The northernmost parts of Northern California lay claim to the largest lake and the longest river – and thus, plenty of things to do. The folks who live here are proud and very candid about their love of life here. Some of the most amazing waterfalls can be found in this part of the state, along with one very special falls that welcomes you to step behind the water’s veil. This incredible, walkable waterfall in Northern California will take your breath away in the best way possible.

This is where you need to go: the City of Dunsmuir. It's where you'll discover Hedge Creek Falls.
Rawbff15/Wikimedia
The Falls on Hedge Creek were once destined for destruction when a highway threatened their future. Local town folks (proud and LOUD, remember?) made sure there was NO WAY that would happen to their beloved area. The rest, as they say, is history - and we're pretty glad it went as well for the falls as it did!
But first, you need to hike some natural gorgeousness like this.
mary/Flickr
Pictured above is Mt. Shasta from the Sacramento River at Hedge Creek Falls trail; this is the view from the viewing platform. You can easily reach it by trail from the trailhead closest to Highway 5. It's a popular destination because it's so accessible.
Once you arrive, you'll probably end up looking a bit like this:
Jun Seita/Flickr
When you walk to the falls for the first time, this is what everyone looks like: awestruck. Talk about an incredibly unique hikes in Northern California!

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...to say it's "magical" is the understatement of the year.
Patricia Carver/Flickr
Some may miss the falls for this kind of thing all on its own!
Ron Lute/Flickr
This strapping (see what we did there) fellow is climbing UP THE FACE of Hedge Creek Falls. Apparently, he missed the memo: we walk BEHIND the falls, sir.
But, you'll be sitting pretty here:
Ride to dine/Flickr
...looking out from behind the falls. We're not sure it gets a lot better than this! Well, maybe if we get the spot all to ourselves...

Make sure to bring your camera! The area around here has an ethereal quality that creates incredible photos - and optical illusions, too.
The day will fly by, and you won't want to leave.
Joan C Wrenn/Flickr
Did you know that the notorious "gentleman" trainrobber known as Black Bart was thought to have hid in the caves here behind Hedge Creek Falls while eluding authorities in the 1870s?

Bring your best friends and make some memories here! Like we said, the folks who live around here are loud and proud of it, so keep things looking perfect and carry out all your trash. You want to be welcomed back, don’t you? We thought so. Which waterfall in Northern California is your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments.

Need more amazing NorCal waterfalls? Take a look at this list of 15 hidden waterfalls in Northern California.

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Me in Northern California

Tori Jane | August 06, 2021

What are some amazing natural wonders in Northern California?  

There are so many incredible sights to see in the region of Northern California that it can be overwhelming to try and decide on just a few to see and experience. We can totally try to make it easier for you with some of our favorites! Of course, you could always go see the enchanting forest at Redwood National Park (which we definitely recommend), but there’s much more than just that! Take the incredible drive along Highway 1 for some of the most incredible, wonderful beauty the United States has to offer. The coastlines of Northern California are something incredibly special and unlike anywhere else in the nation. Lassen Volcanic National Park is another must-see wonder, especially for those who are fascinated by the history of the earth. For more of our favorite natural wonders in Northern California (and then some), take a look at this list!  

What are the best hikes in Northern California?  

There are many hikes throughout Northern California that are simply incredible. The region is like none other on this side of the United States; its mountainous terrain comes with amazing views of the surrounding world that truly seem to cleanse the soul. Some of the most unique, stand-alone routes to take include hikes through the beautiful Siskiyou Wilderness, which includes deep canyons and views to die for. The Desolation Wilderness nearby Lake Tahoe is another must-do. You won’t believe the incredible views of the mountains and surrounding wilderness. Don’t let that name fool you – the Desolation Wilderness is a popular area for hikers and outdoorsmen, and for good reason.  

What are some fun outdoor things to do in Northern California? 

Northern California is an excellent state for outdoor activities and recreation. Take your pick from some of the most incredible hiking trails in the world, plentiful fishing, camping, and swimming holes. Take a waterfall road trip and explore the legendary cascades of NorCal. Find your next favorite thing to do by taking up “glamping”, a modernized, more-glitzy form of camping. The region is an outdoorsy person’s dream come true – it doesn’t get a whole lot more breathtaking than NorCal’s great outdoors.

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Featured Addresses
Hedge Creek Falls, 4131 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, USA