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Alamere Falls
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74 reviews for Alamere Falls
74 reviews in English
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Review from Michelle Z.
Berkeley, CA
2/16/2012
Gorgeous water fall!
I've only been to Alamere Falls once, but it's just such a beautiful place to be. The waterfall starts from the end of the trail that takes you there, and slowly makes it's way down a series of mini-falls until the final giant waterfall that leads into the ocean.
Depending on when you go in the season, the waterfall will look different. When I went, which was around April/May, the waterfall was gushing with water, and after a long sweaty hike, it was nice to dip my feet in the ice cold water. I've seen pictures of friends going earlier in the season, when there's not as much water.
Bring snacks, head for the falls early, and spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying this gorgeous view! It's along the shoreline so you can walk along the shore and just be at peace. -
Review from Rosalind S.
San Francisco, CA
4/21/2012
Wow, what a awesome hike today! BF and I started our day at 7:30 to make our drive out to Marin and arrived and ready to go at 8:30am. We had our choice of parking spot, used their facilities which you should note is kinda gross.
Wear long pants folks! There's poison oak or ivy everywhere and the paths can get very narrow. The hike has a nice combination of ups and downs and shade and sun. We happened to go on a day where the weather was awesome, (it was 80 degrees in the city), so starting early was totally key to beating the heat.
The very last part of getting down the cliff is pretty hairy. Everytime someone climbs down the cliff erodes a little more and over time I see them reinforcing the wall or even building steps. But be careful because you can easily eat it with the loose gravel and the drop to the beach.
Once you're there it's awesome. I've never seen a waterfall on a beach before. Oh, and by the time we were heading back, hordes of groups were just making their way out. We had the whole beach to ourselves and even sat there for almost 30 mins without seeing another person. So totally worth it to wake up early and get the hike done by 2pm. And we returned to an over packed parking lot too. -
Review from Fiona C.
El Cerrito, CA
3/6/2012
came here this past weekend and man was it the perfect time! got to the parking lot by 11am and the parking lot was FULL, I had to park along the side of the road.
this hike is no longer a secret! there was constantly people in front and behind me throughout the trail. its a pretty easy trail...couple of inclines but nothing too major. the beginning part of the hike is really pretty because you're hiking along the coast. middle part of the hike is kinda boring...you don't see much... then the last .5 miles of the hike is the best! walking down to the waterfalls....and then you gotta slide down the rest of the way... kinda scary...kinda rough... but definitely worth it!
to get down to the beach you definitely need to have guts. there's a rope that you gotta hold on to...as if its your life line...going down back wards is probably the easiest and safest way...and then on the way back...you really gotta jump/ hug the rock to get back up.
if you're fit then this is a walk in the park for you! if you are unfit and suck at walking up hills this might be a small challenge but VERY DO-ABLE.
you definitely gotta work for the view but it is worth it!
-saw lots of kids doing the hike and people over the age of 40. -
Review from Michael C.
Berkeley, CA
2/26/2012
Do your research on how to get here, study up on the other reviews, and you'll be fine. Don't go in expecting a life-altering waterfall viewing, it's impressive but not IMPRESSIVE. Still a great hike though, and a very unique experience.
My ambivalence about this place hinges on the fact that I first read about it on a Yahoo! article about the "Most Secluded Beaches in the U.S." I was excited for an introspective hike to a private beach, but the trail and the beach were crawling with people. Not sure whether to blame Yahoo! for misleading me or myself for believing the article.
Hike is fairly easy, no steep grades, and the trail is well-worn. The "unmaintained" portion of the trail to the actual falls was nothing to fret about, as so many people travel it (it's just a little more narrow than the main trail). It can get windy, as you're near the coast, so make sure to dress appropriately. -
Review from Jordan M.
San Francisco, CA
1/30/2012
Great Hike, very long, not for the elderly or wounded. Amazing destination, definitely worth it. Seven places water falls, the last drops at least 40ft to the beach, where you can easily find california jade, agates, gas agates and great fossils. Bring your tie dye and your water, but not your dog, at least not when there are rangers there (weekends). Oh yeah, the climb down to the beach is really a Serious Climb, but what a great private beach to hike to.
freak freely,
jm -
Review from Jackson Q.
San Francisco, CA
3/12/2012 8 photos
These falls are pretty decent. Honestly though, not worth the ~7 mile hike, which doesn't lend much as far as scenery goes along the way. Do it once, but not worth doing again in my opinion.
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Review from Brady L.
San Jose, CA
1/6/2012
A truly wonderful place to go hiking. Besides the dampness of Mother Nature crawling up your spine as you enter the trail, you can feel the crispness of the air as you breathe. During the fall, the dew lingers as a few beams of light shine through the canopy of the trail. At the end of the trail, there is an amazing view from the top of the beach, and as we descend, there is an even more graceful waterfall falling into the ocean.
