Explore McCloud’s Falls, Restaurants & Activities: Your Ultimate Guide

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Hey there, wanderer! You’re in the right place if you’re planning a trip to McCloud, CA and want to know the best dining spots and fun adventures around. I’ve explored the waterfalls, tasted the local fare, and uncovered hidden gems—so you don’t have to! Let’s Dig in. You’re about to discover how to build an unforgettable day around nature, good food, and small-town charm.

Here’s the quickest way to enjoy McCloud like a local:

• Eat: Grab a hearty breakfast or local burger in town
  
• Hike & Explore: Discover the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls
  
• Snack & Sip: Capture ice cream or coffee with mountain views
  
• Bonus Activities: Bike, fish, and stargaze—all in one trip
  

By the end of this guide, you’ll leave smiling, well-fed, and ready to plan your next escape.

So, while I’ve just mentioned the top four highlights you can’t miss, let me break them down and dive into what makes each one special, from mouthwatering meals to scenic hikes. Trust me, these are the gems locals rave about—and they’re all easy on your budget.

 Best Restaurants Near McCloud

Want to know where to eat before or after chasing waterfalls? First up on my must-try list:

• Sage Restaurant at the McCloud Hotel – Elegant farm-to-table dishes indoors and out, but only open for dinner.

• McCloud Meat Market & Tavern – Burgers and steaks with cowboy vibes.
  
• White Mountain Cafe – Casual comfort food (think burgers and coffee) inside the Mercantile Hotel

• Floyd’s Frosty – The ultimate sweet treat spot—hello, ice cream!

What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out

1. Local flavor & History

McCloud Meat Market is carried over from its original days as a meat market—cowboy hats optional.

Sage Restaurant sources local produce and invites guests to dine on the porch.

2. Laid-back, family-friendly vibe

White Mountain Cafe combines small-town charm with homemade comfort food, offering hearty breakfasts, lunches, espresso, and ice cream in a cozy, nostalgic setting.

3. Treat yourself

Remind yourself that no waterfall hike is complete without ice cream at Floyd’s Frosty.

Pro Tip: Call ahead for dinner reservations at Sage Restaurant—it fills up fast on summer weekends!

 Outdoor Adventures in McCloud: Trails, Waterfalls & Wild Skies

 1. Hike the Stunning McCloud Falls

• Explore Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls via an easy, scenic 4-mile loop.

• Each stop has a swimming hole if it’s warm enough—just no cliff-jumping (hidden rocks!).

• The parking lot is small and very busy in the summertime.

2. Bike & Trek the Great Shasta Rail Trail

• Rent a bike and ride miles of old railbed stretching toward Burney.
  
• Scenic, gentle terrain with numerous photo opportunities.
  Pro Tip: Pack water and a snack—it can get remote out there!

3. Water Fun at Lake McCloud

• Kayak, paddleboard, or fish on the calm waters of McCloud Reservoir.
  
• Easy shore access with mountain views everywhere.

4. Explore Historic Downtown

• Heritage Junction Museum and nearby shops offer a peek into McCloud’s railroad and lumber past.
  
• Quaint Main Street is perfect for browsing for souvenirs or a caffeine pick-me-up.

5. Evening: Stargaze & Sunsets

• Siskiyou County is a top-tier dark-sky location—perfect for packing a blanket and binoculars.
  
• Watch wildlife come alive at dusk by the river.
  Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight with a red filter—you’ll thank me when your night vision kicks in!
  

Your McCloud Adventure: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

That’s your go-to guide for mixing waterfalls, meals, and memories around McCloud Falls. Here’s the final scoop:

• Enjoy a variety of options, including burgers, farm-fresh fare, and ice cream.
  
• Explore easy hikes, lakeside fun, and small-town charm.
  
• Relax with sunsets, stargazing, or a cozy coffee stop.
  

Bonus Idea: Want to extend your adventure? Ashland is only an hour and a half drive away—perfect for adding theater, wine tasting, or more outdoor fun to your trip. Check out my post, 10 Top Things To Do in Ashland, Oregon, for ideas to keep your journey going.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth