01
Best overall pick
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Highway 89 North Of Burney • Waterfall-Focused State Park With Forest Trails • Iconic First-Time Stop
Short, well-marked trails wrap around one of California’s most photogenic waterfalls and a shady forested canyon.
If you only have time for one hike near Burney, make it the Burney Falls loop and nearby viewpoint trails in this compact state park. The main loop is short but packs in the overlook, the cool mist at the base of the falls, and a stretch along Burney Creek. Add the Rim Trail or spur paths toward Lake Britton if you want a bit more mileage without straying far from the car.
02
Big climb, big views
Burney Mountain Trail
Lassen National Forest South Of Burney • Steep Volcanic Peak Trail • Best For Strong Hikers And Big Views
A stout climb up Burney Mountain rewards you with sweeping vistas of Mount Shasta, Lassen Peak, and the surrounding forested plateaus.
Reaching the trailhead involves a stretch of rough forest road, but the payoff is a classic summit-style hike that feels wild yet close to town. The trail gains steadily through mixed forest before breaking onto more open slopes near the top, where fire lookouts and ridges frame huge views in every direction. Go on a clear, snow-free day, start early for cooler temperatures, and bring extra water—there’s no shade once you hit the upper ridge.
03
Best rim walk
Hat Creek Rim – Pacific Crest Trail Segment
Hat Creek Valley Southwest Of Burney • Open Rim And Long-Distance Trail • Best For Wide-Open Vistas And Sunsets
This Pacific Crest Trail segment traces the edge of Hat Creek Rim, offering big skies, lava cliffs, and distant volcano views.
Pick up the PCT near Hat Creek Rim overlook or a nearby access point and walk as far as you like along the rim before turning around. The tread is generally gentle, but the terrain is exposed, with long views toward Mount Shasta, Lassen Peak, and the Hat Creek Valley below. It’s stunning late in the day, though the lack of water and shade means you’ll want sun protection and a solid headlamp if you linger for sunset.
04
Relaxed creekside option
Lower Hat Creek Trail
Hat Creek And Old Station Area • Shaded Creekside Path • Laid-Back Half-Day Outing
A mostly level path follows clear, cold Hat Creek through pines and lava rock, ideal for an easy walk or family outing.
Lower Hat Creek Trail trades big views for cool air and the sound of water, making it a welcome choice on hot summer afternoons. The route stays close to the creek, with side spots where anglers cast for trout and kids can explore small eddies and rock outcrops. Expect a casual out-and-back rather than a loop, and pack bug spray—mosquitoes like the shady banks as much as hikers do.
05
Easy lakeside loop
Baum Lake Trails at Cassel
Cassel Area East Of Burney • Lakeshore And Wetland Paths • Quiet Nature And Birding Pick
Short paths circle Baum Lake and nearby ponds, mixing gentle walking with excellent birdwatching and calm water views.
Just a short drive from Burney, Baum Lake offers mellow walking on old roads and footpaths that trace the shoreline and nearby wetlands. It’s flat, open to all ages, and a good place to spot ospreys, waterfowl, and the occasional otter working the edges of the lake. Bring binoculars, plan time for a picnic, and use this area as a low-key alternative when wind, smoke, or snow make higher trails less appealing.