Easy Cali

There’s something about waterfalls that speaks to our souls. Maybe it’s the thundering sound of water crashing over ancient rocks, or the cool mist that brushes your face as you approach. Either way, California’s diverse landscape offers some of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in the country—from towering cascades plunging hundreds of feet to gentle streams trickling over moss-covered stones.

As someone who’s spent countless weekends chasing waterfalls across the Golden State, I’ve compiled this guide to help you experience these natural wonders yourself. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and let’s explore California’s most breathtaking waterfall trails together!

My Unexpected Encounter at Alamere Falls

Before diving into our list, I want to share a quick story from my trip to Alamere Falls last spring. After a long, winding hike through the Point Reyes National Seashore, my friend Jake and I finally reached the cliff edge where Alamere Falls tumbles directly onto the beach below—one of California’s rare “tidefall” waterfalls.

As we carefully made our way down the steep path to the beach, we noticed an older gentleman sitting quietly on a rock, sketching the falls with remarkable detail. Curious, we struck up a conversation and learned he was a local artist who had been visiting this spot every spring for over 40 years, documenting the subtle changes in the falls and surrounding landscape.

“The water volume changes every year,” he told us, “but what really gets me is how the light hits differently each time. Nature never repeats herself exactly.”

He showed us sketches from the 1980s alongside his current work—a visual timeline of one of California’s most beautiful spots. Before we parted ways, he pointed out a small trail we would have missed, leading to a perfect viewpoint for photos.

That unexpected encounter reminded me why I love these hikes so much—it’s not just about the destinations, but the unique moments and connections you make along the way.

The Top Waterfall Hikes in California

1. Yosemite Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 7.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet
Best Time to Visit: Late spring (April-June)

Yosemite Falls isn’t just any waterfall—it’s North America’s tallest waterfall, dropping a dramatic 2,425 feet in three distinct sections. The hike to Upper Yosemite Falls offers some of the most iconic views in the park, and trust me, those switchbacks will give your legs a serious workout!

What makes this hike special is that you’ll experience both stunning panoramic valley views AND get up close to the powerful upper falls. About 1 mile in, you’ll reach Columbia Rock, which offers a perfect rest spot with incredible valley views. Many hikers turn around here, but I strongly encourage pushing on to experience the full majesty of the falls.

Pro tip: Start early! Like, really early. The trail gets crowded by mid-morning, and summer temperatures on this exposed trail can reach well into the 90s. I’ve started this hike at sunrise and never regretted the early alarm.

2. McWay Falls Trail, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Not all great waterfall hikes require intense exertion! The short walk to McWay Falls offers one of California’s most photographed coastal scenes—an 80-foot waterfall that pours directly onto a pristine beach in a secluded cove.

Located along the spectacular Big Sur coastline, this easy trail is more of a scenic viewpoint walk than a hike. But don’t let the brevity fool you—what it lacks in distance, it makes up for in jaw-dropping beauty. The juxtaposition of the turquoise waters, golden sand, and flowing waterfall creates a scene that looks straight out of a tropical paradise.

Important note: While the waterfall is visible from the trail, access to the beach itself is prohibited both for safety reasons and to protect the fragile environment.

3. Burney Falls Loop Trail, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1 mile loop
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall

When President Theodore Roosevelt called Burney Falls the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” he wasn’t exaggerating. This 129-foot cascade isn’t just impressive for its height—what makes Burney truly special is how the water emerges from the middle of a cliff face, creating a uniquely wide, misty curtain of water.

The short loop trail takes you from the top viewpoint down to the pool at the base of the falls, where you’ll feel the cool mist on your face—a welcome relief during hot summer months! The deep blue pool at the base reflects the surrounding forest in a way that almost doesn’t look real.

What many visitors don’t realize is that much of the water comes from underground springs in the porous volcanic rock, which means Burney Falls maintains a strong flow even during California’s dry summers when other waterfalls have slowed to a trickle. That makes this a reliable year-round destination!

4. Alamere Falls Trail, Point Reyes National Seashore

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,335 feet
Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring after rainfall

Remember my story from earlier? Alamere Falls is one of California’s most unique waterfalls because it’s a “tidefall”—a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean. The hike takes you through diverse coastal ecosystems, from mixed woodlands to coastal scrub, with stunning ocean views throughout.

The trail follows the Coast Trail from the Palomarin Trailhead, passing by Bass Lake and Pelican Lake before reaching the unmarked spur trail that leads to the falls. The final descent to the beach can be slippery and requires careful footing, but the reward is worth it: a 40-foot waterfall cascading directly onto the beach, where waves crash just feet away.

