10 Unbelievable Northern California Waterfalls Hiding In Plain Sight… No Hiking Required

Isn't Northern California just the most amazing place? As much as we love to hike into the depths of a cool forest for a hidden treasure like this, there's just something about driving up and walking just a few steps for the prize, right? If you're not into hiking for miles and miles, these falls below are an easy-as-pie hop, skip and jump from the road. Seriously - they're almost too easy! Just in case you're not up for hiking for any reason, we've put together a few of our favorite no-hike waterfalls in NorCal that require little to no exertion on your part to get there.

Looking for the best no-hike waterfalls in NorCal? These 10 glorious falls all fit the bill, including the always lovely Alamere Falls, pictured here.

1. Kinner Falls

This oasis is a narrow waterfall, and it drops 139 feet into the Pitt River below. Only about 90 minutes from the city of Redding, it's a lovely and easily accessible waterfall.

2. Lion Slide Falls

This one is a nice, short walk from Big Bend Road; it's far from a "hike". We do not recommend using a kayak to enjoy Lion Slide at Hatchet Falls, but this is still a pretty cool way to beat the heat during the warmest months. Use your kayak to enjoy it from the bottom of the falls, not the top!

3. Little Hawaii Falls

Located in Manton, this lush waterfall may not be the sole king when it comes to water flow, but it always wows us with its lush vegetation and beautiful, emerald moss covering every stone. It's a little slice of Hawaiian paradise right in our own Northern California backyards.

4. Lost Creek Falls

Summer is the perfect time to head over here, and a selfie is a must-do. How else can you make your friends jealous? You can find this exquisite spot in Hat Creek, which is about 90 minutes from the city of Redding. This is among our very favorite places to visit in Northern California.

5. McCloud River Lower Falls

This one is one of the three legendary McCloud Falls, and this 12-foot plunge is a doozy! But, if you're not into jumping in, you can sunbathe on the large flat rocks and just listen to the roar of the falls. Better yet, enjoy the campgrounds close by.

6. Mossbrae Falls

If you find yourself in Dunsmuir, then you need to add this waterfall in Northern California to your must-see list. Mossbrae Falls presents over 50 feet of cascading water year-round. The Sacramento River runs below, and it's the sweetest spot for some family photos and lifelong memories.

7. Bassi Falls

This one's a beauty! Full disclosure here, there's an easy walk from Ice House Road in Pollock Pines to this spot, but some like to take the two-to-three mile walk from the campground to access it. We're more interested in the easy walk from the road on this one, personally. Minimum effort, maximum reward!

8. Sempervirens Falls

You can find this slice of heaven in the Big Basin National Park. Take the well-marked spur trail downhill, cross the road, and walk down a few steps to the viewing platform. Beside the platform, Sempervirens Creek falls over a 10-foot-high ledge and into a deep pool in a little sanctuary grotto.

9. Basin Falls

Uvas Canyon County Park in Morgan Hill is home to this 20-foot cascading waterfall. An easy trek to this place is just what the doctor ordered for the perfect day - oh, and a lazy day, at that!

10. Alamere Falls

This 40-foot waterfall can be found on the bluffs of Point Reyes. One of the most amazing beach waterfalls in Northern California, it's a no-brainer of a bucket list trip. When are you going?

Once you've tackled these no-hike waterfalls in NorCal, take a peek at these 15 Northern California waterfalls that require a longer hike to access -- but are worth it! Put a few down on your calendar. Life is short - go for it! You will never regret it adventuring while you can.