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We parked at the lower end of the river then made our way to the top. The trail is fairly easy, but a fun one. It's about a 4 mile round trip hike. The water is pristine and nature's landscape is amazing. The restrooms are hideous. Bring a gas mask or stuff some vapor rub up your nostrils! I ain't joking. Bears are known to be present in the area so stay vigilant.
During our stay at Dunsmuir several people had mentioned that we just had to see the McCloud waterfalls. So leaving Dunsmuir - and before visiting Mount Shasta - we went north on 5 and then eastbound on 89 to the Falls. The drive was easy and scenic, except for the requisite flagman/road construction on 89. The falls were spectacular! Record snow melt really made them roar! We visited Middle Falls and Lower Falls, driving between each one. If you don't take the trail, you look down on Middle Falls from an overlook - it was the largest of the two we saw and quite amazing. Then we made the short drive to Lower Falls, and here it's easy to walk down a few steps and relax by the falls. Lower Falls is not as spectacular but has its own set of rapids and beauty. Decent sized parking lots were at both locations, although Middle Falls what is a challenge to find a spot even on a weekday late morning. Lower Falls was easier for parking. Both have pit toilets and picnic tables. For lunch, if you are not picnicking, the city of McCloud is a short drive away.
I had a blast at McCloud Falls! It was a lot of hiking so keep that in mind when planning to go or inviting people. It was well worth the hike and the water was so refreshing. We went to Lower and Middle Falls, spending the majority of our time at Middle Falls and relaxing in the water. We got to watch people cliff jumping off both falls and enjoyed the beautiful sights of the crystal clear water, greenery surrounding us and soaking up the sun.
This review is for the McCloud Upper And Middle Falls which was a ~1.6 mile round trip that took ~45 mins to complete. Due to time constraints, we chose to hike the upper and middle falls only. Beautiful views of the waterfall; middle falls was definitely the better one! We started from the Middle Fall Parking to Upper Falls and then back to Middle Falls. Relatively flat or minimal elevation to Upper Falls. However, decline to the bottom of Middle Falls and back up to the parking lot. Short video of the hike for those interested: https://youtu.be/fBczHEph-II
Another epic trip in 2021! While driving up north California, we visited the three McCloud waterfalls - lower, middle and upper falls! They were all close but you still have to drive to each location. We visit visited the lower falls which was popular and the best since it's very close to the parking area but the bathrooms are nasty. You can smell the sewage from outside. Lots of places to put your chair and hang out by the river. There are short hiking trails to take but why when you can hang out by the river and jump off in the large swim hole by the falls. Water was cold but during hot summer months, you won't feel it too bad. The middle falls was very nice too but you have to hike half a mile down to be by the waterfalls. Super pretty! Beware you have to hike back up to go to the parking lot. The upper falls was big but not many hanging out here. We didn't hike down as we got tired already. We should have rented a hotel but the closed was in Redding and they were more like motels. There is not much shade in any of the falls so wear sunscreen, swimming outfit and a hat. It snows here during the winter but I prefer the summer days to visit this place! We will be back! [36th/100]
Just as beautiful as it looks in all of those wonderful pictures! Mccloud Falls is nothing short of amazing. I've been wanting to visit these falls for quite some time now, and I'm so glad that I was able to see them in person. Mccloud Falls is located a little over 20 minutes outside of Mount Shasta. There are three waterfalls that make up Mccloud Falls (Upper, Middle, and Lower) with the Middle Falls being the most popular because of its' stellar layout and wondrous views. You can either hike or drive to all three, but they're all pretty busy and parking fills up quickly during peak seasons. I arrived in the evening time and found a spot in the main parking lot for Middle Falls. These falls are FABULOUS! The hike down to Middle Falls and back is short and sweet - maybe less than a mile at most. I had been hiking to different waterfalls all day, so I decided to only hike down to Middle Falls and drive to the other two to save some time. And let me tell you - Middle Falls is where it's at! I completely understand why these falls are the most popular out of three; they're the largest and most dramatic falls. Breathtaking can't really even describe it. It's just absolutely gorgeous! From here, you can actually take a dip in the Mccloud River, but it's much easier to access at Lower Falls. This place is BUSY! I went on Memorial Day weekend, and although it was super hot out, it was still pretty packed. Luckily, there's a lot of room to spread out and enjoy this beauty. I also witnessed several people jumping from the top of the falls into the river. A bit nerve racking to watch, but also pretty entertaining. The Upper and Lower falls are both stunning as well. Upper Falls is more like your traditional waterfall with one main fall that flourishes down from a higher elevation. The Lower Falls is the smallest of the bunch, but it's also the most easily accessible. This is where most people go to actually swim in the river. It's also pretty busy here, but not nearly as busy as Middle Falls. Definitely still worth a visit even on a busy day. I think I lucked out by coming later on in the evening, but I'd suggest coming early or late to secure a decent parking spot and view.