Though, the trail isn't for the weak-hearted. My friend nearly drowned in the ocean doing stupid things, and he trail back was horrendous. He wasn't fit to begin with, and we nearly had to call the ambulance. Of course, our situation in particular was rare, but nonetheless be prepared for all hiking trails. It's nice, beautiful, and definitely one of a kind, but it's not for everybody. Happy hiking! -
Review from Jocelyn T.
Hercules, CA
9/11/2011
Alamere falls is soooooo amazing! I've been here twice in the month of august. First time here, we had a backpacking trip where my hike started at palomarin trail to wildcat camp which is a good 5.5 mile hike.
The next day we hiked from wildcat to alamere falls which was about 2.4 miles. Once you brave thru the unmaintained trail to the falls, you come to this panoramic view of the pacific ocean and bam, you see the first waterfall but wait... It doesn't stop there, there's another waterfall and then another big one that goes out to the ocean. Before hitting the beach, you must brave thru climbing down a small cliff. make sure you have someone there to spot you down so don't get hurt. What's great is if you are camping at wildcat, you can just walk along the beach to get back.
My second trip was just as amazing as the first, this time we saw the sun coming out AND back at wildcat camp along the beach, we got to see the most amazing thing! Phytoplankton all over the place at night! We saw the beach glow as we were walking, saw our footsteps glow and saw the ocean glow when the wave hits. I felt like I was in a Avatar movie! I can't wait to come back here again to bring out of town guests! -
Review from Stefanie S.
San Francisco, CA
8/15/2011
Two city girls decided to be wild and hike on a Monday morning/early afternoon. The hike itself was amazing: gorgeous view, blue skies, gentle breeze. We brought water, sandwiches, and snacks. I was smart enough to also bring a light jacket + pants to put on when going down to the falls.
PROS:
The hike was not bad at all, I've been on steeper and rockier trails. Just keep on the main trails and you can't miss it! When given the option at the fork continue left towards the Wildcat Camp. We started our hike at 11:30am and reached the falls around 1:00pm. We stayed for 15 minutes eating and headed back to our car, we left the area for home around 3:00pm. Not bad for our first real 8 mile hike.
If we weren't in a rush for time (I had to be back home by 4:30) I would have loved to head down to the beach area to take a look around. We settled for beautiful pictures of the landscape.
People are friendly. I love friendly people.
CONS:
I hated the drive to get here. It is windy and many roads were unmarked. We were always second guessing where exactly we were going and thought we were lost most of the time.
No reception at all. I recommend printing maps and definitely do not rely on your cell phone for directions.
Unmaintained trail SUCKS. It's not that there's so much brush, I had a problem with all of the poison ivy that is at the end of the trail. We had to walk through about 5 clumps of trees and bushes and the last group of plants had so much poison ivy. It did look a little scary before venturing down but I am glad we did. My friend did not! She was scared the whole time. I don't suggest kids go through this. -
Review from Jesse K.
San Francisco, CA
2/5/2012
Amazing trail with an incredible destination!!!!
To preface, I am fairly new to really hiking and climbing around. This was my third of fourth 8+ mile hike.
The maintained trail was great. Beautiful lakes along the path, some long steep parts, but they were great!! The unmaintained trail to get to the falls was AWESOME!! It felt like we were hiking through Brazil. Gorgeous and peaceful the entire way!! The falls themselves are AMAZING!!! By far the coolest place I have ever hiked to. I will be back many many times!! The beach is a great place to kick back and relax a while before heading back!
The climb down to the beach is good. The rope helps, especially for newbies like me. There was one ledge to get over that was more difficult on the way up than it was on the way down. A little tricky and scary, but WELL worth it!!!
5 stars for sure!!!! I cant wait to come back!!! -
Review from Irina K.
Santa Clara, CA
1/18/2012
Such a beautiful hike! It's where the falls meets the ocean. I really enjoyed the hike (do a little of climbing or the beach), the views, ~2miles long so not too bad. I don't think there is anything like this anywhere else, if you're nearby, check this out during sunset!
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Review from Zane T.
San Francisco, CA
There are 2 waterfalls in California that drops into the ocean and this is the only one you can walk up to, the other one you cannot walk to because the cliffs are dangerous. Regardless this place is always breathe taking and a great place to hike.
Whenever I take newbies here, we always pack lunches and have a picnic on the beach and just enjoy the view. Best time to go is after a rainy day when the waterfall is just gushing. -
Review from Tom M.
Napa, CA
6/30/2011
Best hike yet!
Hike this on Monday June 27th, Palomarin Trailhead to Alamere Falls, I believe this is about a 6.6mile in and out and completely worth the drive from Napa.
