Though not as spectacular as Middle Falls, Upper Falls is still an impressive waterfall. Two more switchbacks finally lead to a well-built wooden staircase that climbs the last 30 feet out of the canyon. The concrete pylons seen earlier carried the water from this point. This was once connected to pipes and was the diversion discharge for the dam. The McCloud has been shaped by volcanism in more tangible ways besides its volume as well.

At that point depart the road and bushwhack to the west.

Pass the Fowlers Camp campground and turn left into the signed parking lot for the Lower Falls picnic area.Very much enjoyed the détailler descriptions.

This trail is in excellent condition, maintained by the National Forest Service, and very well marked. Continue for 0.7 miles. Save Add Review Get Directions Add Photo. Went on a week day early morning! A short distance from the end of the railing, the trail drops a little below the rim of the canyon, though it remains high above the river. Three waterfalls have formed where the river has encountered tough, erosion-resistant bands of basalt. After parking and a 5-minute walk along the McCloud River, you will get to the viewing area. Dogs on leash … Definitely a nice place to take a break, dip your feet in and have a snack This trail offers beautiful views of the 3 McCloud Falls.
Shasta, California.

Flowing east of and parallel to the Sacramento River for 77 miles across Siskiyou County and Shasta County, the river is famous for its spectacular trio of waterfalls that pour over varying shapes of basaltic lava flows.. Often referred to as the Falls of the McCloud River or McCloud Falls, the three … Furthermore, the portion of the meadow in close proximity to the trail is often choked with brush. middles and upper falls are beautiful.Fairly easy trail along the river with lots of nice views. Hikers can chose to visit each waterfall separately or follow the trail along the McCloud river along the full 3.5 miles.

May I courteously suggest that someone proofread the final copy for syntax and other grammatical oversights that may be distraction to readers.

The trail, however, switches back and begins to climb out of the river’s canyon. The water surging over the precipice is an awesome view from here. You can access falls on all 3 trails--Upper is a super short, very steep scramble, Middle/Lower are easy water access. Such a nice hike with shaded area portions along the trail. Lower falls is the shortest at fifteen feet with the upper fall being twenty-five feet. This partitions the falls; the further third being on the far side of the river. It still remains wide and is very level. McCloud Waterfall Trail is a 3.5 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Mccloud, California that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. At times the trail is constructed out of piles of rugged lava rock. goes through some of the camp sites. My family (myself, wife, 10yo, 7yo) did this hike today on a Monday and it was incredible. It’s best to check with the local weather authorities for road conditions. Rather than extensive volcanic features and a roaring river, the area beyond the Lakin Dam is very pastoral.

Lower falls is the shortest at fifteen feet with the upper fall being twenty-five feet. Since this section of trail does not see many hikers, mountain bikers have adopted it as their own. Unless pressed for time, the whole trail is very scenic and worth doing. very groomed, partially paved and very easy.

Returning to the main trail, follow the railing on a paved ADA trail to an overlook directly above the falls. More importantly, the river is swollen by subterranean waters coming from the heart of the great volcano. The grade is moderate while the trail climbs for a little less than 0.1 miles before switching back again. Water was very cold but it feels so nice to at least dip your feet in the water after being in the sun for so long. We didn’t have enough time before sunset, so we visited only the middle waterfall and it was absolutely breathtaking. Do you have any updates to the hiking trail or want to share your hike/pictures? This is a great option for those looking for a longer hike.If beginning the McCloud River Falls Trail at the typical spot, park in the large parking area for the Lower Falls picnic area. Cause when afternoon hit lots more people started to show up! Lots of people were fishing too! You have to go down a little side trail but the pool makes it worth it. From there, you will proceed about 5 miles until you reach the marked turn for upper falls.

Large mammals from deer to mountain lions and bears can be seen. This was the least impressive of the three falls to me, but it was the one you could get closest to, and I heard you can even swim in it during summertime, making it a great spot to hang out and relax.There is also a bunch of picnic benches here so you can enjoy a nice lunch with the family while taking in a beautiful waterfall. Altogether the McCloud River flows for 77 miles from near Dead Horse Summit in the east to Shasta Lake in the west. California. So gorgeous!Make sure you see all 3 of these beautiful waterfalls! Few hike this section of the trail.