By Teresa Ambord

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s not too far, includes a scenic drive and offers peace and quiet or the choice of activities, consider visiting the Fall River Valley in eastern Shasta County. While you’re there, stay awhile and enjoy some great food, a comfortable room, and a step back into history, at the Fall River Hotel.

Proprietors Scott and Sandy Jensen have been making the hotel a nice place to be for 22 years, but the hotel itself has crowned the west end of Fall River Mills since 1935. Back then, it was built to serve the bustling community after the Fitzwater Hotel — across the road — burned down.

Upstairs, the hotel has 10 rooms, with cushy beds and decorated with charm. Most nights, the rooms are remarkably quiet, thanks to the solid construction of an FallRiverAmbord_Hotel roomearlier time. Of course, when big events come to town, like the Intermountain Fair on Labor Day weekend, everything is abuzz.

For guests who prefer larger rooms or who can’t maneuver the stairs in the original hotel, there’s also a modern addition of five ground-level rooms.

Just Passing Through

Even if you’re just in Fall River for a day, you’ll find something of interest downstairs in the hotel.  On the far right side, there’s a small, popular tavern where you can get a cold drink and friendly conversation. On the far left side, downstairs, is the diner. Burger lovers should not miss the BAT Burger, made with a delicious combination of bacon, avocado, and teriyaki sauce. The garlic fries are another favorite, but if you order them, be hungry because the portion is generous.

The center section of the downstairs hotel is a larger dining room. It’s a warm, welcoming place for a party or a meeting, or just a nice dinner out. If you’re there on a Saturday evening you can enjoy soft piano music, provided by Ron Mason, a talented local musician who plays for the love of playing.FallRiverAmbord_hotel dining room

What’s There to Do?

The Fall River Hotel, with its comfort, history, and good food is a destination on its own. But, Sandy Jensen says, the area offers an abundance of activities, including a well-groomed golf course, nearby boating, fishing, and canoeing, as well as hiking and hunting. There’s also the Fort Crook Museum and an art gallery featuring the work of local artists.

On weekend evenings, you can walk across the road to the Fall River Theater. Built in 1917, this theater has only one screen, but the movies are current and the seating is modern. Jensen says that many hotel guests plan a trip to the area when they can enjoy a good meal downstairs, a movie, and, if they’re so inclined, finish the evening in the hotel tavern, all without getting in the car.

Put It on Your Must-See List

Step inside the hotel, and you can’t help but feel the history, which has been well-preserved by its caring owners. Whether you’re looking for a getaway that is peaceful or activity-filled, everything you need is right there… at the Fall River Hotel.