McCloud Falls - Upper Fall
Witness the power of the McCloud River as it plunges through a basalt gorge at Upper McCloud Falls, a gem in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Upper McCloud Falls, the last of the three waterfalls on the McCloud River, offers a unique perspective with its powerful cascade through a narrow basalt gorge. Easily accessible with a short walk from the parking area, it's a worthwhile stop for witnessing the beauty and geological history of the region.
A brief summary to McCloud Falls - Upper Fall
- Upper Fall Rd, McCloud, California, 96057, US
- +1530-964-2184
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or early summer for the best water flow and to see the falls at their most powerful.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique geometric formations of the columnar basalt cliffs surrounding the falls.
- Combine your visit with a hike to Middle and Lower McCloud Falls via the McCloud River Trail for a complete waterfall experience.
Getting There
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Driving
From the town of McCloud, drive east on Highway 89 for approximately 5.5 miles. Look for the signed road for the McCloud River Loop and turn right (if coming from McCloud). Continue for 0.7 miles and stay right at the first intersection. Turn right again to get to the Upper Falls parking lot. Parking is free. From the parking lot, it's a short, paved walk to the viewing area.
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Walking
If starting from Lower or Middle McCloud Falls, follow the McCloud River Trail upstream. The trail is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the river and canyon. From Middle Falls, continue along the trail for approximately 1.5 miles to reach Upper McCloud Falls. Be aware that the trail has some moderate switchbacks.
Discover more about McCloud Falls - Upper Fall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McCloud Millworks
9.9 km
Discover the historical significance of McCloud Millworks, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the rich lumber heritage of Northern California.
McCloud Heritage Junction Museum
11.0 km
Discover the captivating history of McCloud, California, at the Heritage Junction Museum: explore exhibits, artifacts, and stories of this unique lumber and railroad town.
Bartells Camp historic marker
14.7 km
Explore the historical significance of Bartells Camp in McCloud, California, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich heritage.
Signal Butte Switchback
15.2 km
Explore the historic Signal Butte Switchback near McCloud, California, and discover a unique railway relic offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich logging past.
Ancestral Rock
20.1 km
Discover the ancient energies of Ancestral Rock near Mount Shasta, a sacred site offering panoramic views and a connection to the region's rich geological and spiritual history.
Panther Meadows
20.5 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Mount Shasta at Panther Meadows, a sacred Native American site with stunning alpine scenery and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection and connection.
The Sacred Spring
20.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of The Sacred Spring, a California Historical Landmark and a vital cultural link to the Tongva people, offering a tranquil escape and a spiritual connection.
Belnap Fountain
22.3 km
Experience the pristine taste of Dunsmuir, California, at the Belnap Fountain, where naturally pure water from Mount Shasta flows freely, embodying the town's 'Best Water on Earth' legacy.
Former Ski Bowl
22.4 km
Explore the historical Former Ski Bowl on Mount Shasta, where stunning views and remnants of a bygone ski era create a unique hiking experience, offering a glimpse into the mountain's vibrant past.
Lookout point at Cave Springs Motel
22.5 km
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Ascension Rock
23.3 km
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Dad's Medicine Wheel
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Mushroom Rock
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Explore Mushroom Rock in McCloud, California, a stunning historical landmark perfect for nature lovers and adventurers seeking breathtaking views.
Mt Shasta Memorial Fountain
26.6 km
Discover the serene Mt Shasta Memorial Fountain, a historical landmark symbolizing community spirit and offering refreshing mountain water amidst stunning landscapes.
California Historical Landmark 396: Strawberry Valley Stage Station
27.6 km
Explore the Strawberry Valley Stage Station, a rich historical landmark in Mt. Shasta, revealing tales of California's stagecoach era and its scenic beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
McCloud River Falls Trailhead
1.3 km
Discover three stunning waterfalls on a scenic trail along the McCloud River in Northern California's Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Lower Falls, McCloud River
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Falls at McCloud River, a serene escape into Northern California's natural wonders.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park
18.6 km
Discover the thrill of winter sports and stunning views at Mt. Shasta Ski Park, your ultimate destination for skiing and snowboarding in California.
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
20.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Shasta-Trinity National Forest, a natural paradise perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Mossbrae Falls
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Experience the natural beauty of Mossbrae Falls in California, where stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes create an unforgettable escape into nature.