Hike starts off near the coast and climbs and dips in and out of the woods. You do need to take an unmaintained trail about 1 mile until you reach the falls (at least the way I went) but it just made it more adventurous and incredible.
The trail passes a great little hidden pond about 1.5-2 miles in and then onto Bass Lake and Pelican Lake before you make it back to the coast.
You can get to the beach, the climb down is a little trick but I believe most can make it and it is very private (at least on weekdays). The views throughout the hike are amazing, multiple coastal views and then seeing the other lakes and moutains, trees, flowers, etc. is awesome.
Simply amazing hike, make sure you finish your hike with a stop at the Pelican Inn, yeah it's a ways away but worth it. -
Review from Jay F.
Saratoga, CA
4/12/2011 4 photos
The waterfall lives up to its billing as a tidefall. It plunges right onto the beach just feet away from the incoming tide. It might not be the worlds prettiest waterfall, but it has a unique and awesome setting.
That said there are some thorns to this rose. The trail is an 8 mile round trip... although it's graded well and not hard if you do any sort of regular hiking. What is a pain is the poorly labeled trail system. You start at the Palomarin trail head, but do NOT stay on the palomarin trail. The first signed junction you reach turn LEFT or you will go for an epic detour.
The final bit of the trail is not maintained and takes you through a dense thicket with a thin foot path. And to actually get down to the beach requires a precarious climb down some tumbly rocks. Be careful.
Over all this is a nice place to visit, but not for those who can't take a modicum of roughness. -
Review from Anita W.
San Francisco, CA
2/21/2011
In a word, HELLAMAZING. So good, I make up words because real words cannot describe the feeling you get when you make it all the way to the end at the waterfalls. The journey probably equates to The Shawshank Redemption, when Andy crawls five football field-lengths through a crap tube and makes it out at the end. Except of course the trail isn't prison inmates crap. Just dried horse dookie.
Tip: Do some research on tide levels the day you decide to hike here. Came here twice: first time great weather and tide was low, second time, great weather, but tide was so high it hit the wall so we couldn't hike down to the beach to see the grand finale. Oh and bring a camera!Listed in: Entertainment
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Review from Jeanie S.
San Francisco, CA
6/16/2011
Really nice 8mi RT hike from the Palomarin trailhead. Panoramic coastal views, some uphills & downhills, but not a difficult hike or (in my case) run.
Don't come here expecting a solo experience, especially on a beautiful summer day. The Palomarin trailhead parking lot was 3/4 full on a Monday afternoon. It's a VERY popular trail.
I'd recommend hikers bring water, a light snack, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and depending on your sensitivity to plant life, long pants & a long sleeved shirt. The trail is very exposed to the sun (and hot!) in some places, and very shaded in others. Apparently, there's quite a bit of poison oak along the sides of the trail. The thistles are also out in abundance (ouch) right now.
The short side trail to the falls is indeed narrow & unmaintained (overgrown). I was very thankful I'd worn long sleeves & athletic pants to protect my sensitive skin. The reward at the end of the vegetative tunnel was a gorgeous coastal view and the cascading water falling down from the cliffs to the beach below. I didn't take the trail down to the beach to see the main falls, but several other hikers did with no problems. Here's a good description of the hike from Bay Area hiker http://www.bahiker.com.... It's from 2005 but still very applicable. -
Review from boba p.
Foster City, CA
8/4/2011
This is my favorite hiking trail in the SF Bay Area (or anywhere). It is by far the most scenic and with best payoff. The waterfall/beach destination is the perfect spot for lunch/picnic.
The beach looks so pristine and you feel a world removed from the city.
The hike itself isn't difficult. About 8 miles round trip with a few hills. Much of the trail is along the coast. When you go inland, you pass by 3 lakes.
As others noted, the climb down to the beach near the falls can be slippery so be careful. Not recommended for little kids.
If there is one "con" for this hike, it's getting there. Coming from SF, you have to drive through the "reversal-inducing" winding roads to get to Stinson Beach. This drive takes forever and is also very congested on summer weekends.
After you pass Stinson Beach and into Bolinas, it is easy to miss the roads taking you to Mesa Rd. The turnoffs in Bolinas may not have signs. So slow down when you get there.
I recommend everyone try this at least once. You will be back. -
Review from ryan f.
