Gold Country — cliff jumping spot in Smith River, California
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Gold Country

Smith River, California · map view — photos in the app

About this spot

From Sacramento, head east on Highway 50 for 18 miles and exit at Hazel Avenue. Travel north on Hazel for 0.7 mile, then turn left onto Gold Country Boulevard and proceed approximately 200 yards to reach the fish hatchery parking area. Continue past this lot another 100 yards and turn right into a dirt parking zone with no fee. The jump site requires roughly a 45-minute walk along the bike trail. Alternatively, a paid lot ($5, self-serve) sits about a mile along the trail, positioning you 50-100 yards from the jumping area. Three distinct cliffs are available: the easternmost reaches 40 feet in height, with two additional jumps at 35 and 25 feet positioned to the left. This location functions primarily as a jumping destination rather than a swimming area. Only experienced swimmers should attempt jumping here due to a powerful and swift current that poses serious drowning risk, particularly for those unfamiliar with moving water conditions. The river has claimed lives due to poor decision-making and lack of river experience. Weak swimmers should either avoid this spot entirely or wear a flotation device, and never jump alone. Water depth is substantial throughout. Always bring others when jumping and remove all trash before leaving—the area supports salmon spawning habitat and requires protection from pollution.

Safety first. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Conditions — water depth, submerged hazards, and access — change constantly. CliffScout is community-sourced reference information, not a guarantee a spot is safe. Always assess the conditions yourself before jumping, and never jump where you're unsure. You assume all risk.