This rewarding hike makes a grand loop around the north side of Mt Tamalpais. You start off around the tree-lined shore of Alpine Lake then climb Cataract Canyon past seasonal cascades. After climbing to the West Peak and exploring an abandoned military base, you traverse under mixed forest and descend to a beautiful shoreline finish around Lagunitas and Bon Tempe Lakes. The route is largely shaded yet still offers periodic views. For a shorter hike skip the Northside traverse and descend Rocky Ridge Road.

fee accessyear-roundany vehicle