McArthur-Burney Falls
Nestled in the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau, McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning 129-foo
type
State park
built
1920s
last used
Ongoing
length
5 miles of trails
capacity
Varies, reservation required on weekends and holidays
address
24898 CA-89, Burney, CA 96013, USA
metro
Not applicable
entrance
Main entrance off Highway 89
typical visit
2-3 hours
best time
Early May to late September
accessibility
Accessible trails and facilities
Overview
Nestled in the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau, McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning 129-foot waterfall. The park, one of California's oldest, offers a serene and picturesque setting for hiking, fishing, and watersports. The falls, fed by underground springs, maintain a consistent flow year-round, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water that plunges into a mist-filled basin. The surrounding evergreen forests and volcanic landscape add to the park's unique charm, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
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Location
History of the attraction
Scroll through two thousand years
Discovery
Pioneer settler Samuel Burney lived in the area, and the falls were named after him.
Settlement
The McArthur family arrived and settled in the region, becoming key figures in the area's history.
Preservation
Descendants of the McArthur family saved the waterfall and nearby land from development, donating it to the state.
Establishment
McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park was established, becoming the second oldest state park in California.
Increased Popularity
Visitation to the park roughly doubled, leading to capacity issues on summer weekends.
Trail Closure
A full trail closure occurred for nine months to address erosion and rehabilitate the trails.
Reservation System
A pilot day-use reservation program was launched to manage visitor numbers and preserve the park's natural beauty.
The story behind the attraction
McArthur–Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a testament to the enduring beauty of nature, where a majestic waterfall cascades through a lush, forested landscape. The park's history is intertwined with the pioneering spirit of early settlers and the conservation efforts of their descendants.
The Waterfall's Origin
Burney Falls is a 129-foot waterfall that emerges from underground springs, creating a constant flow of 100 million gallons of water per day. This unique feature ensures that the falls are a year-round attraction, even during dry summers.
The McArthur Legacy
The McArthur family, who settled in the area in the late 19th century, played a crucial role in preserving the falls. Their descendants donated the land to the state, ensuring that this natural wonder would be protected for future generations.
Geological Marvel
The park's landscape is a result of volcanic activity and erosion. The porous basalt rock retains rainwater and snowmelt, forming a large underground reservoir that feeds the falls and the surrounding streams.
Recreational Haven
The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the park, providing opportunities for long-distance hikers to explore the area.
“The water flows from hundreds of natural springs in the porous volcanic rock above, so the flow remains consistent year-round — roughly 100 million gallons per day — even in dry summers when California’s rivers are running low.”
“If there’s one place in the United States that reminded me of Iceland, it was my visit to McArthur-Burney Falls State Park. Its gorgeous 129-foot waterfall is one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen, with water flowing down in a silky, dreamlike way, from all sorts of nooks and crannies.”
Legends & side stories
The Spirit of the Falls
According to local lore, the falls are said to be the tears of a Native American maiden, weeping for her lost love. This legend adds a touch of mystique to the already enchanting natural setting.
What to see today
01Burney Falls
The 129-foot waterfall is the park's main attraction, with water cascading from multiple sources, creating a breathtaking sight.
02Falls Loop Trail
This 1.2-mile loop trail provides multiple viewpoints of the falls, including an overlook and a descent to the base of the falls.
03Headwaters Trail
A 0.71-mile out-and-back trail that follows Burney Creek upstream, offering a peaceful and accessible route with scenic views.
04Burney Creek Trail
This 1.31-mile trail connects the Lake Britton beach parking lot to a falls overlook, passing through a mixed coniferous forest.
05Lake Britton
A portion of the lake is accessible for swimming, boating, and fishing, with clear, cold water and a serene setting.
Visitor information
tips
Download maps offline before arriving, as cell service is limited. Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure a parking spot. Weekdays offer a more tranquil experience.
hours
Dawn to dusk, year-round
tickets
Day-use fee: $10 per vehicle, plus a $1 processing fee. Reservations required on weekends and holidays from mid-May to late September.
best time
Early May to late September, with weekdays being less crowded.
accessibility
Accessible trails and facilities, including the Headwaters Trail and the Burney Creek Trail.
getting there
Located off Highway 89, approximately 6 miles north of Burney, California. Driving distances: Redding (75 minutes), Lassen Volcanic National Park (50 minutes), Sacramento (3 hours), San Francisco (4.5 hours), Lake Tahoe (3.5 hours).
family friendly
Yes, with well-maintained trails and family-friendly activities.