McCloud Falls Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty of McCloud Falls, featuring three distinct cascades along the McCloud River in Northern California. Perfect for hikin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
McCloud Falls Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking beauty of McCloud Falls, featuring three distinct cascades along the McCloud River in Northern California. Perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
"The McCloud River in Redding contains 3 beautiful water falls, each gorgeous at every level."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Each fall has its own lot. Arrive early, especially on weekends, or be prepared to walk further.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower McCloud Falls
McCloud River
A picturesque 15-foot cascade where many visitors enjoy swimming or relaxing on the rocks.
Middle McCloud Falls
McCloud River
The most dramatic of the three, this 50-foot waterfall is a breathtaking sight.
Upper McCloud Falls
McCloud River
A powerful 25-foot waterfall offering a more rugged and less crowded experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for McCloud Falls
Navigating the Three Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Each fall has its own lot. Arrive early, especially on weekends, or be prepared to walk further.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Cold Water Warning
The McCloud River water is refreshing but very cold, even in summer. Swim with caution.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The scenery is stunning, especially during fall colors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Each fall has its own lot. Arrive early, especially on weekends, or be prepared to walk further.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Cold Water Warning
The McCloud River water is refreshing but very cold, even in summer. Swim with caution.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The scenery is stunning, especially during fall colors.
🗺️ Hike Between Falls
Don't just visit one! The trail connecting all three waterfalls is a highlight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of McCloud Falls, with many highlighting the unique charm of each of the three cascades. The accessibility and relatively short hikes to each fall are frequently praised, making it a great destination for families and casual visitors. However, be prepared for significant crowds and limited parking, especially during peak season and on weekends.
"We love Water Falls in California on the quest of exploring all the beauties within. we found the McCloud River in Redding, contains 3 beautiful water falls, although we missed the Burney Falls that's not too far away. One day we will try it.
From the east bay, it's about 300 miles north, if we want to see the falls and the lake shasta caverns, we need to sleep over one night because it'd take 5-6 hr to drive.
When we get to the McCloud River, there are actual roads to drive to 3 Falls, Lower, Middle and Upper Falls. Each from the parking lot only take a few minutes hike to see the Falls, although we didn't go to the bottom of the upper falls, but we could see some.
The lower falls where many people swim, or like us, sit on the rocks to feel the water gushing through rocks very nice.
The middle falls, we didn't really hike to the bottom of the falls but stayed where we could see the clear views of the falls. Where people also play with the water.
Next time when we visit Burney Falls, we will hike to the bottom of all these falls.
Love these falls, love California."
3dogs1monkey
"The most dreamy place to be. Everything is clean, fresh and the trail is always nice. In certain spots there’s big rocks so be careful because you can fall hard."
Izzy Rodriguez
"This is a very popular destination. During the summer expect crowds and limited parking.
The directions on Google Maps will take you to the lower of the three waterfalls. As beautiful as it is, don't miss visiting the middle and upper falls. The out and back trail is partially paved and is about 4 miles total. The section from the lower to the middle falls is relatively easy. I'd rate the section from the middle falls to the upper falls as moderate as there is a steep climb before it levels out at the top."
Tino Plank
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McCloud Falls Trail is located near Mount Shasta, California. From I-5, take exit 724 for CA-89 N towards McCloud. Follow CA-89 N for about 10 miles, then turn right onto McCloud Falls Road. The road leads to parking areas for Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls. Google Maps directions often lead to Lower Falls.
Public transport options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle to reach McCloud Falls Trail.
The most scenic way is to hike the McCloud River Trail connecting the falls. You can start at Lower Falls and hike to Middle and Upper Falls, or vice versa. Each fall also has its own parking lot if you prefer to drive between them.
McCloud Falls is approximately 70 miles north of Redding, California, which is about a 1.5-hour drive.
There are no entrance fees for McCloud Falls. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit McCloud Falls. It's a public access area.
McCloud Falls is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access may be limited during severe winter weather.
Yes, there are parking lots available at each of the three waterfalls (Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls). Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during summer.
Swimming is popular at Lower McCloud Falls, but the water is very cold. Be cautious of strong currents. Swimming is generally not recommended at Middle and Upper Falls due to the terrain and currents.
Dogs are generally allowed on the McCloud Falls Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The full out-and-back trail connecting all three falls is about 3.9 miles and takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you stop at each waterfall.
The trail from Lower to Middle Falls is relatively easy. The section from Middle to Upper Falls is considered moderate due to a steep climb. Overall, it's manageable for most fitness levels.
Restroom facilities are available at some of the parking areas, particularly at Lower and Middle Falls. It's advisable to bring your own hand sanitizer.
Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and sturdy hiking shoes. A swimsuit and towel are great if you plan to swim.
Yes, McCloud Falls is a very popular destination and can get quite crowded, especially during summer weekends. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning is recommended to avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Golden hour can create magical shots, especially with the fall foliage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of the waterfalls. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. A tripod is useful for long exposures to create silky water effects.
Yes, each waterfall offers distinct viewpoints. Lower Falls has accessible rocks near the water. Middle Falls provides a stunning overlook. Upper Falls has viewpoints from the trail.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Forest Service for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
Look for reflections in the water, capture the surrounding lush greenery, or photograph the powerful spray. The contrast between the water and the rocky terrain is also visually striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Lower Falls is a great spot for kids to splash around (with supervision, of course!) and enjoy the water. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While popular, visiting on a weekday can provide a sense of solitude, allowing you to connect with nature. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a fully charged phone. The moderate difficulty of the trail to Upper Falls provides a good challenge without being overly strenuous. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Visiting during the fall for the vibrant foliage adds another layer of visual interest. Consider bringing a variety of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, to capture both the grand scale of the falls and the intricate details of the surrounding flora. Early morning light is ideal for capturing the mist rising from the water. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Three McCloud Waterfalls
Continuing the hike, you'll reach Middle McCloud Falls, the most impressive of the trio at 50 feet. Its powerful flow and the dramatic rock formations surrounding it create a truly awe-inspiring scene. This is often a favorite for photographers and those seeking a dramatic natural spectacle.
The trail then leads to Upper McCloud Falls, a 25-foot waterfall that is more secluded and offers a more rugged, natural feel. While the hike to Upper Falls can be a bit steeper, the reward is a less crowded and equally beautiful cascade. Many visitors choose to hike the 3.9-mile round-trip trail that connects all three falls, offering a comprehensive experience of the McCloud River's beauty. This trail is partially paved and offers varied terrain, making it an engaging walk for most visitors.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as sections can be rocky and uneven, and be prepared for the refreshing, albeit cold, water of the McCloud River. Best Times to Visit McCloud Falls for Optimal Experience
For those who appreciate the beauty of changing seasons, fall offers a spectacular display of golden foliage that complements the cascading water. The crisp mountain air and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for hiking and photography.
While summer is popular for swimming, the water remains cold year-round, so be prepared for a bracing dip if you choose to swim. Photography and Capturing McCloud Falls
Middle Falls, with its dramatic drop and surrounding cliffs, is perfect for wide-angle shots that emphasize its power and scale. Upper Falls provides a more intimate setting, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings. To get the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. This lighting minimizes harsh shadows and creates a warm, inviting glow.
Using a tripod can help achieve silky smooth water effects in your long exposures, especially at Middle and Upper Falls. A polarizing filter is also beneficial for reducing glare on the water's surface and enhancing the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature. Remember to also capture the journey between the falls; the trail itself offers beautiful forest scenery and river views that add depth to your photographic narrative. 
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