These 15 Hidden Waterfalls in Northern California Will Take Your Breath Away
When you think about Northern California, do you think about waterfalls? You should! The Pacific Ocean borders our coastline and takes our breath away with each rocky peak and sandy shore. But there’s a lot more to water in our part of the country than sandy beaches and rocky crags.
Waterfalls, for example.
Yep, we have our fair share of incredible spots that will help you forget the Pacific Ocean for a while. Spots you can hike to, picnic below or just throw caution to the wind and jump on into. Here are a few of our favorites:
These falls were called the "eighth wonder of the world" by President Theodore Roosevelt. They're located in McArthur-Burney Fall Memorial State Park, Shasta County.
Plumas National Forest
is where you can find this beauty. It free falls at an awesome 410 feet. Feather Falls is the sixth highest in the nation. A favorite of many, the fall boasts swimming holes and killer views. The view of the canyon from the brink is to die for.
Tucked away in the tiny scenic town of Dunsmuir just south of Mount Shasta. But you can’t actually get there—not legally, anyway. There's controversy surrounding this waterfall, which, until further notice, is officially closed to the public. But we hear hikers are lawbreakers when it comes to hiking here. Apparently, this one is worth it.
Located in Yosemite, there are two waterfalls that cascade side by side over 1500 feet! If Horsetail Fall is flowing in February and the weather conditions are just right, the setting sun illuminates the waterfall, making it glow orange and red. Pretty awesome!
Since we're already in Yosemite, we need to show you Yosemite Falls. The highest waterfall in Yosemite National Park, dropping a total of 2,425 feet. Yeah, she's kind of a big deal.
Alamere Falls is a rare "tidefall", a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean. (You know you're impressed.) It is one of only two in the area, the other being McWay Falls.
Sardine Falls is located in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. Its highest point is 9,000 feet, with the trailhead elevation at 8,800 feet. It's known to be a desolate hike, so bring essentials in your backpack.
These falls show off after a good rain storm. Consisting of about seven separate cascades along Cataract Creek. They are all in the neighborhood of 30 to 60 feet and are a whole lot of gorgeous.
When was the last time you packed a lunch and took Mother Nature’s hand for a quick hike? Discover the hidden beauty Northern California has to offer – we promise there’s much more to see than the Pacific Ocean.
How about you? Which of these waterfalls have YOU seen up close and face to face? Which ones did you just add to your bucket list?
Joanne is a fourth-generation Northern Californian. She knows good sour dough bread when she tastes it and understands the best parts of the Golden State are nowhere near Los Angeles.
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