McArthur Burney Falls State Park Loop

Hiking in California

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Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.0 miles / 1.6 km
Duration: 1 hour or less

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Overview: Without question Burney Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state. The 129ft waterfall thrills visitors to McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park all year round, even when the California summer has dried up every other waterfall around.

Located in the Cascade mountains, forty miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park the falls are given their longevity by the release of meltwater from porus volcanic rock from the surrounding mountains.

Two large streams cascade from the top of the falls and are accompanied by curtains of water fed from underground streams, creating a unique and grand appearance to the waterfall.

Our one mile journey loops around the falls in a clockwise direction, beginning with an overlook from above the waterfall and descending into the valley towards the foot of the attraction. With the falls hidden from view for much of the trail, we can focus on the interpretive signs on the nature trail and enjoy the shade that the park's greenery provides.

The crescendo of the trail reaches its peak at the bottom of Burney Falls where you can experience the force nature from up close. The return journey is along a short set of switchbacks which afford even more views of the falls.

Elevation gain:
• Approx 250ft (from 2,750 - 2,900ft)

Tips: • Seasons: Open all year, though the region has a long winter season so plan accordingly.
• Contact: Park rangers are available at (530) 335-2777.
• Nearby: Lassen Volcanic National Park is close by and Burney falls is a great way to add even more variety to a Lassen visit.
• Nearby: Subway Caves is an unmissable short hike located on state route 89 between Burney Falls and Lassen.

Points of Interest

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Trailhead & Viewpoint

Enter the park via the main entrance, just off state route 89 and six miles north of the 89/299 junction.

Our route begins at the not-to-be-missed Burney Falls overlook just to the West of the main parking lot. From here you can marvel at the size and unusual features of the waterfall, which framed by trees, makes for a perfect picture-postcard photograph.

The guide traces a clockwise journey from the overlook, over the stream behind the falls and gently descending to the valley floor.

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Junction

The single track trail breaks off from the road at this point, heading towards the bridge which transports you across Burney Creek where you'll likely find fishermen in search of their prey.

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PCT Junction

Bear right at this junction, heading in the opposite direction from the Pacific Crest Trail.

We recommend taking the time to read the interpretive signs on this short nature trail, which provides interesting insights into the local flora.

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Hidden Overlook

Although you've definitely been able to hear it, you haven't seen the waterfall since you started this hike. This hidden overlook provides an obstructed view of the falls and a promise of even better views to come.

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Rainbow Bridge

Once the trail reaches the bottom of the valley, navigate towards the rainbow bridge and head over Burney Creek. From here, turn right and follow the stream south towards the foot of Burney Falls.

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Burney Falls

Called the "eighth wonder of the world" by former President Teddy Roosevelt, you can find your own superlatives as you conclude your upstream walk to Burney Falls.

Fed by the copious amounts of water from the snow covered mountains, the stream at the top of the falls crashes 129 vertical feet into the blue pools in front of you. Underground streams also flow through the volcanic rock to emerge at the cliff-face, creating majestic curtains of even more free flowing water.

Your hike concludes with a short uphill switchback out of the valley, which is broken up with even more great views of the waterfalls.