Top 10 Waterfalls in California
California is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the United States. From the towering cascades of Yosemite to coastal tidefalls, the Golden State offers waterfall enthusiasts incredible diversity. Whether you're exploring California's diverse border regions or staying within the state, here are the top 10 waterfalls in California you must visit.
1. Yosemite Falls - The Icon
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America and the crown jewel of Yosemite National Park.
Location
Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada Mountains
What Makes It Special
- Iconic symbol of Yosemite Valley
- Three separate sections: Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls
- Total drop of 2,425 feet
- Best viewed from Yosemite Valley floor
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) when snowmelt creates maximum flow. By late summer, the falls may reduce to a trickle or dry completely.
Viewing Tips
- Lower Yosemite Fall: Easy 1-mile loop trail
- Upper Yosemite Fall: Strenuous 7.2-mile round trip hike
- Best photos from Swinging Bridge or Valley View
2. Burney Falls - The Year-Round Wonder
Burney Falls is unique among California waterfalls for its consistent flow throughout the year.
Location
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, Shasta Cascade region
What Makes It Special
- Spring-fed waters ensure year-round flow
- 129 feet tall
- Theodore Roosevelt called it the "Eighth Wonder of the World"
- Misty curtain of water creates a magical atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
Year-round - This is one of the few California waterfalls that never dries up
Visiting Tips
- Easy 1-mile loop trail
- Multiple viewing platforms
- Swimming allowed in the pool below
- Wheelchair accessible viewpoints available
3. McWay Falls - The Coastal Gem
McWay Falls is California's most photographed waterfall, cascading directly onto a pristine beach.
Location
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur
What Makes It Special
- 80 feet tall
- Falls directly onto sandy beach
- Stunning ocean backdrop
- Accessible via short, easy trail
Best Time to Visit
Sunset offers the most dramatic lighting, but the falls are beautiful year-round
Visiting Tips
- View from Overlook Trail (0.6 miles round trip)
- No beach access allowed (protected area)
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
- Bring camera for incredible photo opportunities
4. Bridalveil Fall - Yosemite's Graceful Cascade
Bridalveil Fall is one of Yosemite's most prominent and accessible waterfalls.
Location
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
What Makes It Special
- 620 feet tall
- Wind often blows the falls sideways, creating a "bridal veil" effect
- One of the first sights visitors see when entering Yosemite Valley
- Sacred to the Ahwahneechee people
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) for peak flow
Visiting Tips
- Short 0.5-mile round trip hike
- Paved trail, mostly accessible
- Expect to get misted at the base
- Parking lot can fill quickly in peak season
5. McCloud Falls - The Triple Threat
McCloud Falls consists of three distinct waterfalls, each with its own character.
Location
Near Mount Shasta, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
What Makes It Special
- Three tiers: Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls
- Lower Falls: 15 feet, great for swimming
- Middle Falls: 50 feet, most scenic
- Upper Falls: 10 feet, peaceful setting
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer (April-July) for best flow
Visiting Tips
- 3.8-mile trail connects all three falls
- Lower Falls has picnic areas
- Middle Falls is the most photographed
- Upper Falls offers tranquil forest setting
6. Rainbow Falls - The Prismatic Wonder
Rainbow Falls earns its name from the spectacular rainbows formed in its mist.
Location
Devils Postpile National Monument, near Mammoth Lakes
What Makes It Special
- 101 feet tall
- Rainbows visible in the mist during sunny days
- Powerful cascade over volcanic rock
- Part of the San Joaquin River
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early summer (May-July) for best water flow and rainbow viewing
Visiting Tips
- 5-mile round trip hike from Red's Meadow
- Best rainbow viewing in late morning
- Combine with visit to Devils Postpile
- Shuttle required in peak season
7. Feather Falls - The Giant
Feather Falls is California's fourth tallest waterfall and sixth tallest in the United States.
Location
Plumas National Forest, near Oroville
What Makes It Special
- 640 feet tall
- Dramatic free-fall plunge
- Scenic canyon setting
- Less crowded than Yosemite falls
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-June) for maximum flow
Visiting Tips
- Moderate 9-mile round trip hike
- Overlook platform offers spectacular views
- Elevation gain of 1,560 feet
- Bring plenty of water
8. Illilouette Fall - The Hidden Cascade
Illilouette Fall is often overlooked but incredibly beautiful.
Location
Yosemite National Park, between Glacier Point and Nevada Fall
What Makes It Special
- 370 feet tall
- Remote location means fewer crowds
- Dramatic canyon setting
- Part of Illilouette Creek
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early summer (May-July)
Visiting Tips
- Best viewed from Glacier Point
- Requires hike to see up close (8+ miles)
- Part of the Panorama Trail
- Worth the effort for solitude
9. Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall - The Mist Trail Duo
Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall are two iconic waterfalls connected by Yosemite's famous Mist Trail.
Location
Yosemite National Park
What Makes It Special
Vernal Fall
- 317 feet tall
- Powerful cascade
- Misty spray creates rainbows
Nevada Fall
- 594 feet tall
- Dramatic free-fall
- Stunning views of Liberty Cap
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer (April-July) for peak flow
Visiting Tips
- Vernal Fall: 5.4 miles round trip
- Both falls: 6 miles round trip
- Expect to get soaked on Mist Trail
- Granite stairs can be slippery
- One of Yosemite's most popular hikes
10. Alamere Falls - The Rare Tidefall
Alamere Falls is one of only two "tidefalls" in California, cascading directly onto the beach.
Location
Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County
What Makes It Special
- Tidefall - waterfall flowing directly onto beach
- 30-40 feet tall
- Ocean backdrop
- Unique geological phenomenon
Best Time to Visit
Late winter and spring (January-May) for best flow
Visiting Tips
- 8.4-mile round trip hike (most popular route)
- Alternative routes can be shorter but steeper
- Check tide tables before visiting
- Beach access at low tide only
- Permits required for overnight stays
Planning Your Waterfall Adventure
General Tips
Timing
- Most California waterfalls peak in spring (April-June)
- Summer: Popular but lower flows
- Fall/Winter: Fewer crowds but may be dry or frozen
Safety
- Never climb on wet rocks
- Respect barriers and warning signs
- Strong currents can be deadly
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Layers (mist creates cool conditions)
- Water and snacks
- Camera with weatherproof protection
- Map and navigation tools
Photography Tips
- Morning light is ideal
- Use slow shutter speeds (1-2 seconds) for smooth water effect
- Bring neutral density filters
- Protect equipment from spray
Conclusion
California's waterfalls showcase the state's incredible natural diversity, from the towering cascades of Yosemite to the unique coastal tidefalls of Point Reyes. Each waterfall offers its own character and beauty, rewarding visitors with unforgettable experiences. For more California travel inspiration, explore our guide to states that border California and discover neighboring adventures.
Whether you're seeking iconic landmarks like Yosemite Falls or hidden gems like Illilouette Fall, California's waterfalls provide endless opportunities for adventure, photography, and connection with nature.
Start planning your waterfall tour today and discover why California is one of the world's premier destinations for waterfall enthusiasts. Remember to visit in spring for the most spectacular displays, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
Happy waterfall chasing!
