Discover the most beautiful waterfalls in California, known for its numerous gorgeous natural sites that are distributed all over the state.
For many people, it’s the Golden State’s cascades that stand out above all. This blog post showcases the top 12 waterfalls in California.
12. Eaton Canyon Falls
This waterfall is located just outside of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel mountains.
It is an easy 4 mile round trip hike from the trailhead to get here. Be sure to leave early, as this waterfall’s popularity makes for lots of hikers.
11. Mossbrae Falls
Way up north in the Shasta Cascade area is this lush green waterfall. It is not particularly tall at only 50 feet, rather extremely wide at 175 feet.
While the hike there is not long, only 1.5 miles, it is not without risk. Part of the hike is along an active railroad, so keeping an ear and eye out for trains is very important.
Please note: Trekking to the falls constitutes trespassing and may result in fines up to $300. Should you decide to undertake this hike, you are doing so at your own risk. It is crucial to proceed with caution and stay aware of your surroundings.
10. Tokopah Falls
Located in Sequoia National Park, these falls are an easy 3.4 mile roundtrip hike.
Being 1.200 feet tall, it doesn’t fall straight down as many other falls. The Tokopah Falls cascade over rugged granite rocks.
The spectacle is most powerful in late spring and early summer during the snow melt. In fall, it’s usually just a trickle.
9. Bridalveil Fall
This waterfall is the first in Yosemite in this list and probably one of the most picturesque.
Bridalveil Fall, plunging 620 feet, is beautifully visible from various points, including the Tunnel View vista, offering breathtaking views over the Yosemite Valley.
Whether you’re visiting in the spring, when it thunders down, or during other seasons to see its characteristic light, swaying flow, Bridalveil Fall remains a must-see landmark within the park.
8. McCloud Falls
Another waterfall close to Mt. Shasta, McCloud Falls is actually a series of three waterfalls.
This is an easy out and back 4 mile hike to see all three falls. At the very top there are picnic areas and another small waterfall created by a dam from logging days.
7. Rainbow Falls
This waterfall is by Mammoth Mountain between Yosemite and Kings Canyon National Parks.
It was named for the rainbows created by the mist on sunny days.
If you want to experience the spectacle, visit the falls midday, when the sun is highest.
6. Feather Falls
Being described as a “Yosemite-style waterfall without the crowds”, Feather Falls’ 410-foot drop is an impressive sight so see.
If you want to visit this place, you have to wait though: Due to extensive fire damage, the falls and its surrounding areas are closed through March 2024 for rehabilitation efforts.
Visitors are advised to check for updates with Plumas National Forest before planning a trip. It’s important to respect the closure for safety and legal reasons.
5. Vernal & Nevada Falls
We know, these are two separate waterfalls, but together they make up the so-called Giant Stairway in Yosemite National Park, often cited among the most beautiful waterfalls in California.
Accessible via the scenic Mist Trail, Vernal Fall makes up the Giant Stairway’s lower step, dropping over 300 feet.
After crossing the Merced River and climbing another 600 granite steps, you reach the even taller Nevada Falls.
4. McWay Falls
Located in scenic Big Sur, this is one of two Californian waterfalls falling directly on the beach.
Combined with the turquoise water in the breathtakingly beautiful bay and the view of the Pacific Ocean, this is one of the most impressive natural sites in the whole country.
The McWay Falls are almost directly on Pacific Coast Highway, be sure to check out our blog post featuring its best stops!
3. Alamere Falls
Located in Point Reyes National Seashore, this is the second waterfall in the state flowing directly into the ocean or on the beach, depending on the tide.
It’s also the Bay Area’s largest fall and only accessible via a 13.8-mile hike.
Be sure to check the tide before visiting Alamere Falls!
2. McArthur-Burney Falls
The 129-foot Burney Falls provide an almost constant daily flow rate of 100 million gallons even during the dry summer months.
President Theodore Roosevelt referred to the falls as “the Eighth Wonder of the World.”
This is one of the most beautiful nature spots in California.
The top spot in our list of the most beautiful waterfalls in California:
1. Yosemite Falls
Being the tallest waterfall in North America and the fifth-largest waterfall in the entire world, Yosemite Falls is actually made up of three separate falls: Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall.
Together, they are almost 2.500 feet tall. If you are ready for a very demanding all-day hike, you can also hike to the top of the falls.
If you love California’s nature as much as we do and wanna learn about the Golden State’s stunning National Parks, also read our complete guide to California’s National Parks!
Also, if you enjoyed reading this list, you’ll LOVE watching it in video-format:
