LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Coquette Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainTrail Length
0.5 miles
About Coquette Falls
Coquette Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in California, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The waterfall may vary in flow depending on the season, with spring typically providing the most impressive display due to snowmelt.
The Setting
Coquette Falls sits at 7,999 feet within Shasta National Forest, in the high mountains of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Ash Creek Falls (290 ft) lies 5.0 miles to the southeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Coquette (#03W23), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
COQUETTE #03W23
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.56 miTrail Description
Details about the trail leading to Coquette Falls are not well-documented. The area may involve unmarked paths or off-trail navigation, so hikers should be prepared and cautious.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and natural environment with the sound of cascading water. The flow of the waterfall may vary significantly depending on the time of year.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Coquette Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Coquette Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is generally the best time to visit due to higher water flow from snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Shasta National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked and could involve uneven terrain. Visitors should be prepared with proper gear and navigation tools. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 24.6 miles away
83 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 41 years of record
1.54 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SHASTA R NR MONTAGUE CA (40 km away).
Today
Moderate
83 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
84 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
86 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
89 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
92 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
114 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
116 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid December to early March, peaking in February.
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 Carrick 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 208 feet of descent through Coquette Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 8,000 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 118 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 190 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 8,000 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 208 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Coquette Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking resources or maps for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. It is recommended to check with local authorities or nearby trailheads for parking options.
Elevation
7,999 feet above sea level
Coordinates
41.447097° N, -122.214733° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and carry plenty of water.
This trail sits at 7,999 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 32% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
Mount Shasta Resort
Comfort Inn Mount Shasta Area
Travelodge by Wyndham Dunsmuir
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
RED FIR FLAT GROUP CAMPGROUND
7.4 miles away · 1 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas in the region.
Wildlife
The area may host typical California wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of potential encounters with snakes or other wildlife.
Cities near Coquette Falls
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