Do you ever find yourself looking for easy-access waterfalls in NorCal to enjoy? Seeking out one of northern California’s picturesque waterfalls always makes for a fantastic experience. However, sometimes we aren’t in the mood for a strenuous hike. All day adventures are great, but they aren’t always practical. Luckily for us, our region of the Golden State is loaded with easy-to-get-to waterfalls. There are plenty of waterfalls in northern California that are easily seen from the road or after a short, easy hike. We’ve found six of these accessible waterfalls that are worth the minimal effort to see them. Get ready to set out and find one of these beauties for yourself!

1. Hedge Creek Falls

Hedge Creek Falls, 4131 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, USA
Bartfett via Getty Images
This brilliant 35-foot cascade pours out over a basalt overhang. Hedge Creek Falls is a downright gorgeous sight. This lovely waterfall is located right off Interstate 5 in Dunsmuir. Finding it is a quick and easy adventure that won't take all day. Simply take the short 0.6-mile trail (located right by Exit 732) right down to the waterfall. There, you can soak up its beauty and even explore the cave behind it. Did you know the cave behind the waterfall was once used by stagecoach robbers as a hideout?

2. Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall, California 95389, USA
Mike Handke/Google
The beautiful Bridalveil Fall near Pollock Pines is practically a drive-up waterfall. It's located right along Highway 50, and even has a large pullout right in front of it. All you have to do is pull over and there it is! It's a great option from these easy-access waterfalls for those with mobility issues who may not be able to enjoy some of the great hiking trails with waterfalls in northern California. This 80-foot cascade is simply spectacular. It's more than worth a brief pit stop when driving through the area!

3. Devils Falls

Yankee Jims Road, Yankee Jims Rd, California, USA
Richard Balasko/Google
Devils Falls is an underrated gem in northern California that's definitely worth checking out. It's tucked right along Yankee Jims Road, about five miles south of Colfax. The waterfall is an approximately 60-foot-tall cascade that splits into two separate flows. You can see the falls right from the road. Some adventurers opt to hike down to the bottom to get a better view, but it's easily seen from the small parking lot if you aren't able to hike to the bottom.

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4. Burney Falls at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, 24898 CA-89, Burney, CA 96013, USA
Spondylolithesis via Getty Images
There's a reason that Burney Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in northern California. This unique waterfall is an extraordinary thing to see in person. It's easily accessible via a short path within the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. This easy 1-mile trail will take you directly to an overlook of this famous natural wonder in Northern California. Don't forget to bring your camera!

5. Lake Clementine Dam

Lake Clementine Dam & Boat Launch, Lake Clementine Rd, Auburn, CA 95603, USA
Matthew Corley via Getty Images
This man-made waterfall in northern California is awe-inspiring, to say the least. A lot of visitors choose to take advantage of the Lake Clementine Trail to view the falls. The trail runs right along the North Fork American River. However, you can easily spot this cascade from the road as well. Simply turn onto Lake Clementine Road (off Foresthill Road, off of I-80) and drive a few miles. There is a fee to access the dam.

6. Potem Falls in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Potem Falls, California 96003, USA
Bartfett via Getty Images
Potem Falls is another gem that's waiting for you at the end of a short and sweet trail. It's located within a lush and rugged canyon. This 45-foot waterfall (and the pool at its base!) is a popular swimming destination during the warmer months. You can access the trailhead just after the Fenders Ferry Bridge. The trail itself is only 0.4 miles out and back. This gorgeous place looks like something out of a fairy tale.

How many of these easy-access waterfalls in NorCal have you seen? Know of any other California waterfalls that should be on the list? Share them with us in the comments!

For another beautiful waterfall in NorCal for your bucket list, check out Yosemite Falls! Be sure to take the AllTrails Plus app with you on all your hikes – no matter how short!

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More to Explore

Easy Access Waterfalls In NorCal & Related Info

Lisa Sammons | March 03, 2022

What are some more waterfalls near me in northern California?

For those who don't feel like making a major trek, there are ten easily accessible waterfalls in northern California that don't require a ton of walking. They are great for those with mobility issues or if you simply don't have time or energy for a big hike. A few include:

  • Lion Slide Falls
  • Little Hawaii Falls
  • Bassi Falls

 

What are some of the best waterfall hikes in northern California?

How about a waterfall hike in northern California that will literally let you enter a waterfall? You can do just that at the beautiful Wapuma Falls Trail in Yellowstone's Hetch Hetcy Valley area.

What are some of the tallest waterfalls in northern California?

Yosemite Falls is not just the tallest waterfall in northern California, but it's one of the very tallest in the United States. It towers 2,145 feet above the ground. Discover more beautiful hidden waterfalls that are worth a visit, including:

  • Faery Falls
  • Hidden Falls

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Explore Northern California

Featured Addresses
Lake Clementine Rd, Auburn, CA 95603, USA
Yankee Jims Rd, Colfax, CA 95713, USA
Hedge Creek Falls, 4131 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, USA
Burney Falls, California 96013, USA
Potem Creek Falls, Fenders Ferry Rd, Round Mountain, CA 96084, USA
Pollock Pines, CA 95726, USA