Hedge Creek Falls (California)

Hedge Creek Falls is an ethereal waterfall located right next to I-5, making it a great stop when driving through Northern California. In fact, these falls narrowly escaped demolition during the construction of the interstate! Thanks to the strong opposition of local residents, the highway’s course was altered, preserving the waterfall for generations to enjoy. 

When you visit this place for yourself, you’ll understand why it is so beloved. You’ll have the unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfall through a natural alcove and admire the area’s intriguing geometric rock formations. 

In this guide to Hedge Creek Falls, I’ll provide logistical details for your visit. I’ll also suggest nearby attractions and hikes in the Mt. Shasta area.

For more places to explore in California, browse my California destination guides.

Origin of the Falls

Hedge Creek Falls has distinctive features shaped by volcanic activity. The water emerges from an underground reservoir, and lava flow is responsible for the creation of the cave behind the waterfall. 

The cave’s facade is composed of geometric basalt columns. Freezing and thawing of water within the rock’s crevices caused the lower section of these columns to fracture. The result is an impressive suspended frame around the waterfall.

Hedge Creek Falls Hike Information

It’s a 5 minute walk with moderate decline to get to the falls. The trail starts next to the gazebo. The trail is not paved, but I did see a group manage it with a stroller!

While the area around the falls would feel refreshing on a summer day, it’s not deep enough for swimming. 

The trail continues behind the waterfall and down another 5 minutes to the Sacramento River. There’s an observation deck next to the trail, and from there you can see Mt. Shasta in the distance. If you wait a little while, it’s very likely that you will see a train passing through the tracks on the other side of the river!

Useful Tips

• Limited phone service. Expect limited to no phone service on the trail to the falls. Download Google Maps of the area and hiking app GPS information in advance.
• Leave no trace. The local community worked hard to save these falls from destruction. Let’s do our part to preserve them as well! 
• Poison oak. Stay on the trail to avoid exposure to poison oak, which is pervasive in this area.

When to Go and Weather

Hedge Creek Falls can be visited year-round. The water flows in all seasons but is highest in winter and spring.

The weather can get very hot in the summer, and the falls can be a refreshing place to cool off. I visited in late November and the weather was pleasant.

The temperatures are very cold in the winter. If you’d like to visit in winter, make sure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. The trail may be covered in ice and snow. Chains may be required to drive through this area in winter.

Hedge Creek Falls Park Information

Hedge Creek Falls has no entrance fee and no specific opening hours. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.

Hedge Creek Falls Directions

The Hedge Creek waterfall is located in Dunsmuir along I-5 in Northern California. The falls are an 8 minute drive from Mount Shasta, and a 4 hr 30 min drive from the Bay Area.

The road to the Hedge Creek Falls parking lot is paved. Navigate to “Parking for Hedge Creek Falls” in Dunsmuir, CA. The parking lot has a port-a-potty only.

The falls are very popular and it may be challenging to find a parking spot since the lot is small. However, turnover is high since most visitors do not stay at the falls for very long.

What to Bring

• Good Walking Shoes (Women’s, Men’s)
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito spray
• Water and picnic or snacks

Where to Stay

Unfortunately there are no Hedge Creek Falls camping opportunities. The campground at Castle Crags State Park is the closest place to camp.

Accommodation nearby:

Budget: Cold Creek Inn

Mid-range: Mount Shasta Ranch Bed and Breakfast, Mount Shasta Resort, Strawberry Valley Inn, Inn At Mount Shasta, Mossbrae Hotel

Hedge Creek Falls Things to Do Nearby

Hedge Creek Falls Map of Nearby Attractions

There’s plenty of things to do near Hedge Creek Falls. I’ve listed some of my favorites below, along with their driving times. If you’d like some itinerary suggestions, check out my guide to the Mt. Shasta area. 

• Mossbrae Falls (5 min). Unfortunately at this time there is no official trail from Hedge Creek Falls to Mossbrae Falls, but works are in progress to build one.
• Castle Crags State Park (10 min)
• Mount Shasta city & Sacramento River headwaters (10 min)
• Lake Siskiyou (10 min)
• Ney Springs and Faery Falls (20 min)
• Castle Lake and Heart Lake (25 min)
• McCloud Falls (25 min)
• Mt. Shasta Bunny Flat trailhead (30 min)
• Lake Shasta Caverns (40 min)
• Pluto’s Cave (40 min)
• Burney Falls (55 min)
• Lassen National Park (1 hr 40 min)
• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon (2 hr 15 min)

Thanks for reading, and I hope this guide to Hedge Creek Falls inspires you to get outdoors! Are you planning to make a road trip sometime soon? Leave your thoughts and questions in the comments, I’d love to hear from you.

For more places to explore in California, browse my California destination guides.

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