The 12 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Northern California That Everyone Should Visit
By Jill S.
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Published August 06, 2017
Let’s be honest, Northern California features some of the most breathtaking scenery in the entire world. We have no shortage of natural wonders, but here’s a few of our favorites that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
1. The McCloud Waterfall Hike along the McCloud River
Waterfalls are to Northern California like cathedrals are to Europe: epic and plentiful! With the high precipitation this winter season leaving our cascades full, there really is no better time to see some of the region’s iconic falls. Some of our favorite falls are all located on the McCloud river, and we love this epic hike that follows alongside this incredible river.
The McCloud river has three major falls that are simply named the Upper, Middle, and Lower. To get to all 3 in one day, follow the fun and easy McCloud Waterfall Trail.
Learn More Here.
2. Lake Almanor in Plumas County
Located in Plumas County, Lake Almanor is a large, high elevation reservoir that was created in 1927.
People come here to view wildlife, fish, paddle the still water of the lake, and soak in the mountain views. It's definitely one of the top recreation destinations in this part of California.
Learn More Here.
3. Enderts Beach near Crescent City
Enderts Beach near Crescent City is one of those places where the scenery is breathtaking and other visitors are few and far between.
Located within the Redwood National Park on the coast of Del Norte County, Enderts Beach is one of the most scenic beaches along the Northern California coast.
Learn More Here.
4. Mount Shasta
The Mount Shasta area is an outdoor lover’s paradise with plenty of opportunities for hiking, waterfall exploration, swimming, boating, and more. Every from extreme sports enthusiasts to family vacationers and retirees are choosing this destination as the premier vacation spot in California.
Learn More Here.
5. Shasta Lake
you love hanging out on the water, there’s no better place in all of Northern California than the largest reservoir in the whole state. Shasta Lake is the best destination in Northern California for boating and family fun in the sun.
Learn More Here.
6. Bumpass Hell in Lassen Volcanic National Park
This 2.9 mile trail in Northern California has it all — alpine lakes, mountain vista, and best of all, murky geothermal mud pits and pools. The Bumpass Hell Trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park is so wild and unusual, you wouldn’t be able to dream up this kind of landscape in years.
Learn More Here.
7. Burney Falls in the McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park
Burney Falls are considered by many the most beautiful falls in California, if not the world. Unlike Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, or Nevada Falls there isn't just one mighty stream of water that tumbles over rocks.
Learn More Here.
8. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens in Fort Bragg
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are located in Fort Bragg between California's Highway One and the Pacific Ocean.They are comprised of 47 acres of canyons, wetlands, coastal bluffs, and a closed-cone pine forest in addition to the beautiful flowers that are carefully tended here.
Learn More Here.
9. Castle Crags State Park in Siskiyou County off I-5
The state park is located about an hour north of Redding off Highway 5. Castle Crags is a breathtaking granite rock formation that has taken millions of years to create.The Crags are a popular outdoor recreation destination and were formed by granite being eroded by glaciers over thousands of years.
Learn More Here.
10. Hedge Creek Falls near Dunsmuir
If you don’t mind a fun little walk, you should definitely check out this pleasant hike to Hedge Creek Falls near Dunsmuir.We suggest making this little detour. It's well worth it! This is a short but pretty little hike and you will love the hidden waterfall tucked away into the mountain side.
Learn More Here.
11. The North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Butte County
Poppies, lupines and purple owl's clover are just some of the incredible blooms that grow each spring in this Butte County slice of paradise. The reserve is located on 3,315 acres about 7 miles north of Oroville.
Learn More Here.
12. Little Backbone Creek near Shasta Lake
Shasta Lake is an amazing vacation destination here in Northern California, but few people have heard of the natural water slide located just a 20 minute hike from the lake’s shores. Known as Little Backbone Creek, this gorgeous swimming hole should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Learn More Here.
Have you visited all the places on this list? Let us know in the comments below, as well as if there are any places we missed that should be added to the article.
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