You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking Northern California Trail

Walk through an enchanting landscape of old-growth redwoods, maples, trillium flowers, and ferns as you make your way to a tiny yet picturesque waterfall just off this Northern California trail. This family-friendly hike through this enchanting landscape passes by a small yet beautiful waterfall.

Located in Redwood National and State Parks, the Trillium Falls Trail is a moderately challenging 2.6-mile loop trail, with a 200-foot elevation gain. This hike is in one of the most beautiful and unique parks in the world and promises to be an unforgettable experience. Whether or not you’re a fan of waterfalls, this gorgeous trail will no doubt impress you!

The journey begins at the Elk Meadow day-use area, conveniently located just off Davison Road, three miles north of Orick. (As you drive through Orick, keep your eyes peeled for the herd of Roosevelt Elk that inhabit this area!).

Here, you'll find ample parking for vehicles of all sizes, including buses, RVs, and trailers. The trailhead is equipped with flush toilets and picnic tables, providing a perfect spot for a pre-or-post-hike picnic.

The Trillium Falls Trail is celebrated for its scenic beauty and is one of the best walks in the Redwood National and State Parks.

Open year-round, the trail is accessible in any season and offers a different charm with each visit as the seasons change.

The hike is generally considered moderately challenging, taking about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. The compact gravel, aggregate, and wood trail winds through a forest brimming with lush greenery and awe-inspiring redwoods.

With a width averaging four feet, the path features moderate climbs and some switchbacks, especially in the first quarter mile. Tree roots occasionally cross the trail, adding a bit of rugged charm.

About half a mile from the trailhead, you’ll reach Trillium Falls, a picturesque spot perfect for photos and a brief rest.

To protect the delicate vegetation around the waterfall, hikers are advised to stay on the designated bridge.

Some people just walk to the falls to get a glimpse but those looking to extend their time among the towering redwood trees, continue on the full loop.

The trail can be muddy in spots, but recent reviews indicate it remains manageable and well worth the effort.

Upgrade to AllTrails+ to access all sorts of helpful features such as offline trail maps, alerts for wrong turns, and to preview a 3D flyover view of the trail.

While the waterfall is a delightful feature, the real highlight is the trail itself, with its unique trees, plants, and fallen giant trees providing captivating sights at every turn.

This lush landscape looks like a real-life fairytale forest!

Whether you're an avid hiker or a family looking for a scenic adventure, the Trillium Falls Trail in Orick offers a memorable experience amid some of nature’s most majestic settings. Have you hiked this scenic Northern California trail that leads to this beautiful waterfall?