01
Best quick waterfall escape
Potem Falls Trail
Pit River Canyon North Of Montgomery Creek • Short, Shaded Waterfall Walk • Easy Outing With A Big Payoff
A half-mile stroll drops you into a cool gorge with one of the region’s most photogenic waterfalls and a deep swimming hole.
From a small pullout above the Pit River, a steep but brief trail zigzags down to the base of Potem Falls, where mist cools the air even on hot summer days. Expect a bit of loose footing on the way down and back up, but the emerald pool, sheer rock walls, and 70-foot curtain of water make it well worth the effort. Go early or on weekdays if you want a quieter experience at the pool.
02
Hidden local gem
Clover Creek Falls
Backroads Between Oak Run And Whitmore • Unmarked Forest Path To A Seasonal Cascade • Best For Adventurous Explorers
A rough track through pine and oak forest leads to a mossy slot where Clover Creek spills over dark basalt ledges.
Reaching Clover Creek Falls feels more like a local adventure than a signed park hike, with narrow roads and an informal path cutting through quiet timberland. In a good spring, the falls fan out over volcanic rock and collect in a small pool framed by ferns and bright green moss. Come with a map or offline navigation, wear sturdy shoes for uneven ground, and time your visit for late winter through spring when water flow is strongest.
03
Best shady summer hike
Brandy Creek Falls Trail
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area West Of Redding • Forest Canyon Trail With Multiple Cascades • Cool-Down Pick On Hot Days
A steady climb through mixed forest follows Brandy Creek past bouldery pools to a beautiful tiered waterfall.
This trail starts from the upper Brandy Creek area and works its way up a narrow, shaded canyon, crossing footbridges and side streams as it climbs. The grade is moderate but consistent, making it a satisfying workout with the reward of cool spray and polished granite at the falls. In summer, combine the hike with a dip in Whiskeytown Lake, and in shoulder seasons bring layers because the canyon air can stay surprisingly cool.
04
Most dramatic waterfall
Burney Falls Loop Trail
Mcarthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park • Short Loop At A Big-Volume Volcanic Spring Fall • Iconic Day Trip From Oak Run
A mix of paved and dirt path circles one of Northern California’s most powerful spring-fed waterfalls, with viewpoints from above and below.
From the main overlook, the loop drops down to the base of Burney Falls, where thousands of gallons of cold spring water pour from both the cliff top and the porous rock face. The trail then traces the creek through cool forest before looping back toward the rim, offering changing angles on the falls and the turquoise plunge pool. Expect crowds on weekends and summer afternoons, so aim for early morning or an off-season weekday to enjoy quieter views and easier parking.
05
Big summit adventure
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park High Country • Rocky Alpine Climb On A Historic Volcano • Best For Experienced Day Hikers
A steep, switchbacking trail climbs above tree line to sweeping views from Lassen Peak’s 10,457-foot summit.
Starting from a high trailhead off the park highway, this route wastes no time gaining elevation as it zigzags across cinder and talus slopes. The air thins quickly, but each turn opens wider views of the surrounding lava domes, distant Sierra peaks, and the blue patchwork of northern California lakes. Snow can linger well into summer, so check conditions, carry extra layers and sun protection, and plan an early start to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and crowds.