Exclusively for DOG OWNERS This is an awesome trail for dogs. It said you have to have dogs on leash for the trails. However, there were plenty off leashed cuties on the trail. I dont mind them at all. But, since this is a popular trail, there might be non dog visitors who will say something. When we were there, the trail was nice and dry. Did not see any unclaimed poop on the the trail nor unattended poop bags laying around. Most importantly no burs! I did not have my Coco with us this time, because like all of us she is a little bit shaggy. And I did not want to deal with plucking burs after a hike. But, she will join us for sure.
Wonderful afternoon spent on the McCloud river, located in Shasta-Trinity national forest. It was an oddly overcast and humid summer day when I visited but it actually made the trail pleasant to hike since there was no sun beating down. After visiting, Burney Falls, the drive to this area was about 45 minutes-highly worth it if you're in the area. I followed directions and parked near the Upper Falls area where there is a small lot, pit toilet and a small picnic area. It's a short walk over to the falls themselves and while you can certainly drive to the different falls separately, it's much more fun to hike the trail that runs along the river. It's packed dirt in some areas and paved in others with only one "steepish" (but not hard) section down to Middle Falls. At some points you will be above the river, at others hiking alongside it, but the whole way is nicely shaded and very scenic. All three falls were worth the trip and if you're wanting to swim, both Middle and Lower falls offer access. Near lower falls you will pass through a campground area with restrooms should you need one before heading back. It was a highly enjoyable hike that was scenic and mild. Free parking so you can easily make a day of it with a picnic lunch, a hike and even a swim. Truly a beautiful area.
Thursday, 7/09/2010 - McCloud Falls in Redding, CA. Beautiful!! If you stop at upper falls, you can hike to middle falls and the lower falls. Hold your little kids hands if you choose to hike to middle falls. We decided to take the 3 minute drive to middle falls instead. Didn't want our kiddos tumbling down the side of the mountain from upper falls to middle falls. Lol. Kids love to run and jump no matter how narrow the walk way. McCloud Middle Falls was an easy 1 mile hike to the falls. First on paved road, then dirt road that snakes around like theme park ride lines, and there is 1 stair you gotta walk on. Maybe like 40 step stair case. I'm estimating. Still an easy hike to see a beautiful waterfall. It's extremely rocky once you reach the waterfall. When first getting into the cold water, it'll shock your warm body at first entry. But, once you get in and your body adjust to the water temperature, it's ok. We only wet our feet. Didn't actually swim full body at middle falls. It's so beautiful here. We kept all our trash with us. We didn't have much. But if hiking or camping in the woods. Let's all do our part and pick up after ourselves to keep nature clean. It was clean at McCloud Falls. I didn't see trash everywhere.
You'll have to walk on snow covered roads before you get on the trails to get to all the falls because it's snowed in. Normally, I think you can drive up to each of the falls. Middle falls is worth it though! Walking on snow takes longer especially since some snow was fresh and the older snow was frozen (more slippery). I'd recommend bringing trekking poles! Middle falls was my favorite! There's a nice trail to hike down to middle falls. There's some snow and ice on the trail so it can be slippery.
