The Place to Chase WATERFALLS
Explore Waterfalls in UpStateCA
With over 50 falls in the region, UpStateCA is the perfect place to chase waterfalls! There’s something for everyone here, from 640-foot stunners, rigorous waterfall hikes with spectacular payoffs, to easily accessible falls the whole family can jump out of the car and enjoy.
Ask the locals what their favorite waterfall in UpStateCA is, and they’re all likely to give you a different answer - there’s so much to enjoy that it’s hard to choose a singular stand out! Here you’ll find a waterfall for everyone, all without crowds so you can enjoy their natural tranquility.
UpStateCA is famous for its public lands - National Parks, State Parks, and National Forests dominate the landscape. Creeks, lakes, and rivers run throughout this natural wonderland, culminating in a wide variety of stunning waterfalls for the public to enjoy.
Not sure where to begin? Redding in Shasta County offers a perfect base to start your waterfall adventure. With its central location at the heart of UpStateCA, it’s the perfect hub for your trips throughout the region! Redding is also minutes away from Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, whose three waterfalls are both local and visitor favorites.
Whether you spend a day or an entire weekend exploring the waterfalls of UpState CA, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, take along a light jacket, don’t forget your camera, and always remember to tread lightly!
The UpStateCA Waterfall Guide is for reference only. It is not an official or comprehensive resource.
Not a proper trip without Fido? No problem! Keep an eye out for the paw print to find places you can take your dog (on a leash).
Crystal Creek Falls
Whiskeytown Falls
Waterfalls of Shasta County
Shasta County is an excellent home base for waterfall chasers - you can find a number of falls within easy driving distance from Redding, its largest city. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area alone is home to three spectacular waterfalls, all of which are local favorites. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Castle Crags State Park also host waterfalls in Shasta County, just waiting for an enterprising visitor to go explore!
BOULDER CREEK FALLS
At over 138 feet tall, Boulder Creek Falls was thought to be the tallest waterfall in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area until the re-discovery of Whiskeytown Falls in 2004. With three cascades down a canyon covered in moss and ferns, you’ll feel like you’re in a dream!
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Boulder-Creek-Falls
WHISKEYTOWN FALLS POTEM FALLS
This magnificent waterfall is the tallest in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area at a towering 220 feet. It was rediscovered in 2004 after being kept secret since 1967. The falls can be reached via a strenuous 1.7-mile hike on the James K. Carr Trail to Whiskeytown Falls. This usually misty trail offers a change in climate which invites unique plants and animals.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Whiskeytown-Falls
CRYSTAL CREEK FALLS
The hike to the falls is very easy and the trail is mostly flat the whole way. This is a great hike for anyone looking for a less strenuous way to enjoy the great outdoors. This is the only man-made waterfall in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. It was created from a diversion of Trinity River to Whiskeytown Lake.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Crystal-Creek-Falls
Potem Falls runs into the Pit River which flows into Shasta Lake and is accessible by trail. This waterfall lies in a deep canyon and reaches 45 feet from its base. Enjoy swimming in the pool at the base during the summer months, and don’t forget to check out the rope swing!
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Potem-Falls
KINGS CREEK FALLS ROOT CREEK FALLS
Lassen Volcanic National Park’s Kings Creek Falls is a great place for a photo opportunity, as it is visually diverse with a stunning fountain look. All of its 46 feet cascade in different directions due to the protruding rocks behind the falls. This waterfall is most visually stimulating during summer months when volume is less, allowing for a terraced appearance. This waterfall is moderately accessible. The trail crosses through Kings Creek Meadow and forests before dropping steeply down to the cascades and falls.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Kings-Creek-Falls
Root Creek Falls is a highlight of Castle Crags State Park, spilling 500+ feet over the granite Castle Dome. Access the falls off of Root Creek Trail.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Root-Creek-Falls
Waterfalls of
Siskiyou County
Siskiyou’s unexpected abundance of waterfalls immediately capture the imagination. The waterfalls here run the gamut - from falls that plunge into swimming holes, to cascades with paths that let you walk behind the falls, each waterfall in Siskiyou County is memorably unique. Access is easy too - the McCloud Falls Loop Trail takes you on a scenic hike passing three different waterfalls, and Hedge Creek Falls is right off I-5!
