Alamere Falls Day Hike in Point Reyes National Seashore in Northern California

Alamere Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Point Reyes National Seashore in Northern California. The trail to the falls is 8.4 miles roundtrip, and takes hikers through scenic coastal scrub and along the shoreline before descending to the falls. This is a great way to spend a full day if you plan it out right.  

Here are some quick tips for hiking to Alamere Falls:

• Parking: The trailhead for Alamere Falls is located at the Palomarin Trailhead, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco. There is a parking lot at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so it's a good idea to arrive early.
• Trail: The hike to Alamere Falls is a moderate level hike, with some steep sections and uneven terrain. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, but hikers should be prepared for some challenging sections. Along the way, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
• Time: The hike to Alamere Falls typically takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the falls. It's a good idea to bring plenty of water and snacks, and to wear sturdy hiking shoes.
• Expectations: The waterfall at the end of the hike is absolutely stunning, but it's important to remember that swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is not allowed. Additionally, hikers should be respectful of the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Overall, the hike to Alamere Falls is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Northern California. With a little preparation and the right mindset, it's a great adventure for hikers of all skill levels.

Questions and Answers

What should you pack to be prepared for the trip? Great question! Here's a list of some essential items to pack for the hike to Alamere Falls:

• Water: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the hike. A general rule of thumb is to bring at least 1 liter of water per person for every 2-3 hours of hiking.
• Snacks: Pack some energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or fruit to keep you fueled during the hike.
• Sun protection: The trail to Alamere Falls is exposed in some areas, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Layers: The weather at Point Reyes can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack layers that you can easily put on or take off as needed. Bring a lightweight jacket or windbreaker, and consider wearing moisture-wicking clothing that will keep you dry and comfortable.
• Sturdy shoes: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots with good traction to navigate the rocky terrain and uneven trails.
• Map and compass: Although the trail is well-marked, it's always a good idea to bring a map and compass or GPS device, just in case.
• First aid kit: Pack a small first aid kit with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• By packing these essential items, you'll be well-prepared for a safe and enjoyable hike to Alamere Falls.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

• Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the trail to Alamere Falls or in most areas of the Point Reyes National Seashore, with the exception of certain designated areas. This is to protect the sensitive natural habitats and wildlife of the park, as well as the safety and enjoyment of other hikers.
• If you're planning to hike to Alamere Falls, please leave your furry friends at home and enjoy the hike with human companions! If you do have a service animal, be sure to check with the park beforehand to see what accommodations can be made.

What hours is the park open?

• Point Reyes National Seashore is generally open year-round, but some facilities and areas may have different hours of operation. The park's entrance station is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the Bear Valley Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• The trails at Point Reyes are generally open from sunrise to sunset, but there may be some exceptions due to seasonal changes, maintenance work, or weather conditions. It's always a good idea to check the park's website or call ahead to confirm current hours and trail conditions before you go.
• Keep in mind that there is no camping allowed at the trailhead for Alamere Falls or along the trail, so plan your hike accordingly and make sure to exit the park before it closes.

Are there good places to eat after you complete the hike? Yes, there are a few good places to eat in the area after completing the hike to Alamere Falls. Here are a few options:

• Point Reyes Station: This charming town is located just a short drive from the trailhead and offers several great dining options. Some popular restaurants include Station House Cafe, Osteria Stellina, and Cowgirl Creamery.
• Olema: This small town is located just south of the park and offers a few dining options, including the Farm House Restaurant at the Lodge at Point Reyes and Sir and Star at the Olema.
• Inverness: This small town is located just north of the park and offers a few dining options, including Saltwater Oyster Depot and Cafe Reyes.
• Keep in mind that these restaurants can be popular and may have long wait times, especially on weekends and holidays. It's a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation if possible, or consider bringing your own picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's picnic areas.

Can you swim at the beach at Alamere Falls?

• While the beach at Alamere Falls is certainly beautiful, swimming is not recommended due to strong rip currents and dangerous surf conditions. The beach can be particularly treacherous, and several people have been swept out to sea or injured while attempting to swim or climb on the rocks.
• In addition, the falls themselves are not suitable for swimming, as the water can be shallow and rocky with unpredictable currents. The rocks around the falls can also be slippery and dangerous to navigate, especially if you're not an experienced hiker.
• If you do decide to visit the beach at Alamere Falls, be sure to observe all posted signs and warnings, stay away from the water's edge, and never turn your back on the ocean. Instead, enjoy the beach from a safe distance and take in the stunning views of the falls and the coastline.

Is this a good hike for children?

• The hike to Alamere Falls can be challenging, so it may not be the best choice for very young children or inexperienced hikers. However, if your children are comfortable with hiking on uneven terrain and can handle the distance, the hike can be a great adventure and a chance to experience the beautiful natural scenery of Point Reyes.
• The trail to Alamere Falls is approximately 8 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 3-5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and level of experience. The trail includes several steep sections, rocky terrain, and some areas with loose sand, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
• It's important to note that there are no facilities, including restrooms or drinking fountains, along the trail or at the beach, so plan accordingly. Be sure to pack out any trash and leave no trace to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• If you're hiking with children, it's a good idea to set realistic expectations and take breaks as needed. The hike can be challenging, but with some preparation and patience, it can be a fun and rewarding adventure for the whole family.

Is the trail crowded?

• The trail to Alamere Falls can be popular, especially on weekends and holidays. During peak season, you can expect to see a moderate to high number of hikers on the trail and at the beach, but the level of crowding can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
• That being said, the hike is long and challenging, so many hikers may not make it all the way to the falls. Additionally, the beach is quite large, so there is usually plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
• If you're looking to avoid crowds, it's a good idea to visit on a weekday or early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. Additionally, consider visiting during the off-season (typically late fall to early spring) when the park is less crowded overall.
• Regardless of when you visit, be sure to practice good trail etiquette and respect other hikers' space and privacy. Stay on designated trails, pack out your trash, and be mindful of noise levels to help preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensure a positive experience for all visitors.

Where can I find a good map for Alamere falls?

• You can find a map of the Point Reyes National Seashore, including the trail to Alamere Falls, on the National Park Service website or at the park's visitor center. The park's website offers both a downloadable PDF map as well as an interactive map that you can access from your phone or other device.
• In addition to the park's official map, there are several other resources that you may find helpful in planning your hike to Alamere Falls. One popular option is the AllTrails app, which offers detailed maps, trail descriptions, and reviews from other hikers. You can download the app on your phone and access the map even if you don't have internet access while on the trail.
• If you prefer a physical map, there are several options available for purchase online or in stores. The Point Reyes National Seashore Association offers a variety of maps and guidebooks for sale on their website, including detailed trail maps and natural history guides. Additionally, many outdoor stores and bookstores in the San Francisco Bay Area carry maps and guidebooks for the area.