Be prepared for crowds on weekends—this Instagram-famous spot has gained tremendous popularity in recent years. If possible, visit on a weekday or start very early to enjoy some solitude.

5. Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: 7 miles round trip (to both falls)
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer

The Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls isn’t just a hike—it’s an experience that engages all your senses. This iconic Yosemite trail earned its name honestly; during peak flow, the mist from 317-foot Vernal Falls is so intense that hikers get completely soaked on the stone staircase alongside it.

While many hikers turn around after Vernal Falls (a respectable 3-mile round trip), continuing to the 594-foot Nevada Falls rewards you with even more spectacular views. The section between the two falls offers a brief reprieve from the climbing before the trail steepens again.

The hike can be done as an out-and-back on the Mist Trail, but I prefer making it a loop by returning via the John Muir Trail, which offers different perspectives of Nevada Falls and panoramic valley views.

One word of caution: the stone steps get extremely slippery when wet, and the trail lives up to its name in spring when snowmelt is at its peak. Wear shoes with good traction and consider bringing a lightweight rain jacket, even on sunny days!

6. Escondido Falls Trail, Malibu

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring after rainfall

Southern California hikers, rejoice! You don’t need to drive all the way to the Sierra Nevada to experience a magnificent waterfall. Escondido Falls in Malibu is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Santa Monica Mountains, with a total drop of 150 feet across three tiers.

The hike begins rather unceremoniously along Winding Way, a paved road through an upscale Malibu neighborhood. But once you reach the natural trail, you’re transported into a surprisingly lush woodland that feels worlds away from nearby Los Angeles.

The lower falls are easily accessible and beautiful in their own right, with water flowing over moss-covered rocks. The upper falls require a more challenging, steep scramble that can be slippery and is not officially maintained—attempt this section only if you’re comfortable with more difficult terrain and using your hands to climb.

This waterfall is highly seasonal and is most impressive after significant rainfall. During drought years or late summer, it may slow to a trickle or dry up completely, so plan your visit accordingly!

7. Mossbrae Falls Trail, Dunsmuir

Difficulty: Easy (but note access issues below)
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Best Time to Visit: Year-round

One of Northern California’s most unique and picturesque waterfalls, Mossbrae Falls appears as a wide curtain of water emerging from a fern-covered hillside, creating countless ribbon-like cascades that span 175 feet wide along the Sacramento River.

The falls themselves are absolutely magical—a series of spring-fed streams that seem to materialize out of the lush vegetation, creating a scene that feels like it belongs in a fairy tale rather than just a few hours north of Sacramento.

Important Access Note: The traditional access route requires walking along active railroad tracks, which is both illegal (trespassing on Union Pacific property) and dangerous. Local authorities and hiking organizations are working on developing a safe, legal trail to the falls, but until then, visitors should research current access information. Some visitors now access the falls via a longer route through the Mount Shasta Resort with proper permission.

If you do visit once proper access is established, the best viewing spot is from across the river, where you can take in the entire width of this unique waterfall.

8. Feather Falls Loop Trail, Plumas National Forest

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7-9 miles round trip (depending on route)
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer

Often overlooked in favor of more famous California waterfalls, Feather Falls is actually the sixth-highest waterfall in the United States, plunging 640 feet into the Fall River. The hike takes you through beautiful oak and pine forests before reaching a viewing platform that offers spectacular views of the falls and the surrounding Plumas National Forest.

There are two trail options forming a loop: the shorter, steeper route (about 3.5 miles one way) or a longer, more gradual path (about 4.5 miles one way). I recommend taking the longer route on the way in when you have more energy, and returning via the shorter, steeper trail.

The observation deck at the falls is one of the best-designed viewing platforms I’ve seen, extending out over the canyon for unobstructed views that let you appreciate the full height of this magnificent waterfall. On hot days, the mist from the falls provides welcome natural air conditioning!

The trail was affected by wildfires in recent years, so check current conditions before your visit. The Forest Service has been working on restoration efforts, and the viewing platform has been rebuilt.

Tips for Waterfall Hiking in California

Timing Is Everything

California’s Mediterranean climate means most waterfalls are seasonal, with peak flow typically occurring from late winter through spring (February to June) when snowmelt and rainfall are highest. By late summer and fall, many falls reduce to a trickle or dry up completely, with exceptions like Burney Falls that are spring-fed.

If chasing waterfalls is your primary goal, plan your California adventures for spring when the display is most impressive. However, popular trails like those in Yosemite will also be at their most crowded during this peak season.

