About Potem Falls
Potem Falls is a named waterfall in Shasta County, California, located about 17 miles northeast of Bella Vista. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Devils Rock 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 40°50′20″ N, 122°01′42″ W (40.83877, -122.02833). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Potem Creek (stream, 0.4 mi), Constant Flow Gulch (valley, 1.0 mi), and Cow Canyon (valley, 1.2 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Hatchet Creek Falls, 5.2 miles to the northeast.
More Photos
245 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Potem Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Potem Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Los Angeles time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Potem Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Potem Falls holds a 4.8 average from 109 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Potem Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Potem Creek — stream, 0.4 mi
- Constant Flow Gulch — valley, 1.0 mi
- Cow Canyon — valley, 1.2 mi
- Bear Canyon — valley, 1.6 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 40.83877, -122.02833. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Potem Falls
- Bear Creek Falls, CA22 mi south
- Burney Falls, CA23 mi northeast
- Upper Falls, CA28 mi north
- Lower Falls, CA28 mi north
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Potem Falls located?
Potem Falls is in Shasta County, California, about 17 miles northeast of Bella Vista. Its coordinates are 40.83877, -122.02833 (40°50′20″ N, 122°01′42″ W).
What town is closest to Potem Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Bella Vista, CA, about 17 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Potem Falls?
The closest is Hatchet Creek Falls (5.2 mi northeast). Others within reach include Montgomery Creek Falls (5.2 mi), Lion Slide Falls (7.4 mi), and Lion Wash Falls (7.8 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Potem Falls?
Potem Falls appears on the USGS Devils Rock 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.