Why California's Mount Shasta Is Such A Spiritual Mountain Known As The World's 'Root Chakra'

Mount Shasta, a towering volcanic peak in Northern California, is well known as a spiritual epicenter and is often referred to as the "root chakra of the world." Rising 14,162 feet, it stands as the second tallest peak in the Cascade Mountain Range, dominating the landscape of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the largest national forest in the state. It's the perfect stop after exploring California's beachfront amusement parks, or road tripping to California's ghost towns. Beyond its dramatic vistas and outdoor recreation opportunities, of which there are many, Mount Shasta holds a deeper allure as a place of healing transformation, mystical energy, and energy vortexes (like this one in Arizona).

Chakras, an ancient concept rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions, are energy centers within the body that influence physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. These centers align along the spine, from the base to the crown of the head, with the root chakra — Muladhara — located at the base of the spine. The root chakra governs stability, grounding, and a sense of security. It is said to connect individuals with the Earth element, forming a foundation for all other chakras. Spiritual seekers have long identified certain global locations, often called sacred sites, as energy hubs, or "world chakras," with Mount Shasta famously representing the root chakra. Its towering, immovable form embodies the grounding qualities attributed to this energy center. Among the world chakras are the sacred sites of Lake Titicaca, Uluru, Stonehenge, the Great Pyramid of Giza, and Mount Kailash.

Mount Shasta's reputation as a spiritual destination stems from a rich tapestry of myths and legends. Indigenous tribes, including the Wintu, Achomawi, and Modoc peoples, hold the mountain as a sacred center of the universe. The Wintu people believe life began on Mount Shasta at a sacred spring, and every August, they perform ceremonies here, thus underscoring its continued spiritual significance in their cultures. 

The mountains mystique extends beyond indigenous belief. In the 1930s, Guy Ballard, a hiker, claimed to have encountered an "ascended master" on Mount Shasta, sparking the "I AM Activity," a spiritual movement based on teachings of divine ascension and cosmic journeys. Though the movement's prominence has faded, its influence lingers among spiritual seekers who view the mountain as a portal to higher dimensions.

Shasta is also associated with the legends of Telos, a mythical crystal city said to lie within the mountain, occupied by Lemurians — beings from the lost continent of Lemuria. This tale, along with claims of extraterrestrial activity, fuels the mountain's allure. Lenticular clouds, stationary, lens-shaped clouds (or flying-saucer shaped), which often cover the summit of Mount Shasta, are speculated by some to mask UFO activity or provide cover for Lemurian spacecraft. While these stories remain in the realm of myth, they contribute to the mountains reputation as a place of wonder and mystery, drawing individuals seeking connection with energies beyond the ordinary.

Today, Mount Shasta continues to draw thousands of visitors annually, not only for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, but for its spiritual significance. The mountain has become a hub for retreats, vision quests, and guided tours designed to help individuals connect with its reputed energy. Organizations such as Shasta Vortex Adventures offer programs that include meditation, visits to sacred springs and sites on the mountain, and explorations of energy vortexes, promising transformative experiences. Testimonials from visitors often describe life-changing revelations and a renewed sense of purpose after engaging with the healing offerings and the mountain's energy.

Visitors can find a thriving spiritual community in the town of Mount Shasta, anchored by an array of metaphysical shops and centers. These establishments, like Soul Connections and Shasta Rainbow Angels, offer everything from crystals, tarot cards, and sacred books to workshops on energy healing and spiritual growth. They serve as a gateway to meeting like-minded seekers and participating in spiritual events. Beyond the products, many shop owners and local practitioners act as guides, sharing knowledge about Mount Shasta's energy vortexes and the sacred traditions tied to the area. This vibrant network of businesses fosters a sense of belonging while enriching the towns identity as a global hub for spiritual exploration.

In addition to the spiritual movement, Mount Shasta plays an essential role in the local economy. The surrounding area thrives on tourism, with businesses catering to both outdoor adventure seekers and spiritual seekers. It might not be on the list of the 100 most popular tourist destinations in America, outdoor recreation is popular in the region, alongside retreats focused on spirituality. This unique blend of nature and spiritual tourism has cemented Mount Shasta as a multifaceted destination for grounding and centering through time in nature.