Oh gosh! This place was magical. I would highly recommend it, especially with family or friends. This is also a dog-friendly area and did not see any dog poop laying around. It is also well kept. I did not see any trash laying around (thank you to everyone doing their part). I did a solo trip to the greater Redding area and came across this area because I was already visiting McArthur Burney State Park (highly recommend). It's less than an hour away and Castle Crag State Park is also super close (you could totally knock it all out in one day). There are no fees you have to pay for parking and there are public restrooms if you are entering through the Lower Falls. The Middle Falls is definitely where it is, especially from the birds-eye view. They have a fenced-off area at the top where you can enjoy watching the waterfalls from above and admire the nature around. I could only imagine how nice it would be during the summer. I definitely will come back to swim in the pools. I came in the early afternoon on a weekend when it was showering and not that many people were there. If you can't do the full 3 miles, I would at least recommend making it to the Middle Falls. It definitely is a picture-perfect background. It's even more beautiful during fall when the colors are changing. The hike is easy for experienced hikers. Most of it is nicely paved and age friendly. A couple of people were fishing throughout. They have a nice picnic area near the Lower Falls as well if you want to have lunch or something. I highly recommend coming. Gorg-- who couldn't complain about seeing THREE waterfalls in one day.
After hiking around Burney Falls, we made our way to check out McCloud River. The falls are divided by upper, middle and lower. Each section has their own parking lot. We parked in the lower falls parking lot and hiked our way up. The hike from lower to middle was easy. We skipped the upper falls. Beautiful views of the waterfalls. There are portable potty in each level. Really dirty, no sink and stinky but if you gotta go, you gotta go :) read more
McCloud Falls should have its own Yelp page listing because this is like posting about Niagara Falls in a Niagara River page. McCloud and Burney Falls (an hour away) make the best one-two punch for waterfalls outside Yosemite. However, unlike Burney Falls, McCloud Falls has lots of free parking and no entrance fee because it is not a state park. Upper Falls is the least dramatic. An ADA-accessible trail leads to an observation deck about 90 feet above the falls. The fact that people were waiting efficiently in a line to take a photo was more exciting for me than the falls itself. Plus, it is a bit strange looking down on waterfalls. Stupid waterfalls. Anyhow, of the three locations Upper Falls offers a quieter environment, ideal for relaxation and reflection, especially if the water is still. Lower Falls was the most chaotic, with two lanes of parking lot traffic on a one-way road, and more kids sprawling the river for swimming. The area, stocked with trout, seemed the more picnic and day trippy of the falls, the best place to eat your lunch. Middle Falls is the money shot. The postcard. The one that has people posing for hours for the 'Gram. This is because it's 50 feet high and over 100 feet wide, creating a curtain of water over a basalt cliff into a pool below. McCloud Falls deserves its own Yelp page--lumping it in with a generic "McCloud River" listing is like posting Niagara Falls under the Niagara River. Come on now. Together, McCloud Falls and Burney Falls (just an hour apart) make the best one-two punch for waterfall chasers outside of Yosemite. But unlike Burney Falls, located in a state park that charges an entrance fee, McCloud Falls offers something rare and beautiful: lots of free parking and zero entrance fees. My favorite kind of waterfalls are free. Upper Falls is the least dramatic of the trio. A well-maintained ADA-accessible trail leads to an observation deck perched about 90 feet above the falls. Ironically, the orderly line of people waiting to snap a photo was more thrilling than the waterfall itself. Also, there's something a little odd about looking down on a waterfall. Stupid waterfalls. That said, Upper Falls is the most peaceful and serene, making it perfect for quiet moments of reflection--especially when the water is still. Lower Falls is the more chaotic of the trio, with two lanes of traffic trying to share a narrow one-way road, while kids are sprawled across the banks of a rushing, whitewater river. The area, stocked with trout, feels tailor-made for picnics and day trips--the kind of place where sandwiches taste better for no logical reason. Middle Falls is the showstopper. The money shot. The backdrop of annoying Instagram photo sessions. At 50 feet high and over 100 feet wide, it sends a dramatic curtain of water spilling over a basalt cliff into a pool below, with summer crowds climbing the shoreline boulders and wading into the 42 degree water just to ruin your pictures. I had to edit out so many people, they should call them McPhotoshop Falls. read more