Pittsburg, CA
2/2/2011
WOWEEEE!!!
this spot was like a quest (f you're into Warcrack). i'm from pittsburg and it took us about 2 hours to get there. you'll have to get in the north bay and on the 1, towards Bolinas. once you actually find yourself in the parking spot, you will begin your journey to see this amazing display of nature. here are some tips:
i've never been here and my dumb @ss wore my white tennis shoes....pretty much a no no since this hike will take you through some terrain as well as take you several hours (from start to finish). make sure your shoes are up to par.
give yourself about 5 hours to do it all. it is 8 miles total (round trip). it took us about 2.5 hours to get there since we were taking pictures and stopping by a lake (which was awesome). and about 1.5 hours to get back. we kinda ran out of daylight which was scary walking through the woods....which you should bring a flash light just in case.
bring lots of water.
i didn't really see any poison ivy, but from what everyone else says...there are some..so be careful.
bring some food. once we got to the actually falls, we ate some sandwiches there while looking at the awesome view.
camera
once you actually get to the falls area, you'll notice the tail gets a little tricky. be careful since the area is wet...and you will get wet. you'll find yourself at the end of the a cliff where the falls begin to go down into a stream, emptying into the pacific ocean. on a clear day, you'll notice how the endless ocean will take your breath away.
there is a trail on the other side of the stream where you can climb down onto the beach. be careful at this point since it does get tricky. once you're on the beach, enjoy yourself to one of bay area's natural beauty. we spent about 45 mins admiring the falls from the beach which we wanted to stay longer but time was an issue since it was going to get dark soon. you NEED to check out the falls from the beach. it's totally worth going.
this place just became one of my favorite places to go in the bay area. -
Review from Brydon M.
Vallejo, CA
4/2/2011 1 photo
For an out-of-shape guy like myself, the hike is a real pusher... WAYYYY longer than it looked on the map... But the falls are absolutely beautiful. Especially this time of year after the rains.
The scramble to the upper falls is completely passable. There are clear places to step your way down. The scramble from there to the beach takes some really good discernment and judgement. The rock is super flaky and I imagine that route gets a little bit uglier every day. Tons of people were managing it just fine though, so don't let it throw you.
This one has been on my "to hike" list for a long time, and I'm glad I finally took the time to get out there. I probably won't head back a lot, though:
I agree with some other posts that the hiking was a little monotonous compared to some of the other great opportunities in the area. The last push through shrubbery was nasty, I most surely have poison ivy to deal with now. And it's a bit of a schlep up Hwy 1 to the trailhead.
It's not that it's bad... It's just that I think there are more lovely woods to hike through in this area. The falls though are unique and well worth making the trip at least once.
(oh, watch the dirt road on the way to the trailhead too... It starts suddenly after the Coast Guard station and it's got some really rough patches that will sneak up on you if you're not careful.) -
Review from Adam D.
9/29/2010 1 photo
The Alamere Falls trail starts at the Palomarin Trailhead and continues along the coast for a few miles of breathtaking coastal views, and then detours inland a little bit to go by Bass and Pelican Lakes. Bass Lake had a bunch of people chilling on rafts or just swimming around in general. There's even a rope swing! Past Bass Lake is Pelican Lake, which is so picture perfect I thought I was looking at a PGA golf game for the Sega Genesis (I'm sure more recent golf games have been made but have no first hand experience).
As you near the coast for the final time (maybe a mile out) there's a sign for the "caution unmaintained" Alamere Falls trail. It's not as bad as it sounds, but toward the end you're definitely climbing down some crumbly rocks -- I'd use caution if you're taking kids with you. After that, you're treated to three waterfalls of various sizes, with the final one being the famous waterfall the flows DIRECTLY INTO THE OCEAN. Ever see that before? I hadn't.
One word to the wise: this is not the kind of beach where it's a good idea to strip to your boxers and run out into the ocean. It turns out there's a bunch of uneven rocks and a tide that looks safe from afar but feels a lot more treacherous when you're in it and dealing with the aforementioned rocks.
This is my new favorite trail in the Bay Area, hands down. Certain times of the year are better for waterfall (rainy season) but even in late September the trek was worth making.Listed in: Biking and Hiking
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Review from Adrian P.
San Francisco, CA
2/22/2011
Review for exercise enthusiast!!!
Absolutely beautiful views and a awesome hike. That said, it is not a trail that is going to push people in good to great shape. It is great to go run/walk and to enjoy the outdoors. Many reviews say it take 4 or 5 hours. A solid hiker can easily do this in 2 hours. Someone who likes to run trails can do this in an hour to hour and half.
The hike is not elevation challenging and there are no sketchy sections. That is unless you are going down to the beach after reaching the falls. It is pretty steep and the rocks become shale and a bit dangerous without the proper shoes and experience with handling your footing. The rocks also fall away erode aggressively, adding to the danger. I would suggest that most people not scale the rock face down to the beach.
Last but not least, Olema Bolinas Rd does not have a street sign currently, so really pay attention to the miles you are driving. Otherwise you will pass the turnoff from highway 1.
