Are there fees or permits required for Lion Wash Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Lion Wash Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Lion Wash Falls.

Lion Wash Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Lion Wash Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Lion Wash Falls.

California

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Photo Credits (1)

Art4TheGlryOfGod by Sharon CC BY-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Lion Wash Falls

Lion Wash Falls is a seasonal waterfall tucked into a remote corner of California, coming to life during the wetter months or after heavy rains. Its quiet setting and rugged surroundings make it a favorite for hikers seeking solitude and a short-but-scenic outing; expect rushing cascades when the water is up and a much more subdued bed during dry spells. The walk to the falls is a moderately challenging 3.0-mile out-and-back with about 500 feet of elevation gain, rewarding hikers with intimate views of the wash and surrounding scrub. Because the flow is ephemeral, plan your visit after recent storms for the best chance of seeing water, and be prepared for uneven, rocky tread and occasional overgrown sections along the route.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Potem Falls (70 ft) lies 7.8 miles to the west. Also nearby: Hatchet Creek Falls (30 ft, 2.9 mi).

Potem Falls Hatchet Creek Falls

Trail & Hike Details

3.0 mi distance 500 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Out-and-back, 3.0 miles round trip with approximately 500 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows dirt paths with rocky sections and can be overgrown in places, so expect uneven footing and occasional brush encroachment. The waterfall is seasonal and may be dry during extended dry periods, so time your visit after rain for the best viewing.

What to Expect

Expect a moderately challenging hike with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The waterfall may be a trickle or dry during the summer months, so visiting after rainfall is ideal. The area is remote, so cell service may be limited.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lion Wash Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Lion Wash Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Lion Wash Falls is during the spring or after significant rainfall when the waterfall is most likely to be flowing.

Seasonal Access

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

Safety Information

Hikers should be cautious of loose rocks, slippery surfaces, and overgrown sections of the trail. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out. Cell service may be limited in the area.

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.

1-meter lidar measures about 184 feet of descent through Lion Wash Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 3,124 feet above sea level.

Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 266 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 148 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.

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

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Lion Wash Falls near Montgomery Creek, California, showing about 184 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing northwest

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

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

Ground elevation: 3,124 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 184 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Northwest; Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.

Ground profile through the falls

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

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

Location & Access

Getting There

Lion Wash Falls is located in a remote area of California. Access typically requires navigating dirt roads and hiking trails. Visitors should research the exact location and trailhead before planning their trip.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is limited and may require roadside parking near the trailhead. Visitors should ensure they park in designated areas to avoid fines or towing.

Elevation

3,130 feet above sea level

Coordinates

40.871545° N, -121.885828° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail can become muddy or slippery after rain. Start your hike early to avoid the heat and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip.

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With 3.0 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

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

14.7 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