By Tanner Call
Just outside the town of Paradise is Magalia, California, a heavily forested town, home to both Paradise Lake and the Magalia Reservoir. At the southern side of the reservoir, water trickles through the trees and eventually down stream into a little creek that’s accompanied by a thin trail known as “Lil Falls Trail.”
The drive from Chico to Lil Falls Trail is short and sweet. Once you hop on Skyway it’s about a thirty minute drive to a pull off spot to park your car and begin the hike. You’ll see an old wooden sign posted on a tree indicating that you’ve found the starting point. From there it’s a few steps down off the road until you’re on the main trail approaching the herd of trees.
The full trail is just a tad under five miles out and back. The first three quarters of a mile are up above the creek where it’s out of sight but not out of sound. Although I usually favor the part of a hike where water is present, this was actually my favorite part. The trees stand tall and distanced a consistent length from one another providing shade over the trail, while allowing glimpses of sunlight to seep through the forest.
Once you’ve made your way to the creek, the trail will lead you side by side so you can see each of the miniature, or “Lil,” water falls that were created, some by man, and some by mother nature. There are a number of bridges that will help you across the creek, but for the most part there’s options for a trail on either side. Just know regardless of which side you choose the mosquitos will greet you either way. I had a rare rookie move and left the bug spray at home, don’t be me.
Lil Falls Trail is an easy yet gratifying hike. The sub-trails that branch off at parts of the trail present an extra opportunity for adventure. As far the Lil Falls, well they’re about as adorable as the name given to them.
Take A Hike 