Spring is always such a beautiful season in Marin County with its wide expanse of land and forested areas. And what better way to celebrate the coming of spring than by enjoying a hike through the lush trails? Trails are even better if a surprise awaits you at the end, like a sparkling waterfall!

 

Take a look at some of our favorite hiking trails with waterfall endings!

 

Cataract Falls Trail

Cataract Trail, Stinson Beach, CA 94970

 

One of the most popular falls trails in Marin County, this trailhead is located just off Bolinas Fairfax Road. Enjoy a scattering of cascading waterfalls along the 3.3 mile trail as you follow Cataract Creek. Some sections of the trail are flat, and generally safe for kids if you want to bring them along. There are also a few numerous little wooden bridges cross the creek, and some areas of the trail are stair-stepped for easier climbing. A good tip is to try out this trail during winter and early spring, or after a rainstorm, as the waterfalls are fuller and more spectacular.

 

Cascade Falls in the Cascade Canyon Open Space Preserve

Cascade Dr, Fairfax, CA 94930

 

The Cascade Canyon Open Space Preserve trail ends at the 20-foot Cascade Falls, and is one of Marin’s favorite family hikes. It’s an easy out-and-back hike of 1.5 miles round trip, and the trail winds through Elliot Nature Preserve. Cascade Creek is one of a few places left with an active Steelhead Trout run, and Juvenile fish can be found in the upper ponds all year long. During the spring you can enjoy a profusion of wildflowers throughout the canyon.

 

Dawn Falls Trail in Baltimore Canyon

Dawn Falls Trail, Larkspur, CA 94939

 

Located in Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve, this 2.2 mile out and back hike departs from the edge of a residential Larkspur neighborhood and leads to Dawn Falls. Larkspur Creek follows along the trail and passes through an old fence line. The trail is an easy pace and is kid friendly, making it a perfect hiking experience for the whole family.

 

Fairway Waterfall in the Ignacio Valley Open Space Preserve

Ignacio Valley Open Space Preserve, Novato, CA 94949

 

Also known as Arroyo de San Jose Waterfall, the Fairway Waterfall is a seasonal waterfall which runs full force in the winter and spring. The trail to the falls is short and easy, highly convenient for kids and passing through a meadow and a small forest. The waterfall itself is about 30 feet high and is part of a series of waterfalls which are now fenced off and inaccessible.

 

Alamere Falls in Point Reyes

Alamere Falls, Bolinas CA 94924

One of only two waterfalls in California that empty into the ocean, Alamere is a dramatic sight and is well worth the visit. Deep within the Philip Burton Wilderness, the falls is at the end of a 13-mile trail and is not for the faint-hearted or kids. The cliffs are tall and the paths are narrow, making it a difficult trek to make. However, those who make it to the end of the trail are awarded with the spectacular sign of the water cascading over a cliff around 40 feet high onto the south end of Wildcat Beach.