A waterfall cascades into a lake below in Redding, CA. Credit Ryan Thompson.
Get Outside

Waterfalls

Crystal Creek Falls

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 surrounding 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.

  • Shasta Falls
  • Lassen Falls
  • Whiskeytown Falls
  • South of Redding
Shasta Falls
Shasta Falls

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 Falls
Lassen Falls
Lassen 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 Falls
Whiskeytown 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.

South of Redding
Waterfalls south of Redding.
South of Redding

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.

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