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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
183 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-6h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

McCloud River Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The McCloud River Trail is an epic one-way adventure in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest that boasts wonderful scenery. Wander along the forested banks of the beautiful river that is decorated with several mesmerizing cascades for our enjoyment!

Route Description for McCloud River Trail

The McCloud River Trail is an awesome adventure that will not disappoint. Easy-going and impressively scenic, this route rewards its conquerors with hypotonic waterfalls and enchanting forestlands. The beauty of a one-way route is the diversity of scenery, and the McCloud River Trail delivers just that. Open year-round, intrepid spirits can explore this trail in the winter months alike with a pair of snowshoes! Just don’t forget to leave a car or arrange for pickup at the trail’s end!

Setting out from the Middle Falls Trailhead, the McCloud River Trail travels south to the Middle McCloud Falls, which are arguably the most impressive cascades in the collection. From here, you will be guided to the Upper McCloud Falls, which is smaller, surging through a crevice in the granite cliffside. Enjoy the scenery, then continue trekking along the Upper McCloud River Trail, heading east along the forested banks of the beautiful river.

Follow the winding route along the curves of the river and through multiple campgrounds. Trekking the Upper McCloud River Trail, you will ultimately be delivered to the trail’s end at the Algoma Campground, marking the end of your adventure.

Getting to the McCloud River Trail Trailhead

The McCloud River Trail departs from the Middle Falls Trailhead off Upper Falls Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Several Camping Opportunities Along the Trail

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    One Way

McCloud River Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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