Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir: Short Trail, Big Payoff
Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir: Short Trail, Big Payoff
If you only have half an hour in Dunsmuir and want to see something beyond the highway, Hedge Creek Falls is the walk to take. It is one of the easiest waterfall hikes in Northern California, and it starts just off the north end of town near I-5.
Where it is
The trailhead is at the north end of Dunsmuir, on Dunsmuir Avenue near the I-5 interchange. There is a small parking area and a short paved section before the trail drops into the canyon. Look for the signs for Hedge Creek Falls.
The trail is generally open year-round with free parking at the small lot near I-5 Exit 732 (around 506 Dunsmuir Ave). No entrance fee or permit is required. The lot fills on busy weekends and summer holidays, and ice can form on the path in winter—check conditions before you go. Early mornings are usually quieter.
What the walk is like
The trail is short, roughly a mile round trip, and goes downhill on the way in, which means you climb on the way back. Expect:
- A well-used dirt path with a few steps and switchbacks
- Shade from tall conifers most of the way
- The sound of the creek before you see it
At the bottom, Hedge Creek pours over a basalt ledge. The overhang behind the falls lets you walk behind the water, which is the part kids remember. Keep going a little further and you reach a viewpoint over the upper Sacramento River.
When to go
- Spring: highest water and the loudest falls.
- Summer: cool shade on a hot I-5 day.
- Fall: quieter, with colorful leaves along the creek.
- Winter: the trail can be wet, muddy or icy. Wear shoes with grip and skip it after a fresh snow.
Tips
- Stay on the trail; the rocks near the falls are slippery.
- Leashed dogs are a common sight; bring a bag.
- There are no services at the falls, so bring water.
- Allow 30 to 45 minutes including photos.
Pack out everything you bring, including food scraps. Wear a light jacket; the canyon can feel cooler than town. There are no restrooms or water at the trail, so come prepared, and wear shoes with good grip on the wet rock behind the falls.
Make it a Dunsmuir afternoon
Hedge Creek Falls pairs well with a walk through downtown and along the river. If you want a longer hike, Castle Crags State Park is a short drive south; see our guide to restaurants near Castle Crags. For more ideas, read our history of Dunsmuir.
After the climb back to the parking lot, Yaks is a short hop down Dunsmuir Avenue. The full menu has burgers and barbecue if you timed the hike around lunch or dinner.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Hedge Creek Falls trail?
Roughly a mile round trip, downhill on the way in and uphill on the way out.
Can you walk behind Hedge Creek Falls?
Yes, there is an overhang behind the falls. The rocks are slippery, so watch your step.
Is Hedge Creek Falls good for kids?
It is a short hike that many families enjoy. Keep kids close near the water and on wet rocks.
When is the best time to see Hedge Creek Falls?
Waterfalls are usually fullest in spring after snowmelt and rain, but the shade makes it a pleasant summer stop too.
Is there a fee to hike Hedge Creek Falls?
No. There is no entrance fee or permit, and parking at the small trailhead lot is free.
Where do I park for Hedge Creek Falls?
Use the lot near I-5 Exit 732, around 506 Dunsmuir Ave at the north end of town. It can fill on summer weekends and holidays.
Plan your stop at Yaks
Yaks on the 5 is at 4917 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, just off I-5. We are open 11:30 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Call (530) 678-3517 if you want to check anything before you drive, and browse the full menu to pick your burger before you get here.
Confirm holiday or special-event hours on our Google listing before you drive.
