Burney Falls – The Eighth Wonder of the World Sits Right Here in Northern California
Getting enough of the Northern California destination that President Theodore Roosevelt dubbed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," isn't possible.
We’ve spent a lot of time admiring NorCal’s king of all waterfalls, Burney Falls. We’ve asked the question “did Tarzan dive off of Burney Falls?” We also showed you it is possible to jump off of Burney Falls (although very, very dangerous and probably illegal). But getting enough of the NorCal destination that President Theodore Roosevelt named the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” isn’t possible.
Located just north of Redding between Lassen Peak and Mt. Shasta in California’s lava country, is famous for its 129-foot waterfall, which cascades from Burney Creek down into Lake Britton. The falls are a sacred place for the Pit River Indian Tribe, who have held ceremonial rituals here for thousands of years.
The year-round falls are formed by melting snow from Burney Mountain, which travels through underground streams before hitting solid rock and flowing back to the surface. Each day, more than 100 million gallons of water plunge over the falls.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Falls Loop Trail, which is a 1-mile hike to the base of the falls and back up. During the walk, you’ll see lava flows and fractured basalt — evidence of the region’s turbulent volcanic activity. After descending 100 feet into Burney Canyon, we’re rewarded with a cool mist at the base of the falls.
The 20-foot pool is quite popular with fishermen, who regularly pull in rainbow, brook and brown trout. Only artificial lures with barbless hooks are allowed, and the season runs from late April through Nov. 15. Swimming is discouraged in the pool, which maintains a chilly 48 degrees.
As the trail continues uphill, you’ll reach the top of the falls and circle back to the visitor center. The cliffs at the edge of the falls are unstable, so be sure to stay behind the fence!
If you want to stay the night, Burney Falls State Park has an excellent campground, with 128 sites, flush restrooms and showers. You can also book one of their 1- or 2-bedroom cabins, which are equipped with fire rings, propane heaters, picnic tables and bunk beds. Just note that there is no electricity, so bring along lanterns and your own bedding. At the Burney Falls General Store, you can stock up on grocery items, souvenirs and snacks.
Here are some of the best recent photos and videos of Burney Falls from Instagram –
