The McCloud River has three falls within two river miles of each other, each with its own distinct personality. Lower Falls is a busy family swimming hole, complete with a metal ladder to assist jumpers and divers as they exit the chilly water. Middle Falls is one of the most spectacular river falls in Northern California — wide, powerful, and commanding — and lures photographers and the hardiest of swimmers. Upper Falls is exotic-looking, a narrow funnel of water that drops into a circular turquoise pool, but it's difficult to view.