9/11/2017
Alamere Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Point Reyes National Seashore. It consists of upper and lower falls flowing into the ocean. It cascades over steep bluffs at Alamere Creek Beach. Upper falls separately fall along the stream on the ledge of the bluffs. Lower falls cascade down the bluffs directly into the beach.
Alamere Falls hike starts with Coastal Trail from Palomarin Trailhead in Bolinas. The hike to the waterfall is about 8.5 miles RT, and there is a slight elevation loss/gain, but not significant. Trail is in good condition overall, except some uneven eroded sections here and there. After passing two lakes (Bass Lake and Pelican Lake), you come to a cairn (arrow sign of rocks) pointing to the route to the waterfall. The path looks like a narrow tunnel covered with vegetation. Be wary of poison oak as you go through the narrow path. If you opt out taking the path to the waterfall at the cairn, there's a route recommended by NPS....continue Coastal Trail north to Wildcat Camp and trek south along the beach at low tide to reach the waterfall.
Scrambling down/up the shale bluffs from the path to upper falls and further down to lower falls at the beach can be a bit challenging as it is steep. Make sure of secure handhold and footing as you go.
Bring enough water to stay hydrated as half of the trail is exposed and provides no shade. Parking is free and restroom is available. Plan the journey according to tides for viewing the waterfall from the beach.
Alamere Falls hike starts with Coastal Trail from Palomarin Trailhead in Bolinas. The hike to the waterfall is about 8.5 miles RT, and there is a slight elevation loss/gain, but not significant. Trail is in good condition overall, except some uneven eroded sections here and there. After passing two lakes (Bass Lake and Pelican Lake), you come to a cairn (arrow sign of rocks) pointing to the route to the waterfall. The path looks like a narrow tunnel covered with vegetation. Be wary of poison oak as you go through the narrow path. If you opt out taking the path to the waterfall at the cairn, there's a route recommended by NPS....continue Coastal Trail north to Wildcat Camp and trek south along the beach at low tide to reach the waterfall.
Scrambling down/up the shale bluffs from the path to upper falls and further down to lower falls at the beach can be a bit challenging as it is steep. Make sure of secure handhold and footing as you go.
Bring enough water to stay hydrated as half of the trail is exposed and provides no shade. Parking is free and restroom is available. Plan the journey according to tides for viewing the waterfall from the beach.