Hedge Creek Falls
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Explore Hedge Creek Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in Dunsmuir, California, offering scenic hiking trails and a unique behind-the-falls experience.
Tauhindauli Park
22.4 km
Explore the serene Tauhindauli Park in Dunsmuir, California, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation and adventure.
Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens
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Mount Shasta Wilderness
24.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Mount Shasta Wilderness, where stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventures await every traveler.
Shastice Park
26.0 km
Explore Shastice Park in Mt. Shasta: a beautiful park with playgrounds, a skatepark, and breathtaking views of Mt. Shasta, perfect for all ages.
Shasta Vortex Adventures
26.7 km
Uncover the magic of Mt. Shasta with personalized tours and adventures that connect you to the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the area.
Mt. Shasta Sisson Museum
27.8 km
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Headwaters Spring
28.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Headwaters Spring in Mt. Shasta, a natural oasis perfect for relaxation, exploration, and connecting with nature.
Castle Crags State Park
28.1 km
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Mount Shasta City Park
28.1 km
Discover the source of the Sacramento River in this charming park with trails, picnic spots, and community events in the heart of Mount Shasta City.
Essential places to dine
Phuket Thai Café
25.7 km
Discover the rich flavors of Thailand at Phuket Thai Café in Mt. Shasta—where culinary tradition meets cozy ambiance.
The Garden Tap
25.9 km
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Harvest
26.0 km
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Casa Ramos Méxican Restaurant
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Ramos in the beautiful town of Mt. Shasta.
Lilys Restaurant
26.1 km
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Highland House Restaurant
26.3 km
Experience exquisite breakfast delights at Highland House Restaurant amidst stunning views of Mt. Shasta's natural beauty.
Gigi’s Cafe
26.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Gigi's Cafe in Mt. Shasta, where every meal tells a story of freshness and local charm.
Mike & Tony's Restaurant
26.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mike & Tony's Restaurant in beautiful Mt. Shasta—where every meal feels like a journey to Italy.
Bistro 107
26.5 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Bistro 107—Mt. Shasta's favorite bistro known for its delicious hamburgers and warm ambiance.
Handsome John's Speakeasy
26.6 km
Discover Handsome John's Speakeasy: A charming pub in Mt. Shasta offering delicious American cuisine and an inviting sports bar atmosphere.
Sparky’s Landing
26.7 km
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Andaman | Healthy Thai Cuisine
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Say Cheese Pizza
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Discover the ultimate pizza experience at Say Cheese Pizza in Mt Shasta - where every bite is a taste of happiness!
Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen
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Crave
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dandelion Dust Boutique
22.2 km
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Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe
26.1 km
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2nd Chance Consigments
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The Luminaire & The Alchemist - Cafe, Books & Custom Framing
26.5 km
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Velvet Elephant Art Center & Fair Trade Emporium
26.5 km
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Shasta Visions
26.5 km
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Peace of Mt. Shasta
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Shambhala Center and Specialty Store
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Shirt Gallery
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Directions
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Siskiyou Humane Society Thrift Store
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Mountain Song
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Mount Shasta Trading CO - Great Deals on Quality Brands
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Ramshaw's Home Boutique
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ACE Hardware
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Siskiyou Brew Works
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Cobra Lily Bar & Bottle
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Gold Room Saloon
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Vet's Club
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Mount Shasta Brewing Co.
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Weed Alehouse Bistro
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Weed Pub
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Basshole Brews
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Silver Dollar Club
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Karma's House of Spirits
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Karma's House of Spirits in Redding, CA - a perfect bar & grill for cocktails, food, and live music.
Rusty Nail
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Three Shastas Bar & Grill
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Monroe's Nightclub & Karaoke
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Discover Monroe's Nightclub & Karaoke in Redding, CA – where singing, dancing, and unforgettable nightlife come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kelly's Pub and Wine Bar
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Discover the delightful flavors of Kelly's Pub and Wine Bar, a must-visit spot in Redding for great food, wine, and a lively atmosphere.
Alehouse Pub
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Discover the best of Redding at Alehouse Pub, where great food, craft brews, and a friendly atmosphere create an unforgettable experience.
