Feather Falls

Feather Falls is the most spectacular sight I've seen in the Chico area so far.

The hike gives you the choice of two trails. The lower trail is shorter but steeper. The upper trail is, you guessed it, longer but more easy-going. I've made it to the falls twice now, both times making a loop of the lower trail on the way there and the upper trail on the way back. Works out to a nice 8-mile or so (round trip) walk. Both trails are beautiful with creeks, huge trees, ladybugs, and pretty ferns.

Having now worked on a trail, I can see that a lot of love went into this one. Someone really wanted you to be able to see the falls in all their glory, and be safe at the same time. This picture was taken perched on a huge wood platform built out over the cliff.

Feather Falls is something like the 3rd largest waterfall in the U.S. It just barely fit in the lens of my little camera. It's also very old. The geologists say about 140 million years! Apparently the rocks it falls over are very resistant to erosion.

The hike to Feather Falls is something that can be done in an afternoon in a t-shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. You can bring your dog, just look out for ticks. I would recommend at least bringing a lunch to enjoy on the platform while you listen to the roar of the water. If you're more adventurous try camping out there under the stars.