Silver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Silver Falls
Silver Falls is a serene cascade tucked into Big Basin Redwoods State Park, offering a peaceful reward for a short walk through park woodlands. The falls are known for their photogenic drop and tranquil pool below, making the site a favorite for hikers and photographers seeking a quick nature escape. Visitors often pair the visit with other nearby park trails to make a half-day outing of it. The site and access are within the state park designation (SP) and are managed by California State Parks (SPR). Because the approach is relatively short and gentle, Silver Falls is accessible to a wide range of visitors looking for a brief, scenic hike inside one of the park’s protected lands.
The Setting
Silver Falls sits at 676 feet within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, in the foothills of California.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Castle Rock Falls (80 ft) lies 9.7 miles to the east. Also nearby: Berry Creek Falls (65 ft, 0.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail: 1.5 miles round trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 200 feet. Difficulty: easy. The route is a short, well-marked out-and-back that climbs gently to the waterfall viewpoint, making it suitable for most hikers and families. No USFS trail number applies; the route is maintained as part of Big Basin Redwoods State Park by California State Parks (SPR).
What to Expect
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 Silver Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Silver Falls is in the spring or early summer when the water flow is strongest. Fall is also a great time to visit for cooler weather and colorful foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. During winter, the trail may be icy or covered in snow, so check conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 75 years of record
1.81 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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 PESCADERO C NR PESCADERO CA (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January to mid April, 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 Loma Mar 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 277 feet of descent through Silver Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 661 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 118 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 84 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 661 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 277 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Silver Falls is located near Quincy, California, within the Plumas National Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via Silver Lake Road, which is off Highway 89. The road may be unpaved in sections, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended during certain seasons.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
676 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.177723° N, -122.270525° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy in some sections, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds.
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This easy 1.5 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
Costanoa
Half Moon Bay Lodge
The Historic Brookdale Lodge, Santa Cruz Mountains
Fern River Resort
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 Attractions
Nearby attractions include Silver Lake, Bucks Lake Wilderness, and the town of Quincy, which offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Be cautious of bears, especially during the summer and fall.
Cities near Silver Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Silver Falls
16 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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