Burney Falls

Burney Falls can be seen right from the parking area, but this scenic loop is a great hike for all levels of hiking ability. Heading out on this trail will take you to the base of this 129 foot tall waterfall. 

The Hike

Burney Falls has a 1.3 mile loop trail that takes approximately 30 minutes to hike (but potentially longer depending on how long you stop to take photos). Starting from the parking area, head northwest on the trail until you cross the river at the Rainbow Footbridge. From here, head south along the PCT until you reach a footbridge which will take you back across the river and to the parking area where you started the loop. 

Photographing the Falls

It's great to get a photo (or several) with whatever you have: phone, film camera, DSLR, etc. If you want to photograph Burney Falls up close, know that the spray coming off the falls is pretty intense—make sure you have a towel available to wipe off the lens between your shots. Best time to shoot is sunrise, sunset, and at night. For slow shutter shots you want less light so the falls aren't blown out. Also adding a polarized filter to your lens will help the pictures turn out better.

Camping

Looking for an overview of the camping and trail areas, take a look at the park map. From the side bar of the McArthur-Burney Falls State Park page, you can make cabin or campground reservations if you'd like to make an overnight trip or visit ReserveCalfironia.com. 

Key Questions

• Can I swim in Burney Falls? You can, but you may not want to. Even on warm days, the water is around 42 degrees fahrenheit. 
• Is there a cost to visit the falls? Day use fees for McArthur-Burney Falls are $8 to $10.
• Dogs are not allowed on the trails (only paved roads and campgrounds)