FAERY FALLS LOWER MCCLOUD FALLS UPPER
Faery Falls cascades 41 feet down a rock face with a small pool and rocky creek at its base. This waterfall is most interesting to visit at its peak volume in spring with a great mist and swift stream. This waterfall is easily accessible.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Faery-Falls
This is the lowest of three levels of the McCloud River Falls, with a 12-foot broad plunge into a large pool. Surrounding the pool are large rocks perfect for sunbathing, making this location popular for swimming and relaxing. This waterfall is easily accessible by trail and road and two other waterfalls are an easy hike further up the trail.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Lower-McCloud-Falls
While not as scenic as the middle waterfall, this upper waterfall exceeds it in height. The swift river escapes a narrow gorge to crash down small steps to a beautiful pool at its base, where aquamarine water will catch your attention. The waterfall is easily accessed by trail and road.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Upper-McCloud-Falls
HEDGE CREEK FALLS
Hedge Creek Falls is located in Dunsmuir. There is a small cave located behind the waterfall, allowing visitors to walk behind the cascading water. Shortly after the waterfall, Hedge Creek flows into the Sacramento River. There is a viewing platform over the river, with a view of Mount Shasta. Access to the waterfall and viewing platform is via a short hiking trail, starting at a small park off the Dunsmuir Ave exit on Interstate 5. The close proximity to I-5 makes the falls a very popular stop for passing motorists.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Hedge-Creek-Falls
MIDDLE MCCLOUD FALLS SHACKELFORD FALLS
This is the middle of three levels of the McCloud River Falls and is the largest and most impressive with a 44-foot drop providing a magnificent view. This waterfall is one of the widest in California at 120 feet, creating a veil of whitewater during spring and reducing to become two separate but uniform cascades in later seasons. You may enjoy rock jumping and swimming here. This waterfall is easily accessible by trail and road.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Middle-McCloud-Falls
Shackleford Falls is a very easy going waterfall that travels down a sloping hill with pools throughout. The trail crosses three parts of the creek, so plan to get wet or go before the rainy season. This waterfall is easily accessible by a short, but somewhat steep trail.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Shackelford-Falls
Photo Credit: Michele James Photography
Waterfalls of Butte & Plumas
Neighboring Butte and Plumas Counties offer some of the most spectacular waterfalls in UpStateCA! The Plumas National Forest spans both counties, and is home to a multitude of waterfalls, including Feather Falls - a 640foot stunner comparable to the waterfalls of Yosemite (but without any of the crowds!) The North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is also a great place for waterfall chasers, and is home to both Beatson and Phantom Falls.
BEATSON FALLS PHANTOM FALLS FRAZIER FALLS
In the unique terrain of Table Mountain, you will find Beaston Falls in a narrow canyon in Beaston Hollow. The best time to enjoy this waterfall is from December through April.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/Beatson-Falls
Phantom Falls is located on North Table Mountain in Oroville and is best viewed in the winter months. Phantom Falls is well named for two good reasons. First, it is on a small drainage, and will be dry in the summer months. Second, it is extremely well hidden. A hike to the falls is also especially beautiful in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Phantom-Falls
FEATHER FALLS
Feather Falls National Recreation Trail offers incredible views of 640-foot Feather Falls. There are two options to reach the falls overlook. At a third mile past the trailhead, the trail diverges. For the more experienced hiker, take the steep 3.3-mile path to the west. The gently sloping 4.5-mile path to the east is ideal for the inexperienced hiker. Allow a minimum of four to five hours to hike the nine-mile loop. Take plenty of water. Restrooms and non-potable water are available at the trailhead near the parking area.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Feather-Falls
FERN FALLS
The falls are accessible from the Fern Falls Overlook Trail. The trailhead is located on Gold Lake Road about 6 miles from Highway 89. The trail is short but rocky, with big granite steps and gorgeous views. Look for penstemons, mountain lilac, and mariposa lilies growing in rocky soils. Please note that the trail can be hard to follow at times, but if you generally follow the creek, you will find the falls!
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/Fern-Falls
Located in the pristine Alpine wilderness of the Lakes Basin recreation area, this trail to the falls is a great picnic site with restrooms. An easy half-mile hike is required. The falls are approximately 250 feet.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Fraizer-Falls
INDIAN FALLS
Indian Falls is a 1.4 mile out and back trail located near Indian Falls, California that features a small beach, rock walls, and waterfall. The trail is a steep, but short hike and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Indian-Falls
Feather Falls
Photo Credit:
Photo Credit: Hailey Cowden
Photo Credit: Brandi Howard
Canyon Creek Falls Trail
Credit: Lucas Riley
Waterfalls of Tehama & Trinity
The rugged and untouched landscapes of Tehama and Trinity County offer rich rewards for waterfall enthusiasts!
