Spring has arrived and it’s the perfect time to get outside! Lace up your hiking shoes and take a day-trip to one of these beautiful waterfalls right here in your backyard:
Beale Falls (Grass Valley) - These falls get their name due to their proximity to Beale Air Force Base. Also known as Fairy Falls, this is an especially lovely hike in Spring when everything is green. Just over five miles, this loop trail takes you over old pastureland and leads to three-tiers of waterfalls. The bottom tier is easy to get to and includes a great swimming hole in the summer. The middle section is also accessible if you don’t mind a little rock hopping. The upper tier is fenced off to protect hikers from the steep drop off. This hike is family friendly and dogs are allowed on a leash. Note: the trail is closed the last week of March and the first week of April for turkey hunting. Learn more + get directions here.
Rush Creek Falls (Nevada City) - Head out to Independence Trail West, the nation’s first identified handicapped-accessible wilderness trail, in Nevada City for a view of Rush Creek Falls. The path, which is made of restored wooden flumes that once transported water for hydraulic mining, travels along Rush Creek and is a must-visit for California mining history buffs. The path is ~5 miles total (there and back), family-friendly, and dogs are allowed on leash. Learn more + get directions here.
Codish Falls (Foresthill) - This 2.8 mile heavily trafficked trail in Foresthill, CA is great for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and bird watching and is best visited in early Spring before the creeks dry up. The falls are small, but incredibly beautiful. Bring a picnic to enjoy along the river! Note: the road to get in and out is about 15-20 minutes of rough terrain. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for access. Learn more + get directions here.
Lake Clementine Dam (Auburn) - Man-made waterfalls are cool too! Take the 4.5 mile round trip hike to Lake Clementine Dam in Auburn to enjoy beautiful views of the American River. You’ll also walk under the tallest bridge in California, the Foresthill Bridge! Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy by the falls or continue hiking and check out the lake. This hike is moderately difficult, family-friendly, and full of beautiful scenery. Cost for day parking is $10. Learn more + get directions here.
Hidden Falls Regional Park (Auburn) - Hidden Falls Regional Park offers 30 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, running, biking and equestrian riding. There are many scenic, well maintained trails to choose from in the park, but the Hidden Falls Trail is most popular and features a waterfall. This trail is good for all skill levels and dogs are allowed on leash. Note: Parking reservations are required on weekends, holidays and other peak days. Permits are not available at the park and must be purchased online before your visit. Learn more + get directions here.
Happy adventuring!