Find yourself perusing the internet for “waterfalls near me in northern California?” Seeking out one of northern California’s picturesque waterfalls always makes for a fantastic experience. However, sometimes we aren’t in the mood for a strenuous hike. All day adventures are great, but they aren’t always practical. Lucky for us, our region of the Golden State is loaded with easy-access waterfalls. There are plenty of waterfalls in northern California that are easily seen from the road or after a short, easy hike. We’ve found six of these accessible waterfalls that are worth the minimal effort to see them. Get ready to set out and find one of these beauties for yourself!
1. Hedge Creek Falls: 4131 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA, 96025
Hedge Creek Falls, 4131 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, USA
This brilliant 35-foot cascade pours out over a basalt overhang. Hedge Creek Falls is a downright gorgeous sight. This lovely waterfall is located right off Interstate 5 in Dunsmuir. Finding it is a quick and easy adventure that won't take all day. Simply take the short 0.6-mile trail (located right by Exit 732) right down to the waterfall. There, you can soak up its beauty and even explore the cave behind it. Did you know the cave behind the waterfall was once used by stagecoach robbers as a hideout?
2. Bridalveil Fall: Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, CA
The beautiful Bridalveil Fall near Pollock Pines is practically a drive-up waterfall. It's located right along Highway 50, and even has a large pullout right in front of it. All you have to do is pull over and there it is! It's a great option for those with mobility issues who may not be able to enjoy some of the great hiking trails with waterfalls in northern California. This 80-foot cascade is simply spectacular. It's more than worth a brief pit stop when driving through the area!
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3. Devils Falls: Yankee Jims Rd, Colfax, CA, 95713
Devils Falls is an underrated gem in northern California that's definitely worth checking out. It's tucked right along Yankee Jims Road, about five miles south of Colfax. The waterfall is an approximately 60-foot-tall cascade that splits into two separate flows. You can see the falls right from the road. Some adventurers opt to hike down to the bottom to get a better view, but it's easily seen from the small parking lot if you aren't able to hike to the bottom.
There's a reason that Burney Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in northern California. This unique waterfall is an extraordinary thing to see in person. It's easily accessible via a short path within the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. This easy 1-mile trail will take you directly to an overlook of this famous natural wonder. Don't forget to bring your camera!
5. Lake Clementine Dam: Lake Clementine Rd, Auburn, CA, 95603
Lake Clementine Dam & Boat Launch, Lake Clementine Rd, Auburn, CA 95603, USA
This man-made waterfall in northern California is awe-inspiring, to say the least. A lot of visitors choose to take advantage of the Lake Clementine Trail to view the falls. The trail runs right along the North Fork American River. However, you can easily spot this cascade from the road as well. Simply turn onto Lake Clementine Road (off Foresthill Road, off of I-80) and drive a few miles. There is a fee to access the dam.
6. Potem Falls in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest: Redding, CA,
Potem Falls is another gem that's waiting for you at the end of a short and sweet trail. It's located within a lush and rugged canyon. This 45-foot waterfall (and the pool at its base!) is a popular swimming destination during the warmer months. You can access the trailhead just after the Fenders Ferry Bridge. The trail itself is only 0.4 miles out and back. This gorgeous place looks like something out of a fairy tale.
How many of these easy-access waterfalls have you seen? Know of any others that should be on the list? Share them with us in the comments!