The Lassen National Forest in Tehama County is home to Deadhorse and Deer Creek Falls, or you can head into Lassen Volcanic National Park to see Mill Creek Falls, a 75-foot stunner! In Trinity County, you’ll find stunning waterfalls throughout the Trinity Alps, such as the many alongside Canyon Creek.
DEADHORSE FALLS
Deadhorse Falls is a hidden jewel in Lassen National Forest. This beautiful waterfall drops 60 feet on small Deadhorse Creek, into a deep and pretty little gorge.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Deadhorse-Falls
MILL CREEK FALLS
Mill Creek Falls is the highest waterfall in Lassen Volcanic National Park with a drop of 75 feet. The trail descends to the crossing of West Sulphur Creek, crosses an open hillside and follows through forested areas to the falls. Deer are likely to be seen as well as a variety of birds. Wildflowers cover the open hillside and are usually in full bloom by July. There are good views of Brokeoff Mountain and Mt. Diller.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Mill-Creek-Falls
DEER CREEK FALLS
This short and powerful waterfall ascends 18 feet to a punchbowl water hole at its base. Visible throughout the year, this waterfall is bypassed by a fish ladder which diverts from the waterfall and is noticeably reduced in late summer. Deer Creek Falls provides a great opportunity for swimming and kayaking and is easily accessible.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Deer-Creek-Falls
LITTLE CANYON CREEK FALLS
The smallest of multiple waterfalls on Canyon Creek, Little Canyon Creek Falls is the first waterfall you’ll see on the Canyon Creek Trail.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Little-Canyon-Creek-Falls
Through the Canyon Creek meadow and forested area you will find Middle Canyon Creek Falls. This waterfall is great for white water enjoyment and is moderately accessible.
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Middle-Canyon-Creek-Falls
UPPER CANYON CREEK FALLS
This waterfall is the last of a series of three on Canyon Creek. It is a difficult hike to the falls, but it’s worth it for the stunning waterfall and views of the Trinity Alps!
Learn More: UpStateCA.com/Account/ Upper-Canyon-Creek-Falls
Photo
Photo Credit: Michele James Photography
All Waterfalls of
UpStateCA
Still looking for more waterfalls to chase? Here you’ll find a complete list of all the waterfalls in UpStateCA!
Butte County
Beatson Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Beatson-Falls
Camp Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Camp-Creek-Falls
Coon Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Coon-Falls
Crevice (Crack) Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Crevice-(Crack)-Falls
Curtain Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Curtain-Falls
Feather Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/ Feather-Falls-National-Recreation-Trail
Flag Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Flag-Falls
Hidden Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Hidden-Falls
Hollow Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Hollow-Falls
Phantom Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Phantom-Falls
Modoc County
Mill Creek Falls (Modoc)
UpStateCA.com/Account/Mill-Creek-Falls-(Modoc)
Plumas County
Fern Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Fern-Falls
Frazier Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Frazier-Falls
Indian Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Indian-Falls
Shasta County
Bluff Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Bluff-Falls
Boulder Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Boulder-Creek-Falls
Crystal Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Crystal-Creek-Falls
Hall Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Hall-Creek-Falls
Kings Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Kings-Creek-Falls
Kinner Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Kinner-Falls
Potem Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Potem-Falls
Rock Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Rock-Creek-Falls
Root Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Root-Creek-Falls
Sweetbriar Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Sweetbriar-Falls
Whiskeytown Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Whiskeytown-Falls
Siskiyou County
Ash Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Ash-Creek-Falls
Bolam Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Bolam-Creek-Falls
Burstarse Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Burstarse-Falls
Faery Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Faery-Falls
Hedge Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Hedge-Creek-Falls
Johnson Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Johnson-Creek-Falls
Lower McCloud Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Lower-McCloud-Falls
Middle McCloud Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Middle-McCloud-Falls
Mud Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Mud-Creek-Falls
Shackelford Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Shackelford-Falls
Upper McCloud Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Upper-McCloud-Falls
Whitney Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Whitney-Falls
Tehama County
Battle Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Battle-Creek-Falls
Deadhorse Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Dead-Horse-Falls
Deer Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Deer-Creek-Falls
Little Hawaii Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Little-Hawaii-Falls
Lower Battle Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Lower-Battle-Creek-Falls
Mill Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Mill-Creek-Falls
Trinity County
Grizzly Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Grizzly-Creek-Falls
Kickapoo Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Kickapoo-Falls
Little Canyon Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Little-Canyon-Creek-Falls
Middle Canyon Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Middle-Canyon-Creek-Falls
Upper Canyon Creek Falls
UpStateCA.com/Account/Upper-Canyon-Creek-Falls
