Overview
The McCloud River is one of northern California's most treasured waterways: a spring-fed tributary of the Sacramento River that runs cold, clear, and largely free of development through the heart of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The Falls Trail connects three distinct waterfalls along the river's upper canyon in a 3.7-mile walk that stays close to the water throughout, moving through riparian forest with views down to the river and up to the forested ridges above.
The trail's accessibility is part of its appeal. Lower Falls is reached within the first 0.5 miles from the main parking area, which means visitors who want only the swimming hole have a short walk and can call it a day. Those who continue find Middle Falls and Upper Falls in the next three miles, each with a distinct character. The trail gains only 300 feet over its full length, making it one of the flatter substantial river walks in the region.
This is a trail with significant summer crowds, particularly at Lower Falls on weekends. Arriving before 10am or visiting on weekday mornings substantially improves the experience at the swimming hole. The upper falls see far fewer visitors and feel like a different trail entirely. Before visiting, check current conditions for any seasonal closures or fire restrictions affecting the McCloud area. The Leave No Trace guide is worth reviewing for canyon riparian environments where vegetation recovery from off-trail travel is slow.
The Route
Miles 0 to 0.5: Lower Falls
From the parking area at Fowlers Camp Road, the trail follows a paved path to the Lower Falls viewpoint and swimming area. Lower Falls drops roughly 15 feet across a wide rock face into a deep pool. In summer, the pool is popular for swimming, though the water stays cold year-round thanks to the spring sources feeding the McCloud. The viewpoint platform provides good photographs of the falls. Continuing upstream, the trail transitions from paved to packed dirt.
Miles 0.5 to 1.9: Forest Trail to Middle Falls
The trail moves through mixed conifer and riparian forest, alternating between views of the river below and shaded forest walking. Some sections travel on benches above the river with narrow trails and moderate exposure. Middle Falls appears at roughly mile 1.9, dropping in a wide curtain of water against a curved rock face. There is no large pool here, but the visual drama of the falls against the dark volcanic rock is striking. A viewpoint bench sits near the falls.
Miles 1.9 to 3.7: Upper Falls and Return
From Middle Falls, the trail continues upstream through increasingly quiet forest to Upper Falls at the turnaround. Upper Falls is smaller than the other two but set in a more intimate canyon with good light in the morning. Few hikers reach this point compared to Lower Falls. Return the same route, which offers different perspectives on the canyon from the return direction.
When to Visit
April through October covers the practical season. The McCloud River's spring-fed nature means the falls run year-round, and even winter visits on dry days are possible for Lower Falls. Summer weekends bring heavy crowds to the Lower Falls area. Weekday mornings in May, June, September, and October offer the best combination of good conditions and manageable visitor numbers.
Water levels in the falls are highest from April through June and taper through late summer, though the spring-fed nature of the river keeps flows more consistent than snowmelt-dependent streams. Fire conditions in late summer (August-September) may restrict access to some trailhead areas; verify before visiting.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel if planning to swim at Lower Falls.
- Water shoes for the swimming area rocks.
- Sunscreen: the pool area is exposed and sun can be intense in summer.
- Many hikers carry 1-1.5 liters of water for this length; individual needs vary. The river is cold and clear but should be treated before drinking.
- Camera: all three falls reward photography.
- Layers: temperatures in the canyon vary from the open pool area to the shaded forest sections.
Practical Details
A day use fee of $5 per vehicle applies at the Lower Falls parking area as of 2026. No permit is required. Vault restrooms are at the trailhead. The trail is a day hike; no overnight camping at the falls area. Dogs must be leashed.
Fires are prohibited near the river corridor. California campfire permit rules apply in the surrounding forest. Check current fire restrictions at the McCloud Ranger District office or fs.usda.gov/stnf.
Getting There
From McCloud, drive south on Squaw Valley Road (which becomes Fowlers Camp Road) approximately 5 miles. The signed Lower Falls parking area is on the right. From Redding, take Interstate 5 north to the McCloud exit (approximately 55 miles), then east on Highway 89 to McCloud, then south on the forest road.
From Mount Shasta City, drive east on Highway 89 approximately 10 miles to McCloud, then south on Fowlers Camp Road to the trailhead.