Burney Falls

Burney Falls is a waterfall in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, California, where water drops 39 meters (129 feet) over basalt cliffs in a wide cascade. The flow spans 76 meters (250 feet) across, with numerous springs emerging directly from the porous rock face to create additional curtains of water.

The state of California established the park in 1921 to permanently protect the falls and provide public access to the site. President Theodore Roosevelt visited in the early 20th century and described them in his accounts as noteworthy.

The name honors Samuel Burney, an early settler who lived in the area during the 1850s. Visitors often notice the cool microclimate near the water, which contrasts sharply with the dry air of the surrounding forest.

Several viewing platforms are accessible via paved paths that descend from the parking lot to the base below. Sturdy footwear is advisable since the paths can become wet from the spray.

Underground springs feed the falls with roughly 379 million liters (100 million gallons) of water daily, regardless of rainfall or season. This constant volume makes the waterfall impressive throughout the year.

Location: Shasta County

GPS coordinates: 41.01195,-121.65197

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:43