Crystal Creek Falls

Are your pup and you looking for a great hike in California? Crystal Creek Falls is a great place to visit and offers numerous hiking trails to boot! Part of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, there is something for everyone here. 

Whether you are a novice, moderate or experienced hiker, there is a trail for you. Pick up the trailheads at the Whiskeytown Visitors Center, where most of the trails begin or connect to. The hikes are all pup-friendly and meander you through a diverse landscape on this 241,000-acres of land.

There are 6 easy trails, 16 moderate trails and 3 difficult-rated trails within the area of Crystal Creek Falls. The falls are situated on the west side of the Whiskeytown Lake and you can also access the Whiskeytown Falls from here. 

The shortest trail is called the Crystal Creek Falls Trail which only traverses 1/3-mile but is accessible by all. The path is flat, offers a picnic area with grills and a view of the falls! Take your newbie hiking pup here! Other trails will lead you to Crystal Creek Reservoir, Boulder Creek Falls, and Brandy Creek Falls.

Take your pick from the short Guardian Rock Trail at just over 1 mile in length to the Papoose Pass Portion of the Shasta-Trinity Trail which tops out at over 7-miles long! The moderate to difficult trails might require some additional skills for you and your pup, like climbing rock outcroppings, crossing ravines and ditches, and water crossings too. Make sure you plan ahead and bring needed supplies for these hikes as they do not offer water or restrooms past the visitor’s center. Check ahead to make sure no trails are closed due to repairs. Lots of wildlife will be found here so be sure to stick to the trail for your and Fido’s safety. 

Crystal Creek Falls is ready to offer you and Fido a pawtastic time together in the forests of California.