Cataract Trailhead — Attraction in Fairfax

Cataract Trailhead offers an exhilarating hiking experience with its challenging yet manageable terrain. The trail is not overly difficult, but its steep incline and substantial elevation gain provide a good workout for hikers seeking a moderate challenge. The descent, particularly over rocky sections, can be precarious, making hiking sticks a valuable companion for stability.

Waterproof shoes are advisable due to the trail's muddy conditions, enhancing the overall trekking experience. The trail is adorned with numerous waterfalls, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere that nature enthusiasts will appreciate. Starting from the top at Mt. Tamalpais Watershed, the journey unfolds into a waterfall haven, showcasing the beauty of cascading water as you progress down the path.

One consideration for visitors is the limited street parking, making it essential to arrive early, as the area tends to fill up quickly. The trail is not a loop but rather an out-and-back adventure, providing the opportunity to retrace your steps and admire the breathtaking scenery in reverse. Covering approximately 4-5 miles from the starting point to the bridge, Cataract Trailhead is a delightful excursion for those who relish the charm of waterfalls and the challenge of a steep yet rewarding trail. Overall, it's a captivating journey through nature that deserves to be...

We started our hike of Cataract trail trail from a different point, from Spring Rock Trailhead and walked towards Laurell Dell Pic nic zone. This segment of trail is pretty flat and easy. The second segment was continuing on catarct trail going down the slope towards cataract falls (magnificent and beautiful) and finally to the alpine lake and towards cataract fall trailhead where one could have alternatively parked and started the journey. This segment of the trail is also not that hard as you are going "downwards". It is however not ideal for those with joint/knee pain or mobility issues. The biggest challenge is coming back up from alpine lake towards Laurell Dell Pic nice zone as the entire path is uphill and includes lots of stairs and rocks along the way. So that means if you start from Cataract falls trailhead, you start the journey on an uphill and its more challenging start, then the return is more smooth as it's downwards.

Overall the out and back from Rock Spring Trailhead to Cataract falls trailhead took us under 3 hours and that includes stopping to take pictures and I would consider the trail of moderate difficulty for avid hikers.

I wish people with dogs were more respectful of rules and other hikers, and would keep their dogs on a lead (leash) as the trail is narrow and some folks are not comfortable with dogs coming so...

A great location for starting the relatively short hike up to Cataract Falls. There is some.parking right off the side of the road on Bolinas road. However, arrive early because the few spots available fill up quickly. The trail to the falls is only 0.5 miles, but involves a steady up hill through some rough boulder stairs. They can be more difficult on the descent if you have any issues with your knees. I chose to continue on to make a nice loop hike out of it. I went on to Cataract trail Laurel Dell road. Once I was past the Laurel Picnic area hikers were few and far between which is nice if one is looking to "get away" while hiking. I the. Connected up to High Marsh trail. That eventually leads to a high marsh area before connecting to Kent Trail. That trail provides a nice lunch spot at Serpentine knoll where you can view the north side of the Mt Tam spine with views of a couple of its peaks. I hiked Kent trail through some descent towards Alpine lake which connects with the Helen Mark trail. That led me.backnto Cataract Falls and the end of a nice 7.5 mile hike. Overall it took me about 3.5 hours with around 2000 ft elevation gain. There are plenty of shorter and longer options depending on your hiking level. As always I suggest one stays on the trail and don't forget to say hello to your fellow hikers. Enjoy...