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Mill Creek Falls

Hilly forest trail to the top of a 75-foot waterfall in a deep gorge.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
5.3 km
Ascent
237 m
Descent
237 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2 km
Gradient
Mill Creek Falls Map

Mill Creek Falls plummets about 75 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Lassen Volcanic National Park. It’s formed where two streams meet at the top of a volcanic cliff, converging to a single vertical jet of water. The river then tumbles on down a steep-sided canyon.

Description

The hike goes through hilly and forest and meadows, reaching a few different overlooks of the waterfall. From the trailhead at Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, you’ll first go downhill through shady conifers and across a small stream. Then the trail takes a gentle incline and traverses hillside meadows, colored by the yellow blossoms and green leaves of mules ear plants. Further ups and downs lead through more forest, then a sharp dip downhill delivers you to the first view of Mill Creek Falls. The trees limit the vantage points of the waterfall, but you can continue on the trail to get another view from the top of it, looking over its sheer drop to the steep canyon below. This trail extends much farther to Crumbaugh Lake and Cold Boiling Lake, but most hikers turn around at the waterfall.

Source: https://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/hikingmillcreekfalls.htm

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and November

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area