Ridgecrest Parking to Alpine Dam is a 4.4 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Stinson Beach, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This hike begins at the pullout on Ridgecrest Blvd and leads to Laurel Dell and Alpine Lake along the Cataract Trail. Laurel Dell is a great resting point to stop and have lunch. The way down to the lake can be steep in parts, so take extra caution when walking down the steep steps.
October 10, 2020
July 15, 2019This trail is not for the faint of heart. Getting down is fine but coming back up makes you wonder why you ever picked this trail to begin with. I had my dog with me, but wouldn’t ever take her again. If your pet pulls at all, leave them behind... it’s too steep and there’s too many stairs... she almost pulled me down as I was trying to keep my balance many times. Lots of water spots for those wanting a quick dip. Note that you cannot swim in Alpine Lake, though! Take your poles if you have them. Super helpful on the way back.
June 8, 2019Great trail! It’s a stair master in nature!! Straight down and then back up again. Not recommended for anybody with knee issues. Wish I would have brought bikini and Picknick to stop halfway and swim. Also was missing my hiking poles.
February 18, 2018
First to ReviewExcellent trail!
January 18, 2021November 27, 2020October 11, 2020August 9, 2020August 8, 2020July 25, 2020June 27, 2020June 13, 2020June 12, 2020March 15, 2020March 1, 2020August 10, 2019August 3, 2019July 13, 2019May 27, 2019April 6, 2019July 23, 2018March 22, 2016
