Green Grotto

There may be a bigger waterfall in Marin but there probably isn't a more intimate one. Twenty-foot Cascade Falls is tucked into a canyon behind the residential community of Fairfax. There's hardly any parking, few signs, and the short trail leading to the falls can be deceiving. All the more reason to seek out this elusive oasis. From the trailhead, walk alongside San Anselmo Creek. As you dip and wind through quiet Cascade Canyon you may be wondering—is there really a waterfall here? But within 20 minutes the creek picks up its pace as the faint sound of churning water echoes in the background. Soon enough you'll be at the base of the falls, where giant rock stair-steps lead to a wooden viewing platform. A few extra steps will get you to the edge. This little green grotto only comes to life during the rainy season, so get there soon. It's a good rush.

From westbound Sir Francis Drake Blvd. in Fairfax, turn left on Pacheco Ave., then immediately right on Broadway. Turn left at the next block onto Bolinas Rd. (aka Bolinas-Fairfax Rd.) Go a quarter of a mile; bear right onto Cascade Dr. Continue 1.5 miles until the end, where there's limited parking. Follow the High Water Trail to the right of San Anselmo Creek. At .5 mile, cross a wooden bridge and turn right at the T intersection. In a quarter of a mile you'll reach the falls. Dog-friendly!