Burney Man!

Hiking to Burney Falls in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

10.13.2016

Upon first seeing Burney Falls, President Theodore Roosevelt called it one of the wonders of the world: a 129-foot waterfall gushing 100 million gallons every single day. This baby absolutely thunders! Whitewater and mist kick out around its base as water from Burney Creek drops over a basalt cliff face. Winter and spring bring more water, and autumn brings an added splash of fall colors. Make an easy 1.2-mile hike around Falls Loop Trail. If visiting on a weekend, time your visit for early or late in the day to avoid crowds (this place is always popular). Another tip: Visit when it rains—that always keeps people away.

The short walk wastes no time getting to its marquee attraction; you’re immediately privy to a tremendous view of Burney. Follow the gentle switchback down to the base of the falls, where mist wets your cheeks. Stroll a few minutes downstream and cross over Rainbow Bridge, then back up on the west side of the falls. Feel the Burney!

From Redding, drive 50 miles east on Hwy. 299 to the town of Burney. Continue another 5 miles east to Hwy. 89 and turn left (north). Drive 5.5 miles to the park entrance. Park in the main lot by the visitor center and follow the Falls Loop trail. Burney Falls is in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

    View

  2. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  3. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View

  3. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View