5 Waterfall Trails Near Redding, California That Are Pure Magic to Explore This Fall
If you’re looking to escape into nature and enjoy some stunning views, waterfall trails near Redding, California, offer a perfect way to do that. Whether you’re into easy walks or a bit more of a hike, these trails provide beautiful scenery and refreshing spots to explore.
The magic of these waterfall trails is in their accessibility and natural beauty, making them ideal for anyone wanting a quick outdoor adventure close to home. You’ll find peaceful settings where you can unwind, snap photos, and enjoy the sound of rushing water.
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Burney Falls Trail
If you’re near Redding, Burney Falls is a solid pick for a chill hike. The trail loops around the waterfall, giving you plenty of cool views without a tough climb.
You can see the falls right from the parking area, but the loop trail lets you get closer to that powerful cascade. It’s a nice spot to relax and listen to the water.
The trail is shaded and lined with greenery, so it feels fresh and calm. It’s a great way to stretch your legs while taking in one of California’s most pretty waterfalls. Check out more details on the Burney Falls hike.
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McCloud Falls Loop
The McCloud Falls Loop lets you explore three beautiful waterfalls—Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls—all in one hike. The trail is about 3.9 miles long and has a moderate elevation gain, making it a perfect outing for most skill levels.
You’ll follow a well-maintained path through basalt canyons and lush forest. Along the way, there are spots for swimming in summer and plenty of chances for photos. The loop’s smooth trail and scenic views make it a great choice near Redding.
For detailed trail info and directions, check out the McCloud Waterfalls Trail guide.
Whiskeytown Falls Trail
If you’re up for a solid hike, the Whiskeytown Falls Trail is a great choice. It’s about 3.5 miles round trip and takes you to the tallest waterfall in the area.
The trail is named after James K. Carr, a local who helped create the park. You’ll enjoy a mix of shaded forest and scenic views along the way.
Once you reach the falls, you’ll see a three-tiered cascade dropping nearly 220 feet. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break and snap some photos before heading back.
More details about the trail are available at the Whiskeytown Falls Trail page.
Kings Creek Falls Hike
The Kings Creek Falls hike offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views along the way. You’ll start by passing through open meadows before descending toward the falls.
The waterfall itself drops about 30 to 46 feet, spilling over rocks in multiple directions. It’s a great spot to pause and take photos or just enjoy the sound of rushing water.
The trail is moderately accessible and includes a fenced overlook where you can safely view the falls. It’s especially nice in late spring and summer when the water flow shapes a terraced look.
For a longer outing, you can extend your hike along nearby trails to lakes and additional scenic spots.
More details are available at the Kings Creek Falls hiking page.
Mill Creek Falls Trail
If you’re looking for a trail that’s not too tough but still offers great views, Mill Creek Falls Trail is a solid choice. The path will first lead you to an overlook where you can see Mill Creek Falls from above.
Keep going, and you can hike down to the base of the falls for a closer look. The trail is about 2 miles long and has a moderate difficulty, so it’s perfect for a quick outdoor adventure near Redding. More info can be found on the Mill Creek Falls Trail page.
