Cataract Falls

"One of the best post rain hikes in the Bay Area! We did our hike starting at Rock Spring Trailhead, which makes this an Out & Back, 7.5ish mile hike. Took us a total of 4 hours. we went on saturday 2/3/24, & I don’t know if we lucked out, but reviews kept talking about how busy the trail & “good luck with parking” but when we went it was pretty empty?!?? Mind you, we even got there late (12:30pm), so I was expecting to struggle to find parking, but I found one almost right away. (Not sure if going late is a perk at this trail?) ALSO, at the Rock Spring trailhead parking lot, I didn’t see anything indicating we needed to pay?!? (No booths, or drop boxes, or anything) so looks like parking may have been free from there- unclear lololll Anywho, hike was gorgeous! Never ending moss & waterfalls!! I would say the first half of the hike (like before you hit all the steps) is more like ~Easy to Moderate~, & it’s the 2nd half (especially on the way back) that’s ~Moderate to Hard~ cus of how steep it is! I’m currently working on getting back into shape (so currently not in awesome shape) & I was heavy breathing the whole way back Bathroom access was your typically porta potty/outhouse situations but we don’t mind those, we were happy there was even any :) Btw, just a note! the end point of this trail (like before you have to turn back) is the Cataract Falls trailhead. So technically you could do this trail backwards. I would only recommend it if you wanna get straight to the good stuff right away! Anywho, 10/10 def recommend! Follow me on insta if you wanna get more deets :) @heyitssmalls"

"Its a nice hike down inside the gorge. Very slippery. Not sure how long the gorge is, but its worth the time"

"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."

"At the start of this trail there is a very nice mirror lake and this is the best part of the hike. There are two ports potties near the start. Trail it self is moderate to strenuous with lots of stair steps many made of stone and quite a few nicely made steps. There is almost no water in Jul. I would think there will be more water in the months up to May."

"Experience the beauty of Cataract Trail as it leads you along the breathtaking Alpine Dam. Prepare for an adventurous hike ahead; the trail is steep, rugged, and truly rewarding. Always stay on designated paths to preserve the natural surroundings. Ensuring your comfort and safety, wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots to protect your ankles, and consider bringing hiking sticks for support on the ascent and descent. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and a delightful picnic to enjoy by the enchanting waterfall. While you’ll be tempted, swimming and wading at Cataract Falls are not permitted to maintain the area’s pristine condition. Instead, capture the magic with your camera and cherish the memories forever. Embrace the journey, take in the breathtaking sights, and above all, have an unforgettable time at Cataract Falls Trail!"