Picture this: You’re walking through a lush forest, the sound of rushing water growing louder with every step. Suddenly, the trees open up to reveal a 129-foot curtain of cascading water, tumbling down mossy volcanic rock like something out of a fantasy movie. Mist fills the air, sunlight catches the spray, and for a second, you wonder if you’ve just stepped into a secret paradise.
Welcome to one of California’s most breathtaking natural wonders, a waterfall so stunning that even Teddy Roosevelt once called it the Eighth Wonder of the World. Located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, about 60 miles northeast of Redding, this spot is the kind of place that makes you stop and just stare.
So, What’s the Deal With This Place?
Unlike your typical waterfall that relies on seasonal rain, this one is fed by underground springs—meaning it flows at a powerful 100 million gallons per day, year-round. Even in the dead of summer, when most waterfalls in California have dried up, this one keeps going, roaring at full force.
Surrounded by towering pines and rich volcanic rock formations, the entire area feels like a hidden oasis. The best part? It’s super accessible, with an easy trail leading to an up-close view of the falls.
Things to Do Besides Standing There in Awe 🤩
- Hike the Falls Loop Trail: A short but epic 1.3-mile trail that gives you multiple jaw-dropping views.
- Explore even more trails: If you’re up for a longer trek, check out the Pacific Crest Trail or the Rim Trail for extra scenic beauty.
- Camp overnight: The park offers campgrounds, cabins, and even a general store, so you can turn this into a full-on adventure.
- Check out Lake Britton: Just a few minutes away, this lake is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
- Spot wildlife: Keep an eye out for black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and even black bears (from a safe distance, obviously).
Pro Tips for First-Timers
✅ Arrive early: This place gets busy, especially on weekends. Parking fills up fast.
✅ Dress in layers: The mist from the falls makes the area 10-15 degrees cooler than the rest of the park.
✅ Parking is $10: Bring cash or a card.
✅ Swimming? Nope. The water is freezing and the current is stronger than it looks. Stick to designated swimming areas at Lake Britton.
This is one of those spots that doesn’t just look good in photos—it’s even better in real life. So, if you’re looking for a bucket-list-worthy escape into nature, this is it.
