Alamere Falls — Local services in Fairfax

Tidefalls are rare in the world of waterfalls: only ~30 exist across the globe, and in the continental U.S., Alamere Falls is one of just two. The waterfall itself, when viewed up close and in isolation from its broader context, is charming but not especially striking. However, when viewed more expansively—flowing from its freshwater origins over four tiers, with the last and longest cascade spilling onto the beach and outward to meet the saltwater surf—it is splendid, and all the more so given its rarity.

The National Park Service (NPS) strongly advises visitors against using the shortcut to Alamere Falls, citing crumbling cliffs, massive poison oak, and ticks, and instead recommends taking one of several longer but (supposedly) maintained trails. While the cliffside scramble is slippery due to the disintegration of fragile shale, it is very manageable (and fun!) if use you use your hands for stability as you maneuver your way down. With regard to poison oak and ticks, they are certainly potential hazards on the shortcut, but shockingly, the park-sanctioned trails can be even worse! In mid-May of 2019, large segments of the Coast Trail between Wildcat Camp and Ocean Lake were so thick with unmaintained growth that the trail was virtually invisible.

Tips: 1) If you take the shortcut, wear shoes with good traction and bring a pair of old gloves for the cliffside scramble; 2) if you take the beach route, check the tide schedule beforehand and wear waterproof shoes because even during low tide, there can be sections of the beach that are so narrow that you’ll need to do carefully-timed (but super fun!) sprints over wet sand to avoid being caught by waves breaking against the bluff; 3) to protect yourself from the brush (including spiky and/or poisonous plants, and ticks) on both the shortcut and the official trails, wear long sleeves, long pants, and protective headwear; 4) to prevent spreading any urushiol or ticks that may have gotten on your gear, bring a change of clothes and shoes for afterwards, and consider shielding your backpack with a removable cover; 5) the hike is around 8.5 miles RT if you take the shortcut both ways, over 14 miles RT if you take one of the official trails both ways, and 12 miles RT if you do a hybrid...

Beautiful hike! Long way: 13 miles Short cut: 8.8 miles What to wear: Long sleeves and pants, hiking shoes or tennis shoes with traction. Gloves for gripping on rocks. Walking sticks. Cap or hat. Snacks and drinks. WetNaps and hand sanitizer. Bathroom: only at the parking lot. There are four outhouse style toilets. There is no running water or sink to wash your hand.

Went on Saturday. started our hike at 10 AM and finish by 3 PM with couple of stops to rest and about an hour to take picture and have lunch. We took the shortcut way, but I’m a slow hiker so it still took us four hours. Our friend who have done it round-trip on the shortcut route did it 2 1/2 hours. Parking lot was full by 10 AM so come early.

The trail is sort of well-kept. There are different terrains from mud to rock to pebbles to dust and dirt roads. There is a little bit of climb here and there, but nothing too strenuous. Wear long pants and long sleeve shirt because there are ticks and poison oak.

If you want to take the shortcut way look out for a bunch of sticks and rocks after the 3rd lake on the right side. The shortcut way is best way to see the three other waterfalls on top of the main waterfall. you can also take the short way back to your car so you don’t miss the upper three waterfalls.

If you do decide to take the long way for more hiking, check on the tide schedule. if it’s high tide, you will be stuck by rocks because it’s 1 mile to the waterfall on the beach.

The shortcut way is a little bit more adventurous, and a little bit of climbing up and down rocks. If you are going to do the short way, please bring all the suggested gears above. Watch the video that I have up in here that shows you how steep it is to go down to the beach and to the waterfalls. Specially, on a misty day where the mist will actually become like rain and the rocks and sand are slippery.

It’s a gorgeous hike and I would do it again on a sunny day. we miss all the ocean view since that day was very foggy. people bring dogs, but you will have to carry your dog if you do the shortcut way because it’s very hard...

*National Park Service:: Please Officially Close the unmarked trail SHORTCUT

I had the pleasure of traversing a truly enchanting trail renowned for its breathtaking cliffside vistas and culminating in awe-inspiring waterfalls. Amidst the invigorating air and the symphony of nature, this hike offered not only a visual delight but also a refreshing escape into the wilderness.

However, as stewards of these natural wonders, it is imperative that we address a particular part of the trail that has raised significant concern. The shortcut, frequented by many eager to experience the waterfalls up close, has unfortunately become a victim of its own allure. The erosion along the crumbling rock face, amplified by high foot traffic, poses not only an environmental risk but a safety one as well. The shortcut/unmarked trail leading to the beach has eroded significantly now.

While many might be tempted to disregard barriers in pursuit of a more adventurous route, I implore fellow nature enthusiasts to consider the long-term impact of such actions. The integrity of the cliff is at risk, and by continuously treading on these vulnerable paths, we are diminishing the beauty and safety that we all cherish.

NPS*I kindly urge the park authorities to contemplate temporarily closing this specific section to allow for restoration and to ensure the safety of future visitors. A well-balanced approach between accessibility and preservation is essential for the sustenance of these magnificent landscapes.

Let us work together to protect and cherish this remarkable treasure so that generations to follow can revel in its splendor,...