Anyway, again it makes for an amazing day with fresh air and breathtaking views. Something everyone can enjoy.
Cheers -
Review from Ron L.
Concord, CA
1/26/2011
This is a good outing if the weather is good on the coast. Here's the lowdown:
* Go to Bolinas, drive to the end of Mesa Road. Expect to drive a long way, fill up the gas tank before you leave civilization.
* 5 mile hike one way. Rolling hills, not steep until you get to the turnoff for the falls.
* Bass Lake is on the ocean side halfway up the trail. Good place to relax if you want to.
* A little hairy once you're on the short narrow trail to the falls: steeper, climbing down rocks, and a jump over the creek that leads to the falls. Kinda tricky getting down to the beach without slipping.
* If you can't go down to the beach to see the falls, the coastline is still drop-dead gorgeous.
A unique trail that you should do if you're up to it. -
Review from Jana S.
7/17/2010 7 photos
See Eddie H's review for very pertinent information before attempting this hike.
Just back from a full day of hiking with the most stunning views of Alamere Falls...one of only 2 waterfalls that skirt this state's coastline.. how lucky that one such resides in West Marin, just beyond the town of Bolinas.
8.6 mi RT, with most of the trail uncovered and not shaded. Do your skin a favor and put that SPF 40+ on your face like you're frosting it, and/or wear a hat! It was a glorious time for all!
It is true that at the end of Mesa Road (the desired trailhead for your trek, called Palomarin) resides much poison oak; it's pretty much ubiquitous, along the trail, at your ankles... so it would be advised to please wear long pants and doff them for shorts or swimwear when you get to the waterfalls.
This hike was one of the most gorgeous ones that I've attempted in a while; with views of 3 lakes, cliffs and drops that give way to foam-lined rocky shores below, and then the glorious gold treasure at the end: the waterfalls!
What a great way to spend a full afternoon of 4 1/2 hours of cardio and getting to know our group....thanks J and C! The trail, for the most part, is not too graded. There are patches where you'll find yourself challenged to keep talking and keep breathing! A few times, when I was just so winded, the partner to my side would remark that it's getting a little tough!
It's the last 40 feet or so that you'll find yourself doing a boot-scootin' boogie with the dry, dusty dirt. Easy to slip and challenging to get a firm foothold, just better to lower that center of gravity and crouch to descend... particularly the last leg of the descent (beyond the first trickles), just before hitting the sandy/rocky beach....take care, and take your time!
I spotted folks swimming in the lakes, floating, sunning, and people were frolicking in the waterfall to cool down after the hike. We enjoyed some more conversation and a packed lunch and some rest for the souls/soles before climbing the dreaded elevation back up.
And along the way, I learned:
how a couple met and married
with another couple, the husband and I attended the very same high school and grew up in adjacent neighborhoods to one another...the wife is planning on joining my profession and desiring to learn Spanish, which I speak. Both know Russian, which I am studying. He is wanting a chess partner, as am I!
someone almost died in a snowstorm because a refuge camp was closed, unbeknowst to him. He averted death, intrepidly climbing up Greece's Mount Olympus, thinking he was summitting Mytikas peak, but instead climbed the Skala peak!! (big woops)
how another will soon be joined with his new bride in 2 weeks' time, marrying in SC
I'd want to do this hike all over again, the scenery is so pleasing to the eye.. lots of ooOOHS and aaaAAAAHS.
Takeaway points:
1. Sunscreen
2. layered clothing
3. Food and water
4. A camera
As Robert Palmer would croon, "Simply irresistible!!!!" -
Review from Kara B.
East Bay, CA
9/16/2010
Am I going to get shot for giving it 4 stars?
The falls are beautiful, especially if you go the right time of year, there is no doubt about that. Its a great place to picnic, lay on the beach, and its not overcrowded.
But I'm not gonna lie, the trail to the falls is a little too monotonous for me. There isn't much variation in terms of incline or vegetation & to keep me going I need a little diversity for my hikes.
I highly recommend people going once in their lives as it is a beautiful place. Since there isn't much incline, even the most novice hiker can do it, don't let the ~9 mile hike label scare you.
IMPORTANT: Lots of poison oak on the last portion of the trail, so if you are highly allergic, I don't recommend this hike, as the poison oak is pretty unavoidable. Wear long pants, or wash your legs off in the ocean immediately. -
Review from Flor D.
6/13/2008
Waterfalls in Norcal...?
You heard right...
Alamere Falls is accessible via the Palomarin Trailhead.
If you are to tired, or are thinking of turning around in the middle of the trail, DON'T. I mean, if you don't get to the falls, then why go...er...that is the whole point, right?
