Hikes in California with Waterfalls
List · 10 items

Hikes in California with Waterfalls

TheAthleteTheAthlete
10 items
List

Hikes in California with Waterfalls

TheAthlete
@TheAthlete
10Items

10 picks in “Hikes in California with Waterfalls”, curated by TheAthlete on TheLysts.

The list

Rank
Hikes in California with Waterfalls — 10 items
NameHike NameLocationDistance & DifficultyWaterfall HighlightsBest Time to VisitPro Tips
1Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada FallsMist Trail to Vernal and Nevada FallsYosemite National Park7 miles round trip, ModerateTwo major waterfalls, misty spray, granite staircasesApril to OctoberStart early to avoid crowds and wear waterproof gear for the misty sections.
2McWay Falls TrailMcWay Falls TrailBig Sur (Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park)1 mile round trip, EasyIconic 80-foot waterfall that drops directly into the oceanYear-roundShort hike with limited parking; arrive early for best views.
3Burney Falls Loop TrailBurney Falls Loop TrailMcArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park1 mile loop, Easy129-foot waterfall with a stunning curtain effectYear-roundBest views in spring when the water flow is strongest; great for all ages.
4Feather Falls TrailFeather Falls TrailPlumas National Forest9 miles round trip, Moderate410-foot waterfall, one of California's tallestApril to JuneHike early to beat the heat and bring plenty of water; enjoy panoramic views from the overlook.
5Wapama Falls TrailWapama Falls TrailYosemite National Park (Hetch Hetchy)5 miles round trip, Moderate1,400-foot cascading waterfall, impressive during spring runoffApril to JuneCheck water levels before visiting; can be very wet during high flows.
6Berry Creek Falls LoopBerry Creek Falls LoopBig Basin Redwoods State Park10.5 miles loop, StrenuousSeries of waterfalls, lush redwood forestMarch to MayChallenging hike; bring plenty of water and start early for a full-day adventure.
7Escondido FallsEscondido FallsMalibu (Santa Monica Mountains)4 miles round trip, Moderate150-foot tiered waterfall, most impressive after heavy rainsWinter to SpringTrail can be muddy after rain; wear appropriate footwear and bring a camera.
8Rainbow FallsRainbow FallsDevils Postpile National Monument5 miles round trip, Moderate101-foot waterfall known for rainbows in the mistJune to OctoberTrailhead access via shuttle bus in summer; mid-morning light best for rainbow effect.
9Bridalveil Fall TrailBridalveil Fall TrailYosemite National Park0.5 miles round trip, Easy620-foot waterfall, one of Yosemite’s most iconic fallsYear-roundExpect mist near the base; slippery rocks can be common, so tread carefully.
10Tahquitz FallsTahquitz FallsPalm Springs (Agua Caliente Indian Reservation)2 miles round trip, Moderate60-foot waterfall in a stunning desert oasisOctober to MayEntry fee required; best visited in cooler months, and go early to avoid midday heat.