Cataract Falls
Hiking area · Marin County ·

Cataract Falls

Hiking area · Marin County ·

Scenic waterfalls along a forest trail with steep climbs

dog friendly
lots of steps
lots of shades
beautiful lakes
beautiful sights
beautiful scenic trail
kids friendly
nice areas to stop
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null
Cataract Falls by null

Information

Cataract Trail, Stinson Beach, CA 94970 Get directions

Information

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Cataract Trail, Stinson Beach, CA 94970 Get directions

+1 916 653 6995

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Last updated

Jan 28, 2026

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13 Best Hikes in California

"I followed Cataract Creek through a primordial forest of redwoods, live oaks, and Douglas firs on the Cataract Falls Trail and passed numerous small waterfalls; spring brings wildflowers and full chutes, summer offers cool shade under the trees, fall showcases magnificent bigleaf maple foliage, and while the trail isn't very long there are some steep climbs so I recommend good hiking boots." - Eric Rosen Eric Rosen Eric Rosen is a Los Angeles-based journalist with a focus on luxury travel, loyalty programs, food, and wine. He is a regular contributor to Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and Afar, among others. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/nature-travel/best-hikes-in-california
Cataract Falls

Ketav K.

Google
An amazing hike. Beautiful falls and beautiful sights. Lots of steps and rocks. Great for dogs our dog was very happy. Amazing food nearby nice hike. Great spot.

Tabatha A.

Google
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.

Casburn S.

Google
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.

Xiaoyu S.

Google
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

Arshita J.

Google
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!

Denny L.

Google
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.

Yuta H.

Google
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.

Calvin C.

Google
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.