I have been on Mt. Tamalpais many times, doing numerous hikes over the years (as well as seeing friends in the Mountain Play- a unique experience!), so I wanted to try a different trail. I can't say enough about the beauty of this mountain. There are so many trails to choose from, multiple micro-climates, and the views are unrivaled: Pacific Ocean, SF Bay, Richardson Bay, Mt. Diablo, San Francisco and beyond. I parked at Rock Spring and did the Cataract Trail to Alpine Lake, which was just stunning. I hiked to the sounds of a running stream the entire way, with little pools here and there, verdant Boston fern lined paths (maybe papyrus as well? I wasn't sure) birds singing, wildflowers (poppies, lilies, wood roses, chinese houses to name a few) and a well marked trail. One of the things I love about Mt. Tam are the STEPS. No matter where you are, you will come upon numerous sections of STEPS: wooden, rock, tree roots, etc. I always think of the staff and volunteers who laid these steps, and those who maintain them. They give your heart a workout, for sure. I then went up to the east peak to enjoy the views-what a rush. The east side of the mountain is open -with already blonde grassy hills and oaks, and the west side is redwood forests. I will return to this mountain again and again; hiking her fills me with awe.