To access the beach, you have to walk through this tiny, "made-up" little pathway. Arms up, tummy tight, duck, and get ready for some serious brush...that was my motto. So glad I didn't wear shorts or else the weeds would have done a number on my legs. Definitely doable and so worth it. Contrary to the trail description, this is not for handicapped people or people with small space phobia.
Once you get through the trek, you arrive at this cliff. You see water for miles and miles, like a never ending horizon that is and will always be.
To get to the falls, you go down this steep little, gravel moving, hole of a path. It was a little scary, since the places that I was putting my feet on kept moving. No joke.
Once arrived. It was amazing. We were all in awe of Mother Nature's beauty. Tragically, I did not get all the way down to beach. I was not that skilled, and figured going up was going to be even harder. NO matter. I did not get jipped. I soaked my feet in the water and had lunch. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH" my feet and tummy said. It was a great day.
Only downer...I broke my camera heading down a path...I was bummed but managed to save some pics.Listed in: Work off my YELP!
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Review from Eddie H.
Updated - 3/10/2010 7 photos
Here is some info to consider when hiking this trail-
It's 8.6 miles R/T but 12.8 miles R/T if you take a longer route to avoid the poison oak. I'd advise leaving by 11:30 to avoid walking later in the afternoon when it starts to get dark. The trail is 60% open trail (meaning no cover from trees) and it was muddy at some points so bring shoes to change in when you get back to the car.
Maps
http://www.waterfallsw...
http://www.nps.gov/por...
MORE INFO
http://www.waterfallsw...
There is an additional map on the trail (about 500 feet from the parking lot). Stay on the Coast Trail (right trail)
http://www.weekendsher...
When you come to a little bridge, take the unmarked creek-side path to your left to the falls. Or, to avoid the poison oak route, walk another mile past the cutoff until you reach Wildcat Beach and then walk back on the beach. This adds 4 miles to your walk. (Find a map here.)Listed in: Hiking in the San Francisco…, Marin Waterfall Hikes
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/20/2007
I've seen just about every waterfall in Marin, and this by far is the most spectacular one of all. I… Read more »
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Review from Jay H.
3/12/2008
Innervoice: Lunchtime! I get to read up on my celebrity trash.
(clicks on sfgate's home page...gets distracted by the word 'waterfalls')
IV: Ooh..waterfalls? I love waterfalls! What?!?!? Waterfalls in the Bay Area? There's one in North Bay...Alamere Falls?
(clicks on park service website and checks out the distance)
IV: Sweet not too far. Who can I get to go with me? Not having a boyfriend totally sucks in situations like this! Can I just borrow a man to go with me?
(I've been spending a lot of time with my homegirls...I'm maxed out on estrogen)
IV: Hm...homie checklist. Has a chick- NO, has a baby- NO, is lazy- NO, can't wake up early because he's always hungover- NO. I know.. my forever bff Joe will go with me...he owes me hang out time!
(he agreed after a little convincing..he doesn't really hike)
The hike was gorgeous. Two big pristine lakes, the seaside just beyond the cliffs, tall and cool trees and a easy worn trail. I got scared by two garden snakes and a rabbit on the trail but that didn't matter. The falls were gorgeous and it was a great homie/homegirl bonding experience.
Take a lunch and eat on the beach or on top of the cliff. Also, get there before 11am to start the hike, by 1pm there are more people on the trail and you lose the full effect of a hike through nature. -
Review from Kara A.
San Francisco, CA
I usually hike at Tennessee Valley but a few times I year, I make the 45 minute trek out to a trail head in Southern Point Reyes to hike to Alamere Falls. I've done the hike three times since discovering it last fall and it is hands down one of the best hikes I've ever done.
The terrain can get rocky at a few points, so wear some stiff soled shoes; I wear trail runners, which are a bit too soft but they basically get the job done. Also, be sure to wear long pants - when you turn off the main trail to scamper down to Alamere Falls, you hit a narrow corridor full of everyone's favorite plant, poison oak. And one last very important piece of advice that I wish someone had given me before going, BRING A BATHING SUIT. Or, y'know, don't and go in your skivvies..because there is a rope swing into a lake halfway to the waterfall and if it's not freezing, it is going to be way too tempting to pass up!
So now you're at the falls and see a beach below with people walking their horses and you desperately want to get down to join them and get a view of the waterfall from the beach. Off to the right, there is a very dusty, rocky, precariously steep and slippery trail that leads you down to the beach. Get prepared to make use of your hands and feet going down, and go slow; it's very doable but not at high speeds. Going back up is much easier than going down, and if you like scrambling, you'll have tons of fun doing this!
I'd allow for 3 to 4 hrs here, maybe more if you fall in love with the beauty of the coastline in this area like I did because you won't want to leave! One final warning - your car will be FILTHY at the end of this. To get to the trailhead, you go down a dirt road that kicks up massive amounts of fine dust onto your back windshield; don't make the mistake i did in bringing a car I'd washed the day before!! -
Review from Sasha R.
