Burney Falls

Distance: .6 mile out-and-back

Directions: From McCloud, CA, follow Highway 89 South for about 40 miles. Turn right at the sign for McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.

A short, paved path takes you out of the hot, dry summer heat of California’s northeastern Cascades and brings you to an icy blue pool at the base of a 129-foot waterfall. 

Burney falls is much more interesting than just a relief from the California summer, however. All but two of its streams (coming from the creek above) pour directly out of basalt cliffs in a massive series of springs.

The water originates as precipitation on Burney Mountain, where it filters through porous volcanic rock to provide a consistent year-round flow for the falls. The water then flows down the remainder of Burney Creek to Lake Britton, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping.

The path to the fall’s base is just the beginning of this short roadside adventure. Hiking down Burney Creek, hiking up the opposite side of the falls, and accessing the Pacific Crest Trail are all further hiking prospects within the park.