Hiking Point Reyes allows you to explore a stunning natural haven located just about 30 miles north of San Francisco, spanning over 71,000 acres along the rugged Northern California coast.
Since 2017, I’ve been exploring this park, hiking many of its trails multiple times while keeping others on my bucket list. My Point Reyes hiking guide is a culmination of the best hikes in the area, based on both my personal experiences and feedback from fellow hikers.
With stunning views, abundant wildlife, and rich history, these trails promise something special for everyone. Hopefully, this guide will help you navigate the park easily and make the most of your time at Point Reyes.
Your Guide to Point Reyes Hiking by Region
With more than 150 miles of trails weaving through diverse landscapes—from coastal cliffs and secluded beaches to forested ridges and rolling meadows—this area is a hiker’s paradise.
To help you navigate the best Point Reyes hikes, I’ve divided the trails in this guide by geographical area, ensuring you explore each unique corner of the park.
Point Reyes National Seashore covers a vast area, so driving between trailheads can take anywhere from 35 to 60 minutes.
To help plan your adventure more efficiently, I’ve included driving times from the Bear Valley Visitor Center as a reference point for each Point Reyes hike.
This way, you can have a better idea of how long it will take to travel from one trail to another, ensuring you make the most of your time exploring the park.
Additionally, Point Reyes is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Hiking in Point Reyes offers an unforgettable experience—vast, teeming with life, and truly extraordinary.
Trails and day hikes that are listed in this Point Reyes hiking guide will take you to amazing places and astounding experiences. Let’s dive in and find out the best day hikes and trails in Point Reyes National Seashore.
Please respect trail closures in Point Reyes to protect yourself, wildlife, and the environment. Many trails might be overgrown, so check for ticks and current conditions before you start your hike.
Make the Most of Your Time: My Top 5 Hikes in Point Reyes
If you’re short on time, these trails showcase the essence of Point Reyes’ breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and iconic landmarks:
- Point Reyes Lighthouse: Drive to the westernmost tip of the peninsula to explore this historic lighthouse, perched dramatically above the ocean. On a clear day, the sweeping views of the Pacific are unforgettable.
- Chimney Rock Trail: A short, scenic hike nearby offers stunning cliffside views and, in the right season, a chance to spot wildflowers and migrating whales.
- Drakes Beach: Round off your western excursion with a stop at this serene beach, perfect for relaxing and soaking in coastal beauty.
Heading north on Pierce Point Road, you’ll find:
- Tomales Point Trail: One of my absolute favorites, this 9.5-mile round-trip hike offers sweeping views of Tomales Bay and the Pacific. If you’re not up for the full trail, walk the first 2–3 miles to encounter Tule Elk grazing in open meadows and enjoy the stunning vistas.
- Abbotts Lagoon Trail: This gentle trail winds past the tranquil lagoon and leads to a desolate beach teeming with wildlife. The shoreline is a treasure trove of seashells, colorful pebbles, and meditative beauty.
Each of these hikes offers its own unique charm, making them perfect for creating lasting memories, even on a time crunch.
Top Point Reyes Hiking Trails for Every Skill Level
Bear Valley Area Hikes
The Bear Valley area is the central hub for visitors at Point Reyes, offering easy access to some of the park’s most popular Point Reyes hiking trails. The Bear Valley Visitor Center provides helpful information about the park, along with restrooms, a gift shop, and exhibits about the area’s natural and cultural history.
The spacious parking lot is a convenient starting point for Point Reyes hikes ranging from gentle walks to challenging routes, catering to all skill levels.
Note: Except for the Earthquake Trail and Kule Loklo Trail, all hikes in this area start at the Bear Valley Trailhead, located at the south end of the parking lot.
Earthquake Trail
Easy, 0.6 mi interpretive loop, 36 ft elev. gain, starts at northeast corner of the Bear Valley parking lot
Even if you’re pressed for time, make sure to visit the Earthquake Trail near the Bear Valley Visitor Center.
This easy, educational walk takes you through the San Andreas Fault Zone, where you’ll learn about the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, California’s worst natural disaster. During the quake, Point Reyes shifted an incredible 16.4 feet to the northwest! And don’t forget to check out the famous story of the cow—it’s a local favorite.
Kule Loklo Trail
Easy, 0.8 mi interpretive out & back, 144 ft elev. gain, starts north end of Bear Valley parking lot
“Kule Loklo” translates to “Bear Valley” in the Coast Miwok language. This short trail leads you to a replica of a Coast Miwok village, offering a glimpse into how the region’s native people lived and thrived on the land.
It’s a fascinating stop where you can explore the traditional structures and learn more about the area’s rich cultural history.
Woodpecker Nature Trail
Easy, 0.9 mi interpretive loop, 147 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
If you’re seeking a quiet, scenic walk, the Woodpecker Trail is a perfect pick. This short loop meanders through a peaceful forest where you can spot a variety of birds, including Acorn Woodpeckers.
