Are there fees or permits required for Lion Slide Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Lion Slide Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Lion Slide Falls?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Lion Slide Falls.

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Lion Slide Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Lion Slide Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Lion Slide Falls.

California

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

1.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Lion Slide Falls

Lion Slide Falls is a picturesque waterfall just outside the small community of Big Bend in Northern California, known for its cascading water and natural swimming pools that draw visitors looking for a refreshing outdoor break. The falls are an appealing destination in all seasons—close enough for a day trip but tucked into a quiet forested setting that feels a world away from the highway. Reaching the viewpoint requires a short hike: the route is a 2.4‑mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. While there isn’t a campground immediately adjacent to the falls, the nearest developed camping is in the Shasta Lake area about 23 km away, so most visitors plan Lion Slide Falls as a day outing rather than an overnight stay.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Potem Falls (70 ft) lies 7.4 miles to the west. Also nearby: Hatchet Creek Falls (30 ft, 2.5 mi).

Potem Falls Hatchet Creek Falls

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The trail follows a forested route and is mostly a gentle grade, but expect some uneven footing and short steeper pitches that contribute to the moderate rating. Footwear with good traction is recommended; the path leads directly to the waterfall and its natural pools, making for a rewarding short hike suitable for most reasonably fit hikers.

What to Expect

Swimming is permitted. 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 Lion Slide Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Lion Slide Falls?

✅ Swimming is allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strong, and the weather is warm enough for swimming.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Rocks around the falls can be slippery, and water levels may rise quickly after rain. Always supervise children and avoid climbing on wet rocks. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Montgomery Creek 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.

Through the falls the surface drops roughly 199 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,004 feet.

The ground changes about 232 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 37 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Lion Slide Falls near Montgomery Creek, California, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 3,004 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 199 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: West; Glows in afternoon and evening light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Lion Slide Falls is located near Big Bend, California. Access typically involves driving on rural roads, and the falls are situated near the Pit River. Visitors should use GPS coordinates or local maps to locate the trailhead, as signage may be limited.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

Elevation

2,992 feet above sea level

Coordinates

40.872379° N, -121.893051° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring water shoes if you plan to swim, as the rocks can be slippery. Be cautious of changing water levels, especially after heavy rains.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Shasta Lake Area

14.3 miles away · 0 sites

** Due to fluctuating water levels on Shasta Lake, visitors are encouraged to contact the Shasta Recreation Company (concessionaire to the Forest Service) @ 530-275-8113 or the Shasta-Triinity National Forest, Shasta Lake Ranger Station at (530) 275-1587 for possible temporary campground closures. **The Shasta Unit is one of three units that comprise the Whiskeytown - Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area. It was established by Congress in 1965. These areas were recognized for their unique and

Book on Recreation.gov