Whiskeytown Falls
California • 220 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
700 ft
About Whiskeytown Falls
Whiskeytown Falls is a dramatic three-tiered cascade that drops a total of 220 feet inside California’s Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Nestled within the Whiskeytown–Shasta–Trinity NRA and managed by the National Park Service, the falls are tucked into a forested canyon and reward hikers with a series of plunging drops framed by mixed oak and conifer vegetation. Despite its size, Whiskeytown Falls remained largely unknown to the public until 2005 after being improperly mapped for decades, a bit of recent discovery that adds to the site’s appeal. The area is a popular moderate-day outing for visitors to the recreation area, and camping is close by — Crystal Creek Primitive Campground sits roughly 1.76 km from the trailhead, making the falls an easy stop for overnight trips. The viewpoint offers clear vistas of all three tiers, and the shaded trail through the canyon makes for a pleasant hike in most seasons.
The Setting
Whiskeytown Falls sits at 2,864 feet within Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, in the hills of California. At 220 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in California.
Height: 220 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 700 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail stats: 3.4 miles (out-and-back) with about 700 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows a well-maintained footpath through dense forest with a steady uphill grade and some rocky sections underfoot. Expect a short, steeper scramble on the final approach to reach the main viewpoint of the falls. The trail is popular but still feels secluded in places; bring sturdy shoes and water, and note that nearby Crystal Creek Primitive Campground is less than 2 km from the trailhead if you plan to camp.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 220 feet. 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 Whiskeytown Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $25.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Whiskeytown Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Whiskeytown Falls, as the water flow is strongest during this period. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience, though trail conditions may be muddy or icy.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Check for trail closures or restrictions due to wildfire risks or maintenance before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
438 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
14.03 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°F
WarmVery comfortable
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a bracing 51 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 A LEWISTON CA (16 km away).
Today
Low
438 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
441 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
440 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
432 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
432 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
424 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
426 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 French Gulch 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 311 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 220 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 2,813 feet.
The ground changes about 304 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 54 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, 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
- 2,813 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 311 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Whiskeytown Falls is accessed via the James K. Carr Trailhead, located off Crystal Creek Road within the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Follow signs for the trailhead, which is about a 15-minute drive from the visitor center.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the James K. Carr Trailhead. Spaces may be limited during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
2,864 feet above sea level
Coordinates
40.626400° N, -122.669200° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and consider packing a snack to enjoy at the falls. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.
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With 3.4 miles and 700 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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
Comfort Suites Redding - Shasta Lake
Holiday Inn Redding by IHG
Home2 Suites By Hilton Redding
Holiday Inn Express Redding North by IHG
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
CRYSTAL CREEK PRIMITIVE CAMPGROUND
1.1 miles away · 2 sites
Overview This tent-only campground is located in the northwest corner of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, 19 miles west of Redding, California, and three and a half hours north of Sacramento. Crystal Creek flows alongside each campsite. The campground stays relatively cool due to the creek and to the shade given by a canopy of fir, maple and pine. Three nearby trails lead to lovely waterfalls. The cool, clear waters of Whiskeytown Lake provide endless water activities. The picturesque mounta
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Brandy Creek Falls, Boulder Creek Falls, and the Whiskeytown Lake for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. Be cautious of ticks and snakes during warmer months.
Cities near Whiskeytown Falls
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