Waterfalls Await on Mt. Tam’s Cataract Trail

During late winter and early spring, and especially after a rainstorm, this spectacular family hike on Mt. Tamalpais will reward you with a spectacular waterfall. The easiest approach for families hiking is from the Rock Spring trailhead. There is an alternate approach from Fairfax-Bolinas Road, near Alpine Dam, but it’s largely uphill and probably not the best if you have kids in tow. The hike from Rock Spring meanders along a creek through the forest. It’s best to have either a backpack carrier or kids who can hike themselves (say 4+) here; jogging strollers are out due to the terrain. The trail ends at Laurel Dell picnic area, where there are, not surprisingly, picnic tables and restroom facilities. Pick up the trail again and head downhill and you’ll be treated to the sight of majestic Cataract Falls.
An alternate route is to go with another group and use two cars. Drop one off in a roadside spot down on Fairfax-Bolinas Road and then everyone continues on to Rock Spring, where a one-way hike ends up on Fairfax-Bolinas Road again. It can be a bit cold and wet up there, so pack raingear just in case. Bay Area Hiker (www.bahiker.com) has photos and directions to both areas. An interactive map of Mt. Tam is available at www.mttam.net.