10 California Waterfalls To Chase Across The Golden State

CALIFORNIA — As the summer days heat up, consider adding chasing waterfalls to your summer bucket list. The thundering sound of rushing water is seen by many as healing, and we've found ## of the most spectacular waterfalls to visit across the Golden State.

California measures 1040 miles long from north to south, and the most dramatic waterfalls can be found in the northern half of the state, even though a handful of beauties are still rushing in the Central and Southern California areas. Each waterfall was formed by millions of gallons of water rushing over rock, carving out canyons and dramatic landscapes, according to the National Park Service.

"Snow melts. Water drips and falls. From great heights in Yosemite, water flowing over rocks and off ledges is a thrilling attraction," the NPS.org website says. At waterfalls, birds and wildlife congregate, plants thrive, and people are beckoned by the rushing sound.

From well-known to lesser-known falls, hidden falls, and tide-falls, we've rounded up where you can find 10 of California's "can't miss" waterfalls.

1. Yosemite Falls: This iconic waterfall drops 2,425 feet and is one of the highest-reaching waterfalls in the world. Like many streams and waterfalls in the park, Yosemite Falls is fed almost entirely by snowmelt. Waterfall flow is determined by how much snow the park receives and when it melts. See it live on the Yosemite Conservancy Webcam.

2. Bridalveil Fall: The 620-foot waterfall is often the first waterfall seen by Yosemite Valley visitors and is known for its "characteristic light, swaying flow. "A short walk will lead you to the base of Bridalveil Fall, allowing you to get an up-close view of this often-windswept waterfall," according to the National Park Service.

3. Vernal Fall: The 317-foot waterfall flows year-round at varying speeds and widths. It is known for its "mist trail," where nearby hikers along the John Muir Trail can feel the spray from the water. According to the Park Service, the hike is "almost entirely uphill, you can appreciate views along the way, and during spring, when the water levels are at their peak, you can also glimpse Illillouette Fall from this first section of trail."

4. Burney Falls: In the Cascade Range, on the Modoc Plateau, rushes the 129-foot Burney Falls. It is not the largest or highest but is widely considered California's most beautiful waterfall. The falls flow at 100 million gallons a day, and visitors can rent a cabin or tent camp in the state park, located northeast of Redding.

5. McWay Falls, Big Sur: A ribbon of rushing water that falls 80 feet in beautiful Big Sur is a must-see, just off the Pacific Coast Highway. It is considered a "tide-fall" within the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

6. Rainbow Falls: Within the Devil's Postpile National Monument and the Ansel Adams Wilderness near Mammoth Lakes, there is a rolling, five-mile roundtrip hike to Rainbow Falls. This hike can be hot and dry in the summer, so bring plenty of water. But, oh! That view, especially when the spray catches the sun.

7. Eaton Canyon Falls: Located in Pasadena, this 40-foot waterfall is in Eaton Canyon Natural Area, a scenic hike just under 2 miles roundtrip. Best seen in spring, when the falls will definitely have water, this is a popular hike with several stream crossovers.

8. Paradise Falls: If you find yourself near Thousand Oaks, head to Wildwood Park to see this 70-foot waterfall. A 4-mile hike will lead you in a loop along the Arroyo Conejo to the waterfall. Take note that some areas are overgrown, so watch for signage leading to the waterfall. As of May, the falls were rushing into the lake below, but swimming is prohibited here. Find more information on the Paradise Falls Trail here.

9. Big Falls: Near Forest Falls in the San Bernardino National Forest, An easy trail will take you on an easy hike from the Mill Creek Visitor Center. According to the Forest Service website, the Big Falls trailhead will be the first main parking lot on the left, immediately before the picnic area.

10. Holy Jim Falls: Inside the Cleveland National Forest, hikers can climb the 3.4-mile trail to view these Orange County falls. "Great for family and beginning hikers, with mountain biking being very popular going up to Santiago Peak. The cooler months are the best times to go to avoid the high temperatures and increase the potential for running water in the creeks (during a wet year)."

So, put on your hiking boots, charge your cellphone, and fill your picnic basket to chase those waterfalls and bask in their beautiful glory.

If you go, send us a waterfall picture and a bit about where you were when you took it! We may feature it on Patch.com.