4/25/2010 ROTD 5/4/2010
I managed to drag the hike-hating husband (HHH) out to Bolinas, to catch the waterfalls after all the rain we've been having. there was quite a bit of complaining after mile 6, but even HHH admitted it was worth it at the end of it all. a few tips:
1) go early. it gets hot and crowded. plus it brings you closer to the as-of-yet undisturbed wildlife.
2) bring extra shoes and socks. esp if you're going to be frolicking in the water.
3) wear long pants/sleeved-shirts. there's a lotta poison oak in them thar hills, esp on the 'unmaintained', read: bushwhack your way thru overgrown piles of the stuff with a machete (optional gear) alamere falls trail. also the beach near the falls is kinda cold and windy.
4) bring a towel/blanket, for picnicking, for drying off.
5) bring purell. you will need it after you use the toilet. -
Review from Kate M.
Seattle, WA
5/12/2006
I suggested a hike to my boyfriend a few weekends ago, and when he asked where I had in mind, I turned to my faithful old friend Yelp. I was aiming for the Point Reyes area, and stumbled upon Yan M.'s review (thanks!). It looked intriguing and like a good amount of hiking for one afternoon, so we jotted down the way there & were off.
Driving further and further into the backcountry, I was a little skeptical that this place even existed. Windy, windy roads, some of them not marked so much.... the theme from "Deliverance" plucking away in my head... the pavement ending and giving way to dirt road leading only one way.... eventually, we hit the END of the road, literally, and parked. The plethora of other cars and a trailhead sign lifted my spirits. We strapped on our backpacks filled with food for the beach (a must) and headed onward.
The trail is amazing because it covers such a wide range of terrain. Lush, enchanted-forest type woods that smell so good I wanted to bottle the smell and bring it back to the city... hidden lakes in the basins of the mountains, a wooden bridge with the words "silence is the loudest" scrawled across (awesome)... open trail along the cliffs of the coast... and finally, after hacking our way through an interesting little thicket with a sign warning "Alamere falls this way. Dangerous conditions. Caution", the waterfall - THREE waterfalls, actually, the last one culminating in a huge, glorious crashing wonder that runs into the ocean. Wow.
This is why I moved to California from Wisconsin. (Though I still love ya, Wisco!) -
Review from Kenneth F.
Cambridge, MA
7/21/2008
People have said it all. It's a nice and peaceful hike...and that's before you get to the beautiful waterfalls. You'll walk away from this place relaxed and with a sense of accomplishment :)
Some tips:
- Bring some picnic food along with you and have a great meal overlooking the ocean and side by side with the waterfall.
- Don't forget your cameras!
- Wear long pants because your legs and arms will get friendly with a few bushes.
- Wear layers...it was a bit chilly for me once we made it to the falls.
- Don't wash your car before going to the Palomarin Trailhead (where we started). There's a dusty road :)Listed in: Panic no more! Date spots are…, Let's get Physical!
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Review from yeeman n.
5/4/2009
The Coastal Trail (aka Palomarin Trail) is a very pretty trail. What better way to work on my Vitamin D deficiency and get my fitness on other than to go on a sweltering midday hike on a rocky and dusty trail with no shade?? Luckily, it is the coastal trail, so it's by the ocean and there's a breeze to keep my from dying. You get some pretty nice views of isolated beach and blue water.
The absolute worst thing about this trail is that I couldn't find any trail maps. I had to make a half hour detour to the ranger station to pick one up. Here's the trick guys ... if your goal is to go to Alamere Falls, and you hit a split in the trail, just go on the side where the ocean is. Or go to http://bahiker.com, they have a pretty good description of the trail.
Anyway, our goal was to hit Alamere falls. It's off the main trail, and you have to duck through some overhanging vegetation and avoid poison oak to get to the top of the falls. To get to the bottom of the falls is a climb down the rocks. This might be a little scary for people afraid of heights, but how adventuresome! I love it!
Anyway, what's a hike without some wildlife. Here's some hi-lights:
1) garden snakes
2) lizards doing pushups on rocks
3) hipsters in their skinny jeans and plaid shorts
4) girls dressed to go out to nightclubs
5) blue dragonflies
6) naked hippie taking a shower at base of Alamere Falls
Woo what a day! I'm fulfilled. -
Review from Joey J.
1/18/2010 1 photo
When the significant other goes out of town, I try to occupy my time with beer, burritos and Bataan Death March style hikes, things she usually turns her nose up at some. This weekend, she went to Maui and I drug some friends out to Alamere Falls.
