Waterfalls
Falling for the Water
Looking for something a bit magical to add to your hikes around Redding? The Shasta Cascade region is known as the Golden’s State’s waterfall mecca for good reason. Whether you spend a day or an entire weekend exploring the waterfalls near Redding, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of rushing waters and mist that await.
There are dozens of cascading waterfalls throughout the Northern California landscape, and many can be accessed on one single loop drive from Redding to Burney, north to Mt. Shasta, and back to Redding. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, west of Redding, is also home to many of the waterfalls visitors seek out on their adventures here.
Chasing Waterfalls
Whether you seek adventure or serenity, the McCloud River's trio of falls will surely nourish your spirit. Wind through the canyon on this smooth, accessible trail, surrounded by basalt columns and blanketed in lush forests. Dip into swimming holes on warm summer days. Treasure brilliant fall colors reflecting on the cascades. And it's all only a scenic 80-mile drive north of Redding.
Discover Whiskeytown Falls
Let the rushing sounds of Whiskeytown Falls wash over you like a daydream. Watch in wonder as its waters cascade 220 feet down in a show of nature’s splendor. Ascend the concrete staircase into its misty veil. At the top, breathe deep as your soul is instantly revived.
This is just one of Whiskeytown’s enchanted waterfalls awaiting you. Are you ready to journey into paradise?
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Shasta Falls
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Lassen Falls
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Whiskeytown Falls
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South of Redding
Shasta Trinity National Forest Falls
A dense collection of diverse waterfalls dot the Shasta Trinity National Forest and its surroundings. Upper McCloud crashes through a gorge while the calmer Lower McCloud Falls provide swimming opportunities. Faery Falls is a springtime must when the falls are at their fullest. The tallest waterfall in Mount Shasta at Ash Creek Falls plunges 290 feet and is only visible from afar. Hedge Creek Falls is a hidden waterfall with a cave behind it that visitors can access while also seeing the humble Kinner Falls.
Lassen Volcanic National Park Falls
Come to Lassen Volcanic National Park for geothermal fun, but cool off with some of the region’s best waterfalls. Kings Creek Falls, Mill Creek Falls, and Bluff Falls all provide some rushing cascades within the park. Nearby, Dead Horse Falls gives photographers plenty of inspiration while others may opt to swim in the gentler Deer Creek Falls.
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Falls
If you’re not too busy boating on the reservoir, head to some of Whiskeytown National Recreation area’s top cascades. Small examples like Boulder Creek Falls and Brandy Creek Falls are excellent stops along your journey. A calm, flat hike to Crystal Creek Falls is an easy journey for most visitors, and of course Whiskeytown Falls, crashing down 220 feet, is the tallest in the whole park, accessible by an often misty trail.
Cascades South of Redding
A short drive south of Redding, visitors stand in awe of Feather Falls, the tallest in the region. While there, set the GPS for Curtain Falls, a difficult-to-access gush of water. Nearby, at Mount Table, the narrow Beatson Falls is best in the winter while the curvy Hollow Falls offers easy access for views. Photographers will find picture-perfect shots at Phantom Falls, which cascades over a cliff and seemingly into the trees below.