We love Water Falls in California on the quest of exploring all the beauties within. we found the McCloud River in Redding, contains 3 beautiful water falls, although we missed the Burney Falls that's not too far away. One day we will try it. From the east bay, it's about 300 miles north, if we want to see the falls and the lake shasta caverns, we need to sleep over one night because it'd take 5-6 hr to drive. When we get to the McCloud River, there are actual roads to drive to 3 Falls, Lower, Middle and Upper Falls. Each from the parking lot only take a few minutes hike to see the Falls, although we didn't go to the bottom of the upper falls, but we could see some. The lower falls where many people swim, or like us, sit on the rocks to feel the water gushing through rocks very nice. The middle falls, we didn't really hike to the bottom of the falls but stayed where we could see the clear views of the falls. Where people also play with the water. Next time when we visit Burney Falls, we will hike to the bottom of all these falls. Love these falls, love California. read more
We parked at the lower end of the river then made our way to the top. The trail is fairly easy, but a fun one. It's about a 4 mile round trip hike. The water is pristine and nature's landscape is amazing. The restrooms are hideous. Bring a gas mask or stuff some vapor rub up your nostrils! I ain't joking. Bears are known to be present in the area so stay vigilant. read more
During our stay at Dunsmuir several people had mentioned that we just had to see the McCloud waterfalls. So leaving Dunsmuir - and before visiting Mount Shasta - we went north on 5 and then eastbound on 89 to the Falls. The drive was easy and scenic, except for the requisite flagman/road construction on 89. The falls were spectacular! Record snow melt really made them roar! We visited Middle Falls and Lower Falls, driving between each one. If you don't take the trail, you look down on Middle Falls from an overlook - it was the largest of the two we saw and quite amazing. Then we made the short drive to Lower Falls, and here it's easy to walk down a few steps and relax by the falls. Lower Falls is not as spectacular but has its own set of rapids and beauty. Decent sized parking lots were at both locations, although Middle Falls what is a challenge to find a spot even on a weekday late morning. Lower Falls was easier for parking. Both have pit toilets and picnic tables. For lunch, if you are not picnicking, the city of McCloud is a short drive away. read more
I had a blast at McCloud Falls! It was a lot of hiking so keep that in mind when planning to go or inviting people. It was well worth the hike and the water was so refreshing. We went to Lower and Middle Falls, spending the majority of our time at Middle Falls and relaxing in the water. We got to watch people cliff jumping off both falls and enjoyed the beautiful sights of the crystal clear water, greenery surrounding us and soaking up the sun. read more
This review is for the McCloud Upper And Middle Falls which was a ~1.6 mile round trip that took ~45 mins to complete. Due to time constraints, we chose to hike the upper and middle falls only. Beautiful views of the waterfall; middle falls was definitely the better one! We started from the Middle Fall Parking to Upper Falls and then back to Middle Falls. Relatively flat or minimal elevation to Upper Falls. However, decline to the bottom of Middle Falls and back up to the parking lot. Short video of the hike for those interested: https://youtu.be/fBczHEph-II read more
Another epic trip in 2021! While driving up north California, we visited the three McCloud waterfalls - lower, middle and upper falls! They were all close but you still have to drive to each location. We visit visited the lower falls which was popular and the best since it's very close to the parking area but the bathrooms are nasty. You can smell the sewage from outside. Lots of places to put your chair and hang out by the river. There are short hiking trails to take but why when you can hang out by the river and jump off in the large swim hole by the falls. Water was cold but during hot summer months, you won't feel it too bad. The middle falls was very nice too but you have to hike half a mile down to be by the waterfalls. Super pretty! Beware you have to hike back up to go to the parking lot. The upper falls was big but not many hanging out here. We didn't hike down as we got tired already. We should have rented a hotel but the closed was in Redding and they were more like motels. There is not much shade in any of the falls so wear sunscreen, swimming outfit and a hat. It snows here during the winter but I prefer the summer days to visit this place! We will be back! [36th/100] read more