If you're a fan of the Pacific, redwoods, and close up views of waterfalls that plummet onto beaches, this may be for you. There are two waterfalls in California that do the last thing, McWay Falls in Big Sur, which you can't climb down to see, and this one, which you can scale down a 30-ft hill then a 40-footer of grasping onto the side of the trail as it turns into steep drop. It's worth it. The view is one of the most amazing things out there, one that words and picture can't do justice. Everyone should do it once. Twice? If you like it I suppose.Listed in: My Favorite Things
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Review from Alita M.
San Francisco, CA
8/3/2010
Absolutely gorgeous and well worth the 9.2 mile hike out to the shore to see these falls. I just wish the park better maintained the trails...I know the state is broke, but you're allowing all the poison oak to take over and keep everyone from seeing this amazing spot!
Starts off in a wood full of Charlie Brown Noble Pines that smells amazing, then takes you into slopping and rocky paths through rolling green hills, past several lakes with pretty vine and tree coverage and onto the fork where you can slip on down to Alamere Falls. Great place to creek walk (childhood pastime of wearing your shoes or flip flops while walking up and down rivers) on the upper part of the falls or climb down to the beach and have lunch. -
Review from Darrel D.
Castro Valley, CA
1/4/2009 4 photos
I was relaxing at home one day, and realized...hmmm "it's been a short while since I put my nerdy skills to good use and reviewed my hiking checklist", and so, after ensuring my supplies were well stocked and first aid kit up to date, another hiking trip was lingering in my mind. Thus, a good friend and I made plans to head off on yet another hiking trek within the Bay Area, this time...to Alamere Falls.
Although the 2008 rainy season wasn't as vibrant as the seasons past, the falls were still gorgeous, as it's always cool to see a waterfall dropping and draining into the ocean.
After hiking a rugged terrrain about 4.3 miles (one way), we were surprised by the awesome 3 separate cascades about 30 ft. in total height. From the top of the cliff, we were later greeted by a nice side view of Alamere Falls itself, dropping 40 ft. down onto the beach. We had a great time hiking there, climbing down both the 30ft and the final 40 ft drop, climbing back up 70 ft, and hiking all the way back. Way cool!!!
If you decide to check this place out, please be sure to atleast pack two bottles of water for each person going. We ran into alot of people that weren't prepaired (they didn't pack food or water), thankfully...I carry my pantry on my back, so they lucked out.
I am rating this place as a four star as bathroom facilities aren't that readily availabled (there is one at the trail head), although, you can always use natures bathroom...those lovely shrubs and trees! :-p
I do not recommend this hike (climbing up and down the falls) to kids under the age of 10.Listed in: SF Bay Area Hikes
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Review from Gretchen T.
San Francisco, CA
10/2/2006
A great trail run almost any time of year. Several low-grade hills, but a totally doable 8-mile run. If you're a birder, you'll also be in heaven, lots of stopping points along Bass Lake and Crystal Lake to check them out. The waterfall itself is tiny, but fun to scramble down to and check out.
Here's how you get there (no easy feat): http://www.waterfallsw...
Then you can go into Bolinas afterward for some well-earned grub! -
Review from Tina T.
8/7/2011
What a beautiful place to hike! The toughest part? Scaling down to the beach. It was so ridiculous, but with the right group of people, it wasn't so bad. My cousin, who is afraid of hikes, was able to conquer his fears to make it down. The waterfall is definitely a sight to see - so beautiful.
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Review from haywood h.
9/8/2006
Wildflowers, a beach, and a beautiful waterfall that drops right into the ocean!
Go in spring after the rains, and remember to wear long pants, to avoid scratching yourself on the vegetation (the trail is a little overgrown) and you would have to scramble down the cliff to the beach.Listed in: Magical Hikes in the Bay Area
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Review from Juan G.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2011
Absolutely beautiful. We went over there yesterday. I took us 1 hour and a half to get to the falls from the parking lot.
All the trail is really simple, but getting down to the beach can be a little tricky. The ground is loose, and the rocks are wet. You should expect to get your pants wet, but it's worthy because the falls look better far more spectacular from the beach. -
Review from Diana C.
San Francisco, CA
8/15/2011
We hiked from Palomarin to the Wildcat Camp (taking the Ocean Loop trail), and then walked on the beach to the falls. Then we took the short route back (took the Alamere trail to the Coast Trail). It was about 11 miles, but felt like much more. I would suggest wearing thin pants or zip off pants/shorts, carrying a thin long-sleeve layer, and just taking the short route to Alamere. The Ocean Loop trail was long and not that interesting to look at. Moreover, it just increased our sun exposure. I ended up drinking all 100 oz. of water in my Camelbak by the time we got back to the car (although I probably didn't need to drink that much water--I drank it mostly in an attempt to stay cool).
