Cataract Falls

A nice hike, but the top is an anti climax of a few picnic tables and a field. Mostly you will find a well erned sense of accomplishment. Well signed and as maintained as we get in this time of reduced park budgets. The trail junctions are clearly marked. Expect to do nothing but climb. There are very few level spots, if any. The climb is 3.2 miles and 1,100 feet up. The signs do not mention altitude. The trail has sections of wooden steps, of a few types , and many with a railing that has seen better days. There are other stairs made of stones. Some of the dirt trails have stone and tree roots making them very irregular. This is not a trail for someone who cannot walk with dexterity. There are spectacular views of stream gullies and the waterfalls. The waterfalls are low flow with high drops. The forest cover seems to be mostly regrowth. There are some redwoods, but this is not a redwood area. Most of the trees are leaf type with some pines in there. It is very nice with a healthy forest floor with many ferns, sorrels and the other normal California plants. Few if any manzanita or madrone. Near the top you might find it to be "raining" as a side effect of trees catching the mist. There may be an orographic effect in play. Have a jacket able to handle the wet and cold. On the way up you will probably be packing that jacket because the climb is a serious workout. Coming down is also a lot of work given the irregular state of the steps and trails. I am mixed minded about it. Not sure that I would do it again. Depends the weather. Up and down is a good 6 mile workout.

Beautiful scenic trail. We didn’t get to hike as much as I’d like due to having kiddos, but what we did get to do was still beautiful and definitely had my heart racing. There are stairs through some areas as it is uphill. Some nice areas to stop at and take pictures.

Great trail with lots of shades. To laurel dell picnic area is about 3 hours round trip, first 0.5 mile is steep the rest is super chill

A nice trail from the beginning with lots of shades and beautiful lakes. Lots of dogs and kids. Still a little challenging but you can always rest for a while. Dogs can even swim. No clear sign to indicate which is Cataract Fall. Not easy to find a parking space though.

Beautiful trail with gorgeous waterfall views almost all trail long, and lush moss covered trees. Muddy this time of the year, after rains! Parking was challenging to find in the afternoon. The trail is strenuous giving constant climb and elevation gain but totally worth it. The drive through Mt Tamp till the trail head is gorgeous!

There are several directions from which you can explore this place. Today, we arrived from the side near the water dam, which offers a scenic route filled with varied landscapes that evoke a sense of calm and peaceful tranquility. Many cyclists also share this experience, so be prepared to exercise caution while on the road. Parking can be a bit challenging, but since there is only one road, getting lost is not an issue. The climb to the waterfall provides captivating glimpses of the stream as it bends and turns from side to side. After about a mile, the lake becomes less visible, allowing for a full immersion in the surrounding quietness. I will definitely return here again. Many visitors brought their dogs; however, the terrain is not really suitable for them, and I noticed several owners carrying their pets instead.

Be aware there is basically NO CELL SIGNAL there. So download the trail map ahead of time. Great place to hike a few days after the rain to experience the waterfalls. Be prepared with at least a bottle of water and a few good snacks. A complete loop on the assigned trails is 6 miles. To do the whole loop, you are looking up to 6 hours…..this coming from an amateur hiker like myself. Good portion of the day. Recommend hiking shoes/boots especially after it has rained a few days prior. Many parts of the trail have gentle ups/downs, also will encounter some steep inclines/decents. Views of the falls along the way and creeks are great. Plenty of photo ops/rest areas along the way.

Fairly easy to access if you start from the trailhead near the Alpine lake. Short trail runs along the lake which will soon take you to the falls and the creek. The parking was limited so you’d want to get early in the morning if you’re visiting on weekends.