INTERMEDIATE PLUS - Cataract Trail Loop, Marin Water District

NOTE EARLIER START TIME - Spectacular waterfall hike. From the trailhead at the end of Alpine Lake, we'll see one cataract after another over the first 2-3 miles of the hike. If the flower spirits cooperate, we may also see Calypso Orchids (aka Ladyslippers), Fetid Alder Tongue, and Trillium in profusion. More elevation than typical intermediate hikes, but we'll take it our time, with lots of stops to catch breath, take photos, hydrate, and revel in the incredible beauty of this trail. Planned route is Cataract Trail to Benstein, social detour to Barth's Retreat for lunch before looping back to Cataract via the Laurel Dell Fire Road. Port-a-potties at trailhead. Mostly through forest, with some exposed areas.  About 8 miles, 1800 ft. elevation gain - most of it over the first 3 miles, several lengthy staircases, rough trail in spots. Very limited parking at trailhead so we'll try to get as many people per car as possible. Bring lunch, water, poles recommended. Time to trailhead about 90 minutes. Leave Berger 8:30 AM. Hike leader Florentia Scott, hikingscott@yahoo.com, (707) 591-1929.