Are you a nature lover looking for a new adventure? Look no further than Northern California! This region is home to some of the most breathtaking hikes with stunning waterfalls that will take your breath away. From the towering cascades of Yosemite National Park to the hidden gems of the North Bay, Northern California is a hiker's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's a Trail for you.

So, pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Northern California. In this article, we'll take you on a journey to explore the top Northern California hikes with stunning waterfalls near you. Get ready to be amazed by the beauty of nature and find your next adventure.

The Best Waterfall Hikes in Northern California

Hike #1: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Located in Shasta County, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is home to the stunning Burney Falls. This waterfall is 129 feet tall and is known as the "eighth wonder of the world". The hike to Burney Falls is a 1.3-mile loop trail that is suitable for all skill levels. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the waterfall from multiple angles. The park also offers camping and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Hike #2: Alamere Falls

The Alamere Falls Trail is located in Point Reyes National Seashore and offers stunning views of a waterfall that falls directly onto the beach. The hike is a 13.4-mile out-and-back trail that is rated as moderate. The trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Marin coastline. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, making it a great place to spend a day. Keep in mind this trail is not a park-sanctioned trail and is not maintained and poses hazards to off-trail hikers.

Hike #3: Feather Falls Scenic Trail

Located in Oroville, the Feather Falls Scenic Trail is a 8.3-mile out-and-back trail that offers stunning views of Feather Falls. The waterfall is 410 feet tall and is one of the tallest in California. The trail is well-maintained and is suitable for all skill levels. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.

Hike #4: McWay Falls Trail

Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, the McWay Falls Trail is a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail that offers stunning views of McWay Falls. The waterfall is 80 feet tall and falls directly onto the beach. The trail is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all skill levels. The park also offers camping and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Hike #5: Whiskeytown Falls Trail

Located in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, the Whiskeytown Falls Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back trail that offers stunning views of Whiskeytown Falls. The waterfall is 220 feet tall and is surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail is well-maintained and is suitable for all skill levels. The park also offers camping and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Another beautiful waterfall trail in the same area is Crystal Creek Falls, a short 0.5 mile trail that is paved, flat and assessible.

Top Waterfalls to camp near in Northern California

McArthur-Burney Falls

McArthur-Burney Falls is located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, which is about 60 miles northeast of Redding. The waterfall is 129 feet tall and is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in California. The park has two campgrounds: the Burney Falls Campground and the Rim Campground. Both campgrounds have access to the waterfall and are surrounded by beautiful forest. The famous Pacific Crest Trail also goes through this area.

Feather Falls

Feather Falls is located in the Plumas National Forest, about 130 miles northeast of Sacramento. The waterfall is 410 feet tall and is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern California. The Feather Falls Trail is a 8.2-mile round trip hike that takes you to the waterfall. There are several camping options in the Plumas National Forest, including the Feather Falls Scenic Area Campground and the Ponderosa Flat Campground.

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is located in Yosemite National Park, about 200 miles east of San Francisco. The waterfall is 2,425 feet tall and is the highest waterfall in North America. There are several campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, including the Upper Pines Campground, the Lower Pines Campground, and the North Pines Campground. All of these campgrounds are within walking distance of Yosemite Falls.

Northern California is a hiker's paradise, and these five waterfall hikes are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's a trail for you. Hiking with waterfalls is a unique and rewarding experience that offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. Before embarking on any hike, be sure to research the trail and take the necessary safety precautions. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that Northern California has to offer. So pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Northern California.