Mossbrae Falls
A fairytale 52-ft. waterfall cascading into the Sacramento River, accessed via an adventurous hike along active railroad tracks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery and good river flow
Mossbrae Falls
Best Time
Lush greenery and good river flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fairytale 52-ft. waterfall cascading into the Sacramento River, accessed via an adventurous hike along active railroad tracks.
"It might just be the most breathtaking nature spot I’ve ever experienced."
Wear waterproof boots! 🥾
The trail can be wet and muddy. Waterproof boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
Check river flow levels 🌊
Avoid visiting when the Sacramento River has a heavy flow, as it can be dangerous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Beauty
Mossbrae Falls
A breathtaking 52-foot waterfall flowing over a lush, fern-covered cliff face into the Sacramento River.
Hedge Creek Falls
Near Mossbrae Falls trailhead
A unique waterfall you can walk behind, offering a different perspective and a great photo opportunity.
The Railroad Track Journey
Union Pacific Railroad tracks
The adventurous mile-long walk along the tracks adds to the mystique and sense of discovery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trail to Mossbrae Falls
Parking and Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear waterproof boots! 🥾
The trail can be wet and muddy. Waterproof boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
Check river flow levels 🌊
Avoid visiting when the Sacramento River has a heavy flow, as it can be dangerous.
Be train track aware! 🚂
The trail follows active train tracks. Be vigilant and listen for trains; they don't always sound their horns.
Park smart, at your risk 🚗
Parking is limited and often unofficial. Look for spots on Dunsmuir Ave or near Hedge Creek Falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear waterproof boots! 🥾
The trail can be wet and muddy. Waterproof boots are highly recommended for comfort and safety.
Check river flow levels 🌊
Avoid visiting when the Sacramento River has a heavy flow, as it can be dangerous.
Be train track aware! 🚂
The trail follows active train tracks. Be vigilant and listen for trains; they don't always sound their horns.
Park smart, at your risk 🚗
Parking is limited and often unofficial. Look for spots on Dunsmuir Ave or near Hedge Creek Falls.
Respect private property 🚫
The trail is on private land. Hike responsibly and leave no trace to help preserve access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mossbrae Falls for its breathtaking beauty and mystical atmosphere, describing it as a fairytale-like cascade. The adventurous walk along the railroad tracks is often cited as a worthwhile, albeit risky, part of the experience. While the lack of official access and parking is a drawback, the stunning payoff makes it a memorable destination for many.
"❤️❤️Such a beautiful and peaceful spot! The walk along the railway track was a little adventurous but totally worth it. Surrounded by nature, it felt calm and quiet the whole way. And then you reach Mossbrae Falls-wow. The water just flows down through the greenery like something out of a dream. It’s not a long hike, but the experience stays with you. Definitely one of my favorite hidden places in California."
Abhilash reddy
"You gotta railroad tie walk to get there and the falls are, allegedly, private owned but everyone does it and it’s really worth the work getting there. Lots of offerings there and it does feel mystical…"
Jack Morris
"Beautiful falls with only a small walk to get there. The walk is down hill on a dirt trail that starts to the left of the gazebo.
Theres some parking on the side of the road right after making the turn driving to the falls. Maps took us to the wrong place so again, look for the parking on the side of the road. It’s just off the freeway and around the bend."
kyle cooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route involves parking on Dunsmuir Avenue near the Cave Springs Hotel or by the Hedge Creek Falls trailhead. From there, you'll walk approximately one mile along the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to reach the falls. Be aware that this is private property and requires caution. +1
There is no official designated parking for Mossbrae Falls. Visitors typically park on the side of the road on Dunsmuir Avenue or near the Hedge Creek Falls parking area, understanding that this is at their own risk.
Many find success by searching for 'Parking for Hedge Creek Falls' on Google Maps. Follow the trail to Hedge Creek Falls, and then continue along the railroad tracks towards Mossbrae Falls.
The hike from the typical parking areas to Mossbrae Falls is about one mile each way, taking approximately 30-40 minutes depending on your pace and conditions.
While GPS can help you get to the general Dunsmuir area, it may not accurately direct you to the trailhead or parking. Following directions from other visitors or using landmarks like Hedge Creek Falls is often more reliable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Mossbrae Falls. However, the trail is on private property, and visitors are expected to be respectful and adhere to any posted guidelines.
Mossbrae Falls does not have an entrance fee. The primary considerations are parking and the inherent risks associated with accessing the site via the railroad tracks.
Mossbrae Falls is a natural attraction and does not have set operating hours. It is accessible during daylight hours, but visitors should exercise caution, especially in low light conditions.
Mossbrae Falls is generally accessible year-round, but conditions can vary significantly with weather. Heavy rains can increase river flow and make the trail more hazardous.
Due to the active railroad tracks and potential for washed-out embankments, Mossbrae Falls is generally not recommended for young children or those who cannot safely navigate uneven terrain.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best experience involves a mindful walk along the railroad tracks, appreciating the surrounding nature, and then marveling at the cascading falls. Many find it a peaceful and mystical spot.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended due to potentially wet and uneven terrain. Comfortable clothing suitable for walking is also advised.
There are no facilities, including restrooms, at Mossbrae Falls. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities in Dunsmuir before or after their visit.
Swimming is generally not advised due to the strong currents of the Sacramento River and the potentially hazardous conditions around the falls.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting on the falls, especially during sunnier months. However, early mornings can provide a more serene experience with fewer crowds.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The most iconic shots are from the railroad tracks looking towards the falls, capturing the cascade against the lush greenery. The area around Hedge Creek Falls also offers unique photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding landscape. A tripod can be helpful for longer exposures to smooth out the water flow, especially in lower light.
While there are no official restrictions, remember that you are on private property. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid obstructing any potential train traffic.
Experiment with different angles, perhaps from slightly lower down near the riverbank if accessible and safe. Capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the ferns can also add depth.
Spring offers vibrant green foliage, while autumn can bring beautiful fall colors to the surrounding trees. The falls are impressive year-round, but consider the light and water flow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Furthermore, parts of the path can be uneven or washed out, making it challenging and dangerous for little ones. While the beauty of the falls is undeniable, the inherent dangers of the unofficial trail mean that alternative, safer waterfall experiences might be more suitable for family outings. 🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
📸 Photographers
+1 Bring your wide-angle lens and consider a tripod for capturing the water's movement. Be patient, as the best light and fewer crowds can make a significant difference in your photos. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Access: The Railroad Tracks
This unofficial access means there are no marked trails or safety barriers. Sections of the embankment can be washed out, requiring careful footing.
Until then, visitors must weigh the beauty of Mossbrae Falls against the risks associated with this unique approach. The Mystique of Mossbrae Falls
+1 The falls flow directly into the Sacramento River, adding to the picturesque scene. Many visitors report a sense of peace and enchantment upon arrival, feeling as though they've discovered a secret natural wonder. The 'mystical' quality is amplified by the journey itself. The walk along the railroad tracks, while potentially hazardous, adds an element of adventure and exclusivity. It feels like a reward for those who seek it out.
Photography at Mossbrae Falls
Experimenting with different exposure times can also yield beautiful results; a slightly longer exposure can smooth the water into a silky curtain, while a faster shutter speed will freeze the droplets in motion. Consider the lighting conditions. Late afternoon can provide warm, golden light that enhances the colors of the foliage and the water. However, early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, allowing for more contemplative photography.
Don't forget to explore the area around Hedge Creek Falls, which offers a different, yet equally photogenic, perspective, including the unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfall. Remember to be mindful of your surroundings, especially the train tracks, and prioritize safety over the perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit