Mountain Lion Sightings Raise Caution on Redding’s Sacramento River Trail

The City of Redding is urging caution after recent reports of mountain lion sightings along the popular Sacramento River Trail. While not all reports have been verified, a City of Redding Parks employee did confirm one sighting in the area.

Mountain lions are native to Northern California and occasionally roam through foothills, forests, and open spaces near towns and cities. The sightings serve as a reminder that when you’re enjoying the great outdoors—even close to home—it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Hikers, bikers, and joggers using the River Trail are encouraged to travel in groups when possible, keep pets leashed, and avoid dusk or dawn hours when wildlife tends to be more active.

If you see a mountain lion, don’t run. Make yourself appear larger, back away slowly, and report any sightings to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife through their online system at apps.wildlife.ca.gov/wir.

In case of an emergency or public safety concern, contact Redding Police or the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office immediately by calling 911. For non-emergencies, the Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (530) 245-6540.

As always, enjoy the trails—but keep your eyes open. It’s wild out there.