Just as beautiful as it looks in all of those wonderful pictures! Mccloud Falls is nothing short of amazing. I've been wanting to visit these falls for quite some time now, and I'm so glad that I was able to see them in person. Mccloud Falls is located a little over 20 minutes outside of Mount Shasta. There are three waterfalls that make up Mccloud Falls (Upper, Middle, and Lower) with the Middle Falls being the most popular because of its' stellar layout and wondrous views. You can either hike or drive to all three, but they're all pretty busy and parking fills up quickly during peak seasons. I arrived in the evening time and found a spot in the main parking lot for Middle Falls. These falls are FABULOUS! The hike down to Middle Falls and back is short and sweet - maybe less than a mile at most. I had been hiking to different waterfalls all day, so I decided to only hike down to Middle Falls and drive to the other two to save some time. And let me tell you - Middle Falls is where it's at! I completely understand why these falls are the most popular out of three; they're the largest and most dramatic falls. Breathtaking can't really even describe it. It's just absolutely gorgeous! From here, you can actually take a dip in the Mccloud River, but it's much easier to access at Lower Falls. This place is BUSY! I went on Memorial Day weekend, and although it was super hot out, it was still pretty packed. Luckily, there's a lot of room to spread out and enjoy this beauty. I also witnessed several people jumping from the top of the falls into the river. A bit nerve racking to watch, but also pretty entertaining. The Upper and Lower falls are both stunning as well. Upper Falls is more like your traditional waterfall with one main fall that flourishes down from a higher elevation. The Lower Falls is the smallest of the bunch, but it's also the most easily accessible. This is where most people go to actually swim in the river. It's also pretty busy here, but not nearly as busy as Middle Falls. Definitely still worth a visit even on a busy day. I think I lucked out by coming later on in the evening, but I'd suggest coming early or late to secure a decent parking spot and view. read more
2 years ago
If you are looking for a relaxing spot to check out then this is the spot. The McCloud River Middle Falls near McCloud California. Definitely a bucket list spot to see. Easy access and a relatively short hike for a gorgeous view of the falls. read more
Exclusively for DOG OWNERS This is an awesome trail for dogs. It said you have to have dogs on leash for the trails. However, there were plenty off leashed cuties on the trail. I dont mind them at all. But, since this is a popular trail, there might be non dog visitors who will say something. When we were there, the trail was nice and dry. Did not see any unclaimed poop on the the trail nor unattended poop bags laying around. Most importantly no burs! I did not have my Coco with us this time, because like all of us she is a little bit shaggy. And I did not want to deal with plucking burs after a hike. But, she will join us for sure. read more
4 years ago
Wonderful afternoon spent on the McCloud river, located in Shasta-Trinity national forest. It was an oddly overcast and humid summer day when I visited but it actually made the trail pleasant to hike since there was no sun beating down. After visiting, Burney Falls, the drive to this area was about 45 minutes-highly worth it if you're in the area. I followed directions and parked near the Upper Falls area where there is a small lot, pit toilet and a small picnic area. It's a short walk over to the falls themselves and while you can certainly drive to the different falls separately, it's much more fun to hike the trail that runs along the river. It's packed dirt in some areas and paved in others with only one "steepish" (but not hard) section down to Middle Falls. At some points you will be above the river, at others hiking alongside it, but the whole way is nicely shaded and very scenic. All three falls were worth the trip and if you're wanting to swim, both Middle and Lower falls offer access. Near lower falls you will pass through a campground area with restrooms should you need one before heading back. It was a highly enjoyable hike that was scenic and mild. Free parking so you can easily make a day of it with a picnic lunch, a hike and even a swim. Truly a beautiful area. read more
Thursday, 7/09/2010 - McCloud Falls in Redding, CA. Beautiful!! If you stop at upper falls, you can hike to middle falls and the lower falls. Hold your little kids hands if you choose to hike to middle falls. We decided to take the 3 minute drive to middle falls instead. Didn't want our kiddos tumbling down the side of the mountain from upper falls to middle falls. Lol. Kids love to run and jump no matter how narrow the walk way. McCloud Middle Falls was an easy 1 mile hike to the falls. First on paved road, then dirt road that snakes around like theme park ride lines, and there is 1 stair you gotta walk on. Maybe like 40 step stair case. I'm estimating. Still an easy hike to see a beautiful waterfall. It's extremely rocky once you reach the waterfall. When first getting into the cold water, it'll shock your warm body at first entry. But, once you get in and your body adjust to the water temperature, it's ok. We only wet our feet. Didn't actually swim full body at middle falls. It's so beautiful here. We kept all our trash with us. We didn't have much. But if hiking or camping in the woods. Let's all do our part and pick up after ourselves to keep nature clean. It was clean at McCloud Falls. I didn't see trash everywhere. read more
