About this spot
From Redding, head east on Highway 299 toward Burney and turn left onto Big Bend Road. Continue for roughly half a mile until you locate the Hatchet Creek sign positioned before a small bridge. Leave vehicles in the gravel area and walk a short distance upstream to reach the falls. The water provides excellent swimming conditions and jumping opportunities with sufficient depth throughout—though early season (April) requires extra caution. This location attracts experienced jumpers who prefer it despite numerous alternatives in the region. You'll observe advanced maneuvers including gainers, backflips, and dives regularly performed here. A notable achievement at this spot includes a gainer executed from the tallest formation. Jump options range from a log spanning 1 to 45 feet in height, a smaller cliff at approximately 40 feet, and the primary cliff reaching approximately 55 feet tall.