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Burney Falls: California's Emerald Jewel

Experience the majesty of Burney Falls, a year-round spectacle of nature's beauty in Northern California's McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.

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Burney Falls, located in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, is a stunning 129-foot waterfall formed by underground springs and snowmelt. Teddy Roosevelt called it the "Eighth Wonder of the World" , and it's easy to see why with its constant flow and lush surroundings.

A brief summary to Burney Falls

  • Monday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season (April to October), as the parking lot fills up quickly.
  • Bring cash for the $10 per vehicle entrance fee.
  • Take the 1.1-mile Burney Falls Loop Trail for the best views of the falls.
  • Pack layers, as the weather can vary, and the mist from the falls can be cooling.
  • Note that vehicles over 32 feet are not permitted in the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the town of Burney, head north on CA-89 for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Lake Road and follow the signs to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The park entrance is a short distance down Lake Road. Be prepared to pay a $10 entrance fee per vehicle at the kiosk. Parking is available in the park, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Parking in the Lake Britton parking lot and walking 1.5 miles to the falls may be required for oversized vehicles (less than 32 feet) on weekends.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park , you can take a bus to the town of Burney. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the park, which is about 6 miles north of town. Taxi/rideshare costs from Burney to the park can range from $20-$30. Check local taxi services for accurate fares.

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Discover more about Burney Falls

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, nestled between Mount Shasta and Lassen Peak, is home to the breathtaking Burney Falls. This natural wonder isn't the tallest or largest in California, but many consider it the most beautiful. The falls cascade 129 feet (39 meters) into a mist-filled basin, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The falls are fed by underground springs that originate from a million-year-old volcanic landscape. The porous basalt rock retains rainwater and snowmelt, which then emerges as springs at and above Burney Falls. This unique geological formation ensures a consistent flow of 100 million gallons of water every day, even during the driest months. The park itself spans 910 acres and features five miles of streamside and lake shoreline, including a portion of Lake Britton. Visitors can explore the area via hiking trails, including a section of the Pacific Crest Trail. The park also offers camping, fishing, and water sports opportunities. Burney Falls has a rich history, named after pioneer settler Samuel Burney. The McArthur family, who arrived later, played a crucial role in preserving the falls by purchasing the land and donating it to the state in the 1920s. Their efforts ensured that this natural wonder would be protected for generations to come.

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