Burney Falls
California • 129 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Burney Falls
Burney Falls, located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park in Northern California, is a stunning 129-foot waterfall fed by underground springs. Known as the 'eighth wonder of the world' by President Theodore Roosevelt, it features a unique dual-layered flow with water cascading over the top and seeping through the porous volcanic rock below.
The Setting
Burney Falls sits at 2,930 feet within McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, in the hills of California. At 129 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 129 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-mile loop trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Burney Falls Loop Trail is a short, well-maintained path that provides stunning views of the waterfall from multiple angles. The trail descends to the base of the falls and loops back to the parking area, offering a mix of shaded forest and open views.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 129 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Burney Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Burney Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Burney Falls, as the surrounding foliage is lush and the water flow is typically at its peak.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery near the falls due to mist. Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on rocks. Be aware of wildlife and follow park guidelines.
Current Water Conditions
895 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 50 years of record
5.01 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PIT R BL PIT NO 1 PH NR FALL RIVER MILLS CA (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
883 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
1031 cfs
3/10Sun
Barely Flowing
960 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
890 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
869 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
883 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
869 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early May, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Johnson Park hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Burney Falls is located within McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, approximately 60 miles northeast of Redding, California. The park is accessible via Highway 89.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample parking is available within the state park, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. A day-use fee is required for parking.
Elevation
2,930 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.010716° N, -121.652765° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends and holidays to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery near the falls. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
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This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Green Gables Motel & Suites
Shasta Pines Motel & Suites
Charm Motel & Suites
Inn At Mount Shasta
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Pit River Campground
7.7 miles away · 0 sites
The Pit River Recreation area is adjacent to the Pit River, has a small campground with eight campsites with tables, metal firerings, and barbeque pits. Amenities include: two single wheelchair accessible restrooms, a kayak launch ramp, and an accessible fishing pier. Camping:$8.00/night
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Johnson Park, California
Big Bend, California
Big Bend sits along a dramatic curve of the Pit River in Shasta County at 1,720 feet elevation, occupying territory historicall...
Big Bend Hot Springs
Big Bend Hot Springs surges at a scalding 180 degrees Fahrenheit from volcanic terrain at just 1,644 feet elevation, creating o...
Hunt Hot Spring
Hunt Hot Spring produces 136-degree water from the forested slopes near McCloud in Siskiyou County at just 1,712 feet elevation...
Hot Springs
Hot Springs emerge from the canyon walls of the Pit River in Shasta County at 3,310 feet elevation, their thermal nature docume...
Little Hot Spring
Little Hot Spring discharges at 169°F in the volcanic terrain south of Lassen, where superheated water rises 117 degrees above ...
Bassett Hot Springs
Bassett Hot Springs delivers superheated water at 174 degrees Fahrenheit from volcanic terrain near Burney, ranking among north...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Johnson Park, California on SoakingSprings.
Explore California springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Lake Britton, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and the Pacific Crest Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, squirrels, various bird species, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should exercise caution and store food properly.
Cities near Burney Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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