Mossbrae Falls in California 2024

A hidden gem of Northern California

Best time: year round (best time: March–November)

Mossbrae Falls is one of the most beautiful sites in California. It flows into the Sacramento River in the Shasta Cascade area near Dunsmuir. The falls are 50 feet (15 m) high and 175 feet (53 m) wide. The upper cascades of the waterfall are covered by lush vegetation, which makes it especially scenic.

When is best time to visit Mossbrae Falls?

The Mossbrae Falls hiking trail is at its best from March through August. However, every time of the year can be a good one to witness those graceful cascades.

Mossbrae Falls facts

Mossbrae Falls is a series of springs bursting from the cliffs and raining down into the water. It consists of two primary clusters of spring-fed waterfalls. Several springs feeding the falls and the presence of the river beneath it makes one of the prettiest sights in the Shasta region. However, getting to the falls is still dangerous and technically illegal.

How to get to Mossbrae Falls

Mossbrae Falls can be found south of the lower section of Shasta Springs. One-mile (1.6 km) long trail to the Massbrae Falls goes along the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. After a tragic accident in 2011, it was determined that the path was unsafe due to proximity to tracks, so walking there is considered trespassing. Anyway, Union Pacific and the City of Dunsmuir have agreed to find a safer route to preserve public access to Mossbrae Falls. The alternate way to the fall lies along Angel Trail and Mineral Spring Trail in Shasta Springs. These are private properties owned by white water rafting from Box Canyon Dam and Saint Germain Foundation.

Where to stay near Mossbrae Falls

The waterfall is a long drive from major cities, so if you are on a tight budget, a nice idea will be to rent a campervan to camp right at the foot of Mount Shasta. Also, south of Dunsmuir, in Castella, you'll find Castle Crags State Park, an amazing place for camping, hiking, swimming, and more.

Mossbrae Falls is definitely one of the crown jewels in the Shasta Cascade region. Although the trip can be slightly dangerous, the short hike to the falls is definitely worth the risk!