If you consider yourself a waterfall enthusiast and you haven’t seen Feather Falls yet, then you need to get on it pronto! This magnificent waterfall is one of the finest sights that Northern California has to offer. Its stunning beauty is something that everybody should experience at least once. However, the hike to the waterfall is just as incredible. Loaded with beautiful scenery and even some picturesque bridges, this hike is definitely one for the books. Put on your hiking boots and set out on this one-of-a-kind bridge trail for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Located near Oroville is one of the most blissful waterfall hikes on the face of the planet. The Feather Falls Scenic Trail is an eight-mile loop trail that leads you straight into the depths of a beautiful forest, complete with little creeks and waterfalls, and ultimately ends with a jaw-dropping view of the sixth tallest waterfall in the nation.
To get to the trailhead: Take Highway 70 to Oroville and exit onto Oroville Dam Boulevard, heading northeast. You'll turn right after 1.5 miles onto Olive Highway and then turn right again at Forbestown Road. Drive for six miles and then turn left on Lumpkin Road. The sign for the trailhead is approximately 10 miles down the road.
The hike itself is absolutely magical and you'll almost forget that you came here to see Feather Falls. You'll stroll on a path through groves of cedar and pine trees, all while the trickling sound of a nearby stream fills your ears.
Several quaint footbridges are placed along the trail to help you cross the creeks and streams. Keep in mind that after the first half-mile you'll come across a fork where you can choose between the Upper and Lower trail. Most people opt for the Upper trail because it's not as intense and more easy-going than the alternative.
The Upper trail also contains a lot more treasures along it, including views of Bald Rock Dome and a "miniature" waterfall that prepares you for Feather Falls at the end.
The trail will start to closely follow the beautiful Frey Creek and eventually leads you to a smaller waterfall that is perfect for taking a quick break before continuing on. These falls are beautiful but they've got nothing on what you're about to experience.
Soon, the sound of rushing water will come to you and you'll begin to snag peeks of the falls through the trees. The trail continues to lead you to a wooden viewing platform that boasts an awesome vantage point of the falls.
Once you see Feather Falls, you'll be filled with complete awe. At over 600-feet tall, the waterfall is simply magnificent. In this moment, you'll be grateful that you spent the last few hours hiking through the woods for this. The view is worth it.
Hiking the entire loop trail could easily take at least four hours (longer if you want to take time to explore), so prepare an ample amount of time to take it all in. Be sure to pack plenty of water and respect the amazing ecosystem that resides here. Most importantly, enjoy the sight of one of the most epic waterfalls that Northern California has to offer.
