Sandy beach
No
Cliff jumping
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Sensitive Habitat
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Situated in the lee of Mount Shasta’s southeast facing slopes flows the upper reach of the McCloud River, and a particularly picturesque section of three waterfalls known as McCloud Falls. The furthest downstream of the falls, called Lower Falls, offers an easily accessible and when hot out, immensely popular, stretch of river idyllic for swimming. 

Lower Falls swimming hole area is concentrated around the falls itself, which drops approximately 15 feet into a pool below. The pool and surrounding bedrock is popular for jumping with mild heights ranging between 10 and 20 feet. A wooden jumping platform has been constructed on the accessible edge of the pool, serving as a directional guide to the recommended jumping location. Upstream from the falls is a section of calm water with multiple smaller pools great for families or those looking to relax on a warm summer day.

Lower Falls sees quite a bit of traffic as it is the most accessible of Lower, Middle and Upper Falls, it serves as the trailhead for the McCloud River Three Falls hike, it offers a day use picnic area and is adjacent to Fowler's Campground. Despite the regular summertime crowds, the area is beautiful and worth a visit and dip when in the area. Please make sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and lend a helping hand by cleaning up any trash you see when visiting the McCloud River area.

Logistics + Planning

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Near Mount Shasta. Easy access. Family friendly.

Cons

Easy access makes results in crowds.

Location

Nearby Adventures

Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area, California
Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area, California
Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area, California
California, Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area
Mount Shasta + Medicine Lake Area, California

Comments

Enjoyed the hike at McCloud, CA
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