You'll have to walk on snow covered roads before you get on the trails to get to all the falls because it's snowed in. Normally, I think you can drive up to each of the falls. Middle falls is worth it though! Walking on snow takes longer especially since some snow was fresh and the older snow was frozen (more slippery). I'd recommend bringing trekking poles! Middle falls was my favorite! There's a nice trail to hike down to middle falls. There's some snow and ice on the trail so it can be slippery. read more
Oh gosh! This place was magical. I would highly recommend it, especially with family or friends. This is also a dog-friendly area and did not see any dog poop laying around. It is also well kept. I did not see any trash laying around (thank you to everyone doing their part). I did a solo trip to the greater Redding area and came across this area because I was already visiting McArthur Burney State Park (highly recommend). It's less than an hour away and Castle Crag State Park is also super close (you could totally knock it all out in one day). There are no fees you have to pay for parking and there are public restrooms if you are entering through the Lower Falls. The Middle Falls is definitely where it is, especially from the birds-eye view. They have a fenced-off area at the top where you can enjoy watching the waterfalls from above and admire the nature around. I could only imagine how nice it would be during the summer. I definitely will come back to swim in the pools. I came in the early afternoon on a weekend when it was showering and not that many people were there. If you can't do the full 3 miles, I would at least recommend making it to the Middle Falls. It definitely is a picture-perfect background. It's even more beautiful during fall when the colors are changing. The hike is easy for experienced hikers. Most of it is nicely paved and age friendly. A couple of people were fishing throughout. They have a nice picnic area near the Lower Falls as well if you want to have lunch or something. I highly recommend coming. Gorg-- who couldn't complain about seeing THREE waterfalls in one day. read more
While I was in the area I decided to visit this waterfall and I'm am sure glad I did because it was beautiful. I only wish I had more time to explore the area more. I will definitely be back to do that at a later date. read more
3 years ago
This for lower and middle falls. Lower falls is the epic beginners cliff jumping spot. Middle is the advance spot. LOTS of peeps, so if you are VID concerned there is not alot of masks being warn. Water is cold, so be ready. Lower falls is a 20 foot jump. Middle falls is atleat twice that. Lots of parking on road. No parking or entry fees. Lots of bathrooms on trail between middle and lower falls. PRO TIP. Beware the exit (rock climbing) out of lowerfalls water is the most difficult part. Followed by the temp of the water and finally the height of the jump. Middle falls jumping is 30+ feet with a sketchy walk to the main junp spot. Looks like you need to jump out to clear rocks. A little more intense hike to get to water at middle falls then lower falls. Middle fallls far superior looking. read more
WOW, this river has some beautiful watterfalls. Three that we hiked to and saw. They're located in the northern California Sierra mountains while traveling towards Mt. Lassen National Park. We drove to Upper McCloud Falls, a short hike to the falls. Then we continued downstream to the Middle falls (Approximately 1 mile or so) the biggest and most impressive of the three. Then we hiked back to our car, walking along the river trail. We continued down the road to the Lower falls. Here you will be able to pretty much drive right up to the falls (near the parking lot). Here we saw several people jump off the rocks edge into the water below and swam around. I would say that it's probably not more than 30 feet high to the water. No only is it easy to get to, but there are also pinic tables with fixed BBQ's available for your use. It's very peaceful and therapeutic, to just sit and watch/listen to the falls roaring. Also, the fishing is supposed to be pretty good along the McCloud river too!!! read more
Such an awesome place to visit. The falls are divided by upper, middle and lower. I only had time to visit one so we visited the middle. You can park your car and walk a little bit and see the falls up close or you can choose to hike the whole thing which isn't super long from what I heard. I would love to visit again and do the full hike. I suggest if you make a visit here to stop by Burney falls as well. Keep chasing waterfalls! read more