Safety First

Waterfalls are beautiful but can be dangerous. Each year, visitors are injured or worse when they underestimate the power of moving water or the slipperiness of wet rocks. Remember these key safety tips:

• Never climb on or around waterfall rocks—they’re extremely slippery
• Stay on designated trails and behind safety railings where provided
• Be extremely cautious about swimming in pools at the base of waterfalls—strong currents and cold water can be hazardous
• Watch children closely near water features
• Be prepared for wet, slippery conditions on trails close to waterfalls

Pack Like a Pro

For the best waterfall hiking experience, consider bringing:

• Waterproof hiking boots with good traction
• Trekking poles for stability on slippery sections
• A waterproof case for your phone/camera
• Quick-dry clothing (you WILL get wet on some of these trails!)
• Extra socks (trust me on this one)
• A quality waterproof daypack to keep your essentials dry
• Polarizing filter for your camera to reduce glare and capture those vibrant colors

Photography Tips

Waterfalls are challenging but rewarding photography subjects. To capture them at their best:

• Visit early morning or late afternoon when direct sunlight won’t create harsh contrast
• Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors
• For that silky water effect, use a slow shutter speed (1/15 second or slower)
• Bring a tripod for long exposures
• Protect your gear from spray with appropriate covers
• Include people or objects in some shots to convey scale

Conservation and Responsible Hiking

Many of California’s most beautiful waterfall trails have seen dramatically increased visitation in recent years, partly due to social media exposure. This popularity comes with environmental challenges—erosion, trampling of vegetation, and increased litter.

As we enjoy these natural wonders, let’s commit to preserving them:

• Stay on designated trails
• Pack out all trash (including fruit peels and other “biodegradable” items)
• Respect trail closures and private property boundaries
• Avoid creating “social trails” that cause erosion
• Consider visiting lesser-known waterfalls to reduce impact on popular sites
• Support organizations working to maintain these trails, like the Pacific Crest Trail Association or the Yosemite Conservancy

When Waterfalls Run Dry: Drought and Climate Change

It’s impossible to write about California waterfalls without acknowledging the impact of climate change and recurrent drought conditions. Many of the state’s waterfalls are fed by snowmelt, and as the Sierra Nevada snowpack diminishes, so does the longevity and volume of these natural features.

In recent drought years, falls that typically run until July dried up by May. Before planning your trip, check recent rainfall data and visitor reports to avoid disappointment. The California Department of Water Resources website provides regular updates on precipitation and snowpack levels throughout the state.

Even during drought years, winter and early spring visits will generally provide the best waterfall viewing opportunities.

Beyond the Famous Falls: Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

While Yosemite’s waterfalls get most of the attention (and for good reason!), California has hundreds of less-known cascades worth seeking out. Here are a few under-the-radar recommendations for the adventurous waterfall enthusiast:

• Black Rock Falls, Uvas Canyon County Park: A series of picturesque cascades in a redwood forest just an hour from San Jose
• Phantom Falls, North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve: A seasonal 164-foot waterfall that flows dramatically over volcanic formations near Oroville
• Salmon Creek Falls, Big Sur: A 120-foot waterfall accessed via a short hike, less visited than nearby McWay Falls
• Fish Canyon Falls, Angeles National Forest: A restored trail leads to a 80-foot three-tiered waterfall near Los Angeles

Final Thoughts: The Healing Power of Falling Water

There’s a reason humans are drawn to waterfalls. The negative ions released by moving water are believed to boost serotonin levels, counteracting depression and stress. In Japan, “forest bathing” near waterfalls is prescribed as legitimate therapy—and anyone who’s stood in the presence of a great waterfall can understand why.

In our hyperconnected world of screens and notifications, these natural wonders offer something increasingly rare: a multisensory experience that pulls us fully into the present moment. The sight of water dancing over ancient rock formations, the thunderous sound drowning out all other noise, the feel of mist on your skin, even the distinct earthy smell of a waterfall environment—all combine to create a form of natural meditation.

So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, consider prescribing yourself a waterfall hike. California’s diverse landscape ensures there’s a cascade experience for every fitness level and schedule. Whether you’re standing in the thunderous mist of Yosemite Falls or watching the subtle ribbons of Mossbrae Falls, you’ll return with more than just photos—you’ll carry a renewed sense of wonder at our state’s natural beauty.

What’s your favorite California waterfall hike? Have you visited any on this list or discovered hidden gems I should add to my bucket list? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your adventures!

Remember to check trail conditions, permit requirements, and weather forecasts before heading out. Happy hiking!