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Three amazing waterfalls, a campground, swimming hole, and the sounds of a roaring creek make this hike a real treat!


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Map Key

4.1

Miles

6.5

KM

Out and Back

3,503' 1,068 m

High

3,239' 987 m

Low

302' 92 m

Up

302' 92 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

15%

Max Grade (9°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Waterfall

Family Friendly Picnic tables, swimming, easy access, a campground nearby, and bathrooms make this a good option for a family outing.

Overview

There are three fantastic waterfalls on this short, easy hike along the McCloud River. The trail is partially paved, but mostly singletrack. There are parking places near both ends of the hike and an overlook near each waterfall, so it's possible to do the hike in any direction. The Middle and Lower Falls have swimming holes, which feel wonderful on a hot day. The trail continues past the Upper Falls for quite a few more miles if you want to hike further.

Description

Starting from the lower parking area, follow the trail along the banks of the McCloud River through scenic forest. Eventually, the trail will begin to climb in earnest as it passes the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls and affords you fantastic views of the water.

Flora & Fauna

Ferns and forest abound on this hike.

Contacts

Shared By:

Dawn Westrum

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 4 votes

#2850

Overall
  4.5 from 4 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#381

in California

#2,850

Overall
8 Views Last Month
1,546 Since Jul 16, 2017
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

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Photos

Middle Falls McCloud River.
Jul 16, 2017 near McCloud, CA
McCloud Middle Falls
May 25, 2023 near McCloud, CA
Middle Falls
Jun 23, 2020 near McCloud, CA
McCloud Lower Falls
May 25, 2023 near McCloud, CA
McCloud Middle Falls
May 25, 2023 near McCloud, CA
McCloud Lower Falls
May 25, 2023 near McCloud, CA

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Jul 20, 2023
Hyungon Kim
May 25, 2023
Stewart Carnes
Aug 27, 2022
SD SD
Start
May 23, 2022
Maria Garcia
Apr 1, 2022
Mark Lee
1mi — 0h 25m
May 11, 2021
John Taylor
3.2mi — 1h 21m
Jun 17, 2020
Bear Rinehart
Jun 25, 2019
Tilman Giese
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