Yes, it's worth the drive. Once you get there all you have to do is park and walk a short distance on an easy flat dirt trail, and there she is. Heaven. It is there, where you'll be encountered by one of the most breathtaking landscapes you will ever see in your life. A calming, rushing steam surrounded by beautiful, tall, green, luscious trees. In that moment you will be blown away. You will feel as though you are meditating without practicing meditation, as though you are defying the odds of gravity. It is truly a remarkable sight. Unfortunately, my family was in a rush so I wasn't able to explore the entire site. But I genuinely recommend it. You know the magnificent forest environments nature channels display on television? McCloud River is exactly that. read more
6 years ago
We visited Middle McCloud Falls only. Parking was free. Only took about 15 min to walk down to the falls. Water is super cold and weather is super hot. Swimming is enjoyable if you're brave enough! No water sink available just a portable toilet and a trash bin. Make sure to carry some hand sanitizer. Gets crowded around 1:00pm read more
Middle Falls --- So accessible. So beautiful. So tempting to swim to the waterfall. So cold. So very cold. So glad we did it. So refreshing. Sooooo can't wait to return with the rest of my family. Lower Falls --- What fun for rock jumping! It was pretty empty when we were there which surprised me for summer. Cold but ...hey...when in Rome! read more
This is an absolutely beautiful spot in Northern California. In early August, I visited both the Lower Falls and the Middle Falls, which are part of the same river system - the McCloud River. There is an Upper Falls too, but I didn't have time to scope that spot out. After visiting the Lower Falls and saw how crowded it was, I decided to visit the Middle Falls. The Middle Falls were not as crowded, probably because you have to do a short hike down the mountain, and there are no amenities (whereas at the Lower Falls there are restrooms and no hike to the swimmable areas). At Middle Falls the hike is a well marked path that zigzags down toward the river. When you get to the path from the parking lot, head right and take that path down. It is a little confusing. But once you are on it, it is straightforward to follow it down to the river bank. The path is about one mile down. When you get to the end of the path there are large boulders that rim the lake that you have to climb over to get to where you swim. Not hard, but you do have to scramble around for your footing. The swimming is amazing - it is clear, deep, and cold cold cold! Oh my god, I could only handle swimming for two minutes at a time! But those two minutes were heaven in 98 degree August weather! The short hike, the sun, the crisp water and the hot summer air makes for a very fun adventure. This is an amazing spot and I highly recommend visiting Middle Falls at McCloud River when you get a chance. You won't be disappointed. read more
McCloud River has three marvelous waterfalls, each within easy walking distance of each other. All the walkers were friendly, but the sole pick up truck cruising around aimlessy scared me. If they started playing dualing banjos, I would have run for it. Then I bet the car wouldn't have started, just like in the movies. To get here from the I-5, drive the 89 to McCloud, then 5 miles past McCloud, slow down when you see the Shasta-Trinity National Forest area sign. Turn right at the Fowlers campground sign, then follow it to the Lower Falls. read more
11 years ago
After visiting nearby McArthur-Burney Falls, we went looking for more falls in the area. There are three falls - Upper, Middle, and Lower. As a simple "chute" falls, Upper Falls is the least interesting. Middle Falls was the prettiest, but still not as attractive as McArthur-Burney Falls. Lower Falls also wasn't much, but is well suited (dare I say swim suited?) as a swimming hole with diving ledge, grotto-like alcove, and sunning rocks. To find the falls, look for signs along Highway 89 for Loop Road or Fowler Campground. The roads were recently smoothly paved with clear signage to each waterfall. There are parking areas with outhouses at each fall. By driving, it took 45 minutes to visit all three falls. For those who have time to walk, there is a trail connecting all three falls (see my map picture). Also looking at the map, I'm not sure how politically correct it is to have a "Nitwit Camp", but that must be a dumb place to go. Part of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, there were no fees for visiting. read more
8 years ago
Got to experience the upper and Middle McCloud Falls. Was time crunched so skipped lower McCloud Falls. Was a bit hard to find as I had no map and there is no service in the area, but luckily didn't get lost! It pays to get here early to get parking and less crowds, came here a bit before noon and upper falls was packed with people. Had a great time climbing rocks and watching the falls! Would definitely come back read more
