms and public areas.
-Housekeepers will not enter rooms during guest stays.
-Guest rooms will remain sanitized and sealed for 24 hours prior to check-in.  
-Breakfast will be delivered in-room or provided in the dining room and lobby with tables spaced for social distancing. 
-Signage will ask guests to wear a face mask and maintain social distancing in public areas.

Next Tour is Nov 1st and 2nd. $65. per person. Reservations through McCloud Hotel or themountaintalks.com

When driving Interstate 5 through Siskiyou County, it’s impossible to ignore the incredible scenery unfolding around you. To the east, the Cascade Volcanoes, Mt Shasta (14,162’), Shastina (12,303’)and Black Butte (6,325’) dominate the skyline. Looking west, an ancient seafloor has been tilted and lifted up to form Mt Eddy (9,025’) and the Eddys Range of the Klamath Mountains.

Our investigation into the Geologic History of the area will last approximately 4 hours. We’ll be driving to 4 localities where we’ll be exploring the geologic forces responsible for the dramatic landscapes of the region.

Before leaving McCloud Hotel, a short presentation on the basics of Plate Tectonics & Volcanoes will be given to help provide some background for the geologic features we’ll be seeing.

GUIDE: DAUNE WILLAHAN
Since receiving my degrees in Geology from San Jose State, I have taught classes at numerous Bay Area colleges. In addition to teaching, I’ve spent the last 20 years organizing and leading Geology field trips to many different regions in California, including Mt Lassen, Death Valley, Big Sur, and Mammoth Lakes. From Volcanoes to Deserts and Coastlines to Mountains, the variety in California landscapes are a direct result of geologic processes over time. Bringing people face to face with the Geology and Geologic History of an area has been a passion for me and one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.

The roads are clear and the snow is perfect for a snowshoe hike out to the waterfalls or a day on the mountain downhill skiing, snowboarding or exploring the great vistas from the Nordic Centers cross country trails. Check availability now

Our Victorian Tea tea last December included horse and carriage rides during the Innkeepers Tour open house weekend in McCloud.  Our recent Valentines tea featured heart shaped macrons and chocolate flavored tea with the lobby fireplace taking the chill off the snowy afternoon.  The next Afternoon Tea at the McCloud Hotel with be Saturday. May 11 in honor of Mothers Day.  The three course menu includes a selection of savory and sweet treats, scones and choice of loose leaf tea.  Reservations 530-964-2822.

Easter at the McCloud Hotel Sage Restaurant is a celebration of food, friends and family.  Neighbors and guests are invited to gather on Sunday, April 21, 2019 from 11am – 2pm for the presentation of a sweet and savory special Easter brunch menu.  Dinner is served from 5:30 – 8pm.  Specialty wine drinks, salads, cast-iron skillet specialties, savory mains and desserts with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients will be featured. Limited seating. Reservations suggested 530=964-2822.

The McCloud Hotel opens the Axe & Rose Public House and Cascade Room Event Halll, a large indoor banquet room with a stage that can accommodate up to 180 guests. Located at the north end of the McCloud Historic District, the Axe & Rose Public House offers a unique Mt Shasta dining experience, full bar and traditional pub style menu. Once the workforce cafeteria for the old lumber mill, and later a dance hall, the Hall building provides craftsmanship and details largely preserved in its original condition from the 1930’s.

The Axe & Rose adjoins the Cascade Room Event Hall, new indoor conference and banquet space. With its 14 foot high, coffered ceiling and intricately hand-stenciled wood beams, the versatile space will wow your guests. Both venues may be combined for larger private events.

Just 5 miles from the Ski Park and Nordic Center, the Axe & Rose has a laid back and relaxed mountain atmosphere that makes it the perfect location to meet up with friends after a day on the slopes. Open 11:30am daily for lunch and dinner.

Come explore historic McCloud and McCloud River Waterfalls Trail. We are Mt Shasta’s Southern Gateway, 9 miles east of Iinterstate-5 along State Route 89 aka the Volcanic Scenic Byway. 408 Main Street, McCloud, California 96057 mccloudhotel.com

McCloud Hotel tops list of 25 Best Romantic Getaways in Northern California according to Dream Vacation Magazine.

The McCloud Hotel is a historic hotel snuggled in one of the most beautiful spots imaginable: On the green slope of majestic Mount Shasta, with the world-famous fly fishing McCloud River running by and its three waterfalls a few miles away. Built in 1916 for the workers employed by the McCloud River Lumber Company, the hotel has since been meticulously restored to provide comfortable and elegant accommodation for modern travelers exploring the spectacular nature all around. Many original features have been retained, such as the registration desk with the original mail cubbies. The beautifully landscaped gardens around the hotel are popular for social gatherings and weddings. The hotel has its own gourmet restaurant on the premises, and the wisteria-covered terrace serves as a glorious dining space on warm days.

408 Main Street, McCloud, CA 96057, 530-964-2822 25 Best Romantic Getaways in Northern California – Photo: McCloud Hotel

Need a last minute gift that still feels thoughtful? An online purchase of a McCloud Hotel and Sage Restaurant Gift Certificate can be E-mail delivered instantly. The voucher can be used for Hotel, Sage Restaurant or personalized to include a bottle of Champagne, Massage, Great Shasta Outdoor Adventure or Fly Fishing Package.

For those of you that want to shop locally, check out our lobby gift counter.  The McCloud Hotel has expanded their gift offerings to include books, cards and an exclusive line of organic essential oils from Uma and pure bath & body products from Beekman 1802 and Camille Beckman.

We’re standing by to help you with last minute gift ideas you can access quickly and easily, without breaking the bank.