McArthur-Burney Falls

Beloved Burney (Re-opened!)

Hike to the Base of Burney Falls at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

01.15.2025

One of most beautiful waterfalls in the country is located 50 miles east of Redding in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The 129-foot Burney Falls is a spectacle sure to leave you misty cheeked and mystified. Gushing 100 million gallons of water daily over a beautiful basalt cliff face, the oasis is so spectacular that President Theodore Roosevelt called it one of the wonders of the world.

Even better, the trail to hike to the base of the falls recently re-opened. So, get up close to Burney on the Falls Loop Trail, an easygoing 1.2-mile hike that goes to the base of the waterfall where the whitewater churns and the surrounding area is lush (just watch your step—rocks can be slick!). If you go on a weekend, get there as early as you can … crowds do arrive to share in the awe.

Follow the trail down via a short and gentle switchback to the base, where the mist from the falls wets your face. Keep going a few minutes downstream and across the Rainbow Bridge, then back up on the west side of the falls. Burney baby, Burney!

MEET IN REDDING: Have your next group gathering or meeting in sunny Redding.

Discover lodging and deals plus venues, all ready to impress and ensure your group gathering or special event is ideal.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View

  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View

  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View

  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View

  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View