Came by hoping to snow shoe but this year was a bad year for that due to less snow. The gate by the highway was closed so we had to walk 2 miles in on a paved road to the fork that leads us to middle / upper falls and then the lower falls. Though the walk was flat and paved if you want to see all the falls it'll be about a 6 mile walk vs if you can't dude during the summer and just drive up to each fall. We turned right at the fork to see the lower fall - decently pretty but quite small but you can get pretty close to it. We backtracked and went straight to see the middle and upper falls. Middle falls was huge and gorgeous. Upper falls was another .3 mile or so away - for us it got a bit muddy due to snowmelt. Upper falls was small and not so special - just like lower falls. Overall good exercise but not a must see unless you're around - especially during the summer when you can just drive up read more
11 years ago
McCloud river was a stop on a 2 week camping trip based off the suggestion of a friend. We stopped at the upper falls for a small hike and a dip on the cold snow runoff waters. The parking lot is shaded at the upper falls. We did not stop at the lot for the lower falls. Lots of parking and vault toilet on site by the lot. They were very gross (I am not unaccustomed to vault toilets while camping, this was by far the worst I've seen). There was a really bad fly infestation due to 2 factors. 1 the toilet cover being left up and the door being left closed. I propped the door open to let it air out and hopefully safe the next person from the swarm of flies. Don't let the toilet deter you though! The hike to be able to view the Upper falls is not very far. Paved and accessible to anyone, it is an easy walk. You will be viewing the falls from an upper viewing platform. If you plan on swimming and are not surefooted I advise going to the lower falls. The climb down to the pool is tough, can be dangerous and you risk getting hurt. *Take at your own risk* Despite it being a bit of a climb down and back, it is worth it. The pool is secluded, the water is VERY COLD but refreshing and the current in the upper falls pool is not too strong, but like any unknown swimming hole always be cautious! Safety first and don't swim alone! I will be making a trek back here again next year to bask in the beauty of the area. read more
10 years ago
My review is for the middle Mccloud falls. On my quest to discover waterfalls in California Bunrey Falls and Mccloud were top on my list for falls in the Northern California area! McCloud river is home to three waterfalls; lower, middle and upper falls. We came here at the end of winter after a really good rain in March 2016, and boy did the water do the falls justice!!! We got lost at first because we kept looking for signs for "Mccloud falls", when you see a sign for the "fowlers campground of fowlers falls, this is where you make your turn. The falls are easy to get to. We didn't have time to get to lower and upper middle falls, but I heard middle falls was the best one if you had to visit just one, and I whole heartedly agree!! The parking lot is close and the hiking trail takes about 10 to 15 minutes from the parking lot. Really easy! There's a slight incline when coming back up from the fall, but I would still rate it as easy in the hiking scale. And trust me I'm not an athlete or advanced hiker. During the winter/spring there was still some snow on the trail but not muddy at all, still very dry. Rocks are slippery tho. Right before the trail starts, there is a small viewing area where you can view the top of the falls. Upon arrival of the fall, you get a picturesque view UP FRONT AND CLOSE!!! There are a few rocks to climb if you really, really want to get close but not really necessary. I believe in the summertime people swim in the water. The falls is 10 minutes from McCloud town off highway 89. There is a chevron gas station here. Parking is FREE. You can hear the falls from the parking lot, it's that close. The beauty and power of this falls is indescribable, you really just have to see it in person. I would say this is one of the best waterfalls in the area. read more
14 years ago
16 years ago
Why Go? * Nice gushing year round waterfulls in the middle of summer (better than Yosemite trickle) * Nice short hike that family can do and picnic * Fun to climb on the rocks; walk in the water even thou cold, jump into the waterfall pool Tip: * Lower Falls easiest to reach * Hike from Lower to Middle Falls easy 1.5 miles maybe & paved path * Middle Falls gets rocky near the end so harder to access the pool or get a good pis * Upper Falls you can drive to and you can't get very close but there is an overlook; Drive to upper falls be aware that it is very rocky & filled w/ very large potholes Additional Links: * http://www.gorp.com/parks-guide/travel-ta-shasta-trinity-national-forests-hiking-mccloud-sidwcmdev_055331.html *http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McCloud_River read more
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North St
McCloud, CA 96057
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How's the water level this summer? and where's a good place to lodge that's economical?
Cold and flowing Labor day weekend. Mt Shasta Best Western is $200 per night. Nice place.
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2 years ago
McCloud River - hiking - Updated July 2026
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