Canyon Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
16.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2 ft
About Canyon Creek Falls
Canyon Creek Falls is a striking cascade tucked into the forests of northern California, set on lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Trinity National Forest. The falls are known for clear, plunging water framed by rocky cliffs and mixed-conifer forest, making it a favorite for hikers who enjoy dramatic creekside scenery and quiet wilderness immersion. Approaches follow tight channels and exposed rock, so give yourself time to savor the views and move carefully around slick stone. Access to the falls commonly uses the U.S. Forest Service’s BOULDER CREEK LAKES route (Trail #10W02). That official segment is recorded in Forest Service GIS at roughly 1.28 miles and is class 3 in difficulty on the USFS scale; the overall route to the falls is typically tackled as a long, hard out-and-back of about 16.0 miles. Expect native trail surfaces, steep pitches, and sections requiring hands-on scrambling and route-finding—bring proper footwear, navigation tools, and plan for a full-day backcountry outing.
The Setting
Canyon Creek Falls sits at 4,557 feet within Trinity National Forest, in the mountains of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard hike follows Boulder Creek Lakes (#10W02), a 16.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 2 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
BOULDER CREEK LAKES #10W02
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
1.28 miTrail Description
Trail: BOULDER CREEK LAKES (USFS Trail #10W02). Surface: native material. Class: 3 (requires scrambling and careful footing). Typical grade: 12-20% on sustained pitches. USFS GIS records a primary trail segment of about 1.28 miles, while the common approach to Canyon Creek Falls is described as an out-and-back near 16.0 miles total and is rated hard. The dataset lists a minimal recorded elevation gain (2 ft) but trail users should be prepared for significant ups-and-downs on steep, rocky tread and for route-finding around creek crossings and boulder fields. Expect uneven native tread, loose rock, and short exposed sections where hands-on scrambling is needed.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Canyon Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
Permit required
A free wilderness permit is required for overnight stays in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Day hikes do not require a permit.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Canyon Creek Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer can be hot but still rewarding.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Trinity National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can experience sudden storms. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out. Watch for loose rocks and slippery sections near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
481 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 21 years of record
9.14 ft
Water depth at gauge
57°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 TRINITY R AB NF TRINITY R NR HELENA CA (20 km away).
Today
Low
481 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
478 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
477 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
482 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
479 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
483 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
485 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Junction City hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 125 feet of drop through Canyon Creek Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 4,565 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 196 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 25 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,565 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 125 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Canyon Creek Falls is accessed via the Canyon Creek Trailhead, located near Junction City, California. The trailhead can be reached by driving along Canyon Creek Road, which is a paved but narrow road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Canyon Creek Trailhead, but it may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4,557 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.934308° N, -123.020588° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early in the day to allow plenty of time for the hike. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be steep and exposed in some areas. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This challenging 16.0 miles trail gains 2 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
Where to Stay
Lakeview Terrace Resort
Vibrant Weaverville Escape w/ Deck & Creek!
Comfort Suites Redding - Shasta Lake
Weaverville Hotel
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Bridge Camp (CA)
6.9 miles away · 11 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Trinity Alps Wilderness include Emerald Lake, Sapphire Lake, and the Stuart Fork Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Always practice caution and store food properly.
Cities near Canyon Creek Falls
Other waterfalls named Canyon Creek Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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