https://www.mercurynews.com/2022/01/31/4-spectacular-bay-area-waterfall-hikes-for-winter-walks/

There are few things more exciting to me than a waterfall hike in the rainy season, when creeks are spilling over in their full, splashy glory. Time it right, and the reward is so deeply fulfilling: You can see the power and serenity of water rushing over rocks, spot the tallest falls and deepest pools, and smell the earth-damp scent of the forest, glistening with newly-fallen raindrops.

These four Bay Area hikes visit seasonal cascades and waterfalls in Oakland, Walnut Creek, Morgan Hill and Los Altos Hills with ideas for warm-your-heart bites nearby. Since waterfall hikes tend to be in chilly canyons that can get wet and muddy, dress in layers and footwear to help protect against cold and muck. Although some waterfalls flow year round, most in our area need a good kick in the pants to get going, so a good strategy is to wait until late in the rainy season or after a heavy storm system passes through to see their ephemeral magic.