01
Classic waterfall stop
Potem Falls Trail
Fenders Ferry Road Corridor • Short Waterfall Hike • Best Easy Outing
A brief, shady walk drops you into a hidden canyon and the mist of a tall waterfall pouring into a deep pool.
From Round Mountain, Potem Falls is one of the quickest ways to get that classic Shasta‑area waterfall experience without a big hike. The trail itself is steep but short, making the payoff feel almost instant when the falls come into view. Expect a rough access road and a bit of a climb back out, but the cool air and swimming hole at the bottom are worth it.
02
Local swimming hole hike
Hatchet Falls (Lion Slide Falls)
Montgomery Creek Area • Swim‑Friendly Waterfall Trail • Best Summer Cool‑Down
A quick forest walk leads to tiered falls, emerald pools, and smooth rocks where locals linger on hot days.
Known both as Hatchet Falls and Lion Slide, this spot combines a short approach with a surprisingly wild feel. The trail follows the creek into a small gorge where cascades spill into a deep green pool, popular for careful cliff‑jumping and wading when flows are reasonable. Go early or on weekdays if you want a quieter scene, and always gauge water conditions before getting in.
03
Scenic rail‑trail wander
Great Shasta Rail Trail
Near Burney • Long Forest Rail‑Trail • Best For Long Walks
A converted rail bed offers mellow grades through pine forest, lava rock cuts, and open views, ideal for unhurried miles on foot.
The Great Shasta Rail Trail is perfect when you want distance without steep climbs or technical footing. Choose a shorter out‑and‑back from one of the trailheads near Burney, or commit to a longer walk where the old railroad grade slices through rock walls and crosses wide forest flats. It’s exposed in stretches, so bring sun protection and plenty of water, especially in summer.
04
Iconic waterfall loop
Burney Falls Loop Trail
Mcarthur–Burney Falls State Park • State‑Park Waterfall Loop • Scenic Family Favorite
A short loop circles one of Northern California’s most photographed waterfalls, with cool canyon air and river views.
Even with its fame, Burney Falls is worth the drive from Round Mountain, especially if you time your visit for early morning or shoulder seasons. The loop trail drops to the base of the falls, where multiple springs burst from the cliff and create a wide curtain of water, then follows the creek downstream before climbing back to the overlooks. Paved sections, good signage, and amenities make it a straightforward outing for mixed‑ability groups.
05
Big‑view ridge hike
Chamise Peak Trail
North Of Redding • Ridge Summit Day Hike • Best For Wide‑Open Views
A steady climb along a brushy ridge ends on a rocky knob with sweeping views of Mount Shasta, Lassen, and the Sacramento River.
When you want more of a workout and a panorama to match, Chamise Peak is a strong pick within reach of Round Mountain. The singletrack switchbacks up through chaparral and scattered pines, gaining elevation gradually enough for most fit hikers while still feeling like a true summit. Aim for clear days in spring or fall for the best visibility and more forgiving temperatures on the exposed ridgeline.