This One Easy Hike In Northern California Will Lead You Someplace Unforgettable

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.

The McCloud Waterfall Hike is a short hike with monumental views. It's 3.5 miles long and features less than 600 feet elevation gain.

Begin your hike by parking at the Upper McCloud Falls. You can start from either end, but if you don't want to hike back uphill, you can leave a car at the bottom, by the Lower Falls.

The water on this first cascade pours out with a lot of power and drops about 25 feet.

Keep heading down the trail, but don't forget to stop and enjoy the views along the way.

Next, you will arrive at the Middle Falls, which are widely regarded as the most scenic and epic of the three.

For an almost bird's-eye view, you can also check out these falls from the parking area above.

The Lower McCloud Falls are a popular place to jump in the river. Daredevils flock here to jump from a safety platform into this iconic Northern California swimming hole.

While you can also drive to each of these waterfalls, getting out and spending an afternoon or morning in the woods and alongside the rushing water of the McCloud is a treat like no other.

Would you take this unforgettable hike to these epic waterfalls? Share your thoughts with us today!