The Little-Known Swimming Hole In Northern California That Locals Want To Keep Secret

A Northern California swimming hole that locals want to keep secret? Yes, please! There are some amazing Northern California swimming holes, but Lower Falls on the McCloud River is a hidden gem that you will want to put on your bucket list today. So grab your swimsuit and head over to McCloud in Shasta County for a memorable day swimming by a waterfall surrounded by some gorgeous nature.

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The McCloud River Trailhead is located in McCloud, Shasta County, about an hour and fifteen minutes northeast of Redding.

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The McCloud River Trail is a 3.9-mile out-and-back trail that takes you past 3 stunning waterfalls. But, for a short hike to an awesome swimming hole, you'll want to stop at the first waterfall, Lower Falls.

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You will want to park at the Lower Falls parking lot, which is on Fowler Public Camp Road. The parking lot is not huge, so on a hot day, you may want to plan to get there early.

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From the parking lot, it is just a short hike to the overlook of the Lower Falls. Bring your camera and be sure to take in the gorgeous scenery and water.

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To access the waterfall and surrounding rocks from the overlook, you will have to descend about two flights of stairs. So keep in that in mind when considering footwear and also who you will be bringing along on your swimming hole adventure.

Ton T/Google Local

Once you arrive down at the falls, this great swimming hole awaits you! While some people do jump off the surrounding rocks, you cannot see many boulders under the water, which makes diving dangerous. So it is best to swim only!

Are you ready to check out this Northern California swimming hole? Go visit it today and then check out these other great Northern California swimming holes!