These birds use the Douglas fir trees as granaries, drilling numerous small holes to store acorns for future use. As you walk, keep an eye out for the acorns tucked into these holes—a unique aspect of the trail’s wildlife.
You can combine this Point Reyes hiking trail with Earthquake Trail.
Bear Valley to Divide Meadow
Easy, 3.2 mi out & back, forested, 381 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
The hike from Bear Valley to Divide Meadow is a popular one, taking you through lush forest filled with ferns, towering Douglas firs, and plenty of banana slugs along Bear Creek.
There are two vault toilets in the area, making it a convenient spot to take a break or enjoy a picnic if you’re planning to hike further.
Bear Valley to The Coast Trail
Moderate, 9 mi out & back, forested, 728 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
The big draw of this hike used to be Arch Rock, a beautiful overlook that collapsed in 2015. The first 3 miles of Bear Valley are bike-friendly, so bring a lock if you’re riding (bikes aren’t allowed beyond that point).
After that, the scenery steps up as you make your way through a fern-covered canyon, eventually reaching the coastal section around mile 4. An unmaintained side trail leads to the cliff’s edge, where you can still catch a glimpse of what’s left of Arch Rock.
Bear Valley to Kelham Beach
Moderate, 10 mi out & back, forested & coastal, 732 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
To reach Kelham Beach, take the Bear Valley Trail to the Coast Trail, then head north for another mile. Keep in mind there’s no safe access— the staircase is broken halfway, and the path is unstable.
If you’re set on visiting Kelham Beach, consider starting with Sculptured Beach. It’s a 6.4-mile round trip, and you can extend your hike by adding 4.4 more miles to reach Kelham, bringing the total to 10.8 miles with a 750 ft elevation gain.
The Rift Zone Trail
Moderate, 9.1 mi out & back, forested, 830 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
The Rift Zone Trail from Bear Valley to Five Brooks is a peaceful hike through oak woodlands, coastal scrub, and quiet meadows.
Perfect for exploring a less-traveled area of the park, this Point Reyes hiking trail offers scenic views and diverse plant life.
Mt. Wittenberg Trail
Strenuous, 4.3 mi out & back, forested, 1295 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
The Mt. Wittenberg Trail offers a steep, rewarding hike to the highest point in Point Reyes, reaching 1,407 feet. While the summit doesn’t boast expansive views, it’s a great workout for those who enjoy the journey more than the destination. For a scenic loop, consider returning via the Meadow or Horse Trail.
If you’re after a less intense route, start at the Sky Trailhead along Limantour Road. This 4.5-mile trail climbs 750 feet and takes you through lush scenery. Follow the northern section of the Sky Trail to the Horse Trail, then connect with the Z Ranch Trail to reach the Mt. Wittenberg junction.
The Meadow-Horse Trails Loop
Strenuous, 6.5 mi loop, forested, 1270 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
This Point Reyes hiking trail is ideal in winter and spring when the meadows are lush. The hike ascends the Meadow Trail through forest and meadows to Inverness Ridge, where much of the canopy remains despite the Woodward Fire.
Skip the view-obstructed Mt. Wittenberg summit and continue on the Z Ranch and Horse Trails for a scenic descent with occasional views of Tomales Bay.
Sky – Bear Valley Loop
Strenuous, 11.6 mi loop, forested/coastal, 1837 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
This loop offers peaceful views and serene, fog-covered landscapes. Start at the Bear Valley Trailhead, hike up the Mt. Wittenberg Trail, then turn left onto the Sky Trail for a mostly flat, scenic walk through misty forests and coastal scrub.
Finish by following the Bear Valley Trail back for an easy return. You can pair this Point Reyes hiking trail with The Mt. Wittenberg Trail.
Woodward Valley Trail
Strenuous, 13.3 mi loop, forested/coastal, 1594 ft elev. gain, starts at Bear Valley trailhead
This trail combines all the best Point Reyes hikes into one unforgettable loop, taking you from lush forests to stunning tide pools.
Start at the Bear Valley Trailhead and choose either the Mt. Wittenberg or Meadow Trail to ascend to the Sky Trail. Turn left onto the Sky Trail, then head right on the Woodward Valley Trail toward the Coast Trail. Continue to the Arch Rock before returning via the Bear Valley Trail to Divide Meadow. If you want to experience the highlights of Bear Valley in one adventure, this loop is your perfect pick!
Point Reyes Lighthouse Area Hikes
The Point Reyes Lighthouse, built in 1870, located at the western-most tip of the Point Reyes Peninsula, is about a 40-45 minute drive from the Bear Valley Visitor Center. Perched on rugged cliffs, it offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
It took me several visits before I finally saw the lighthouse on a clear day, as fog can often obscure it for weeks. Despite this, the lighthouse remains a popular destination for those exploring the scenic trails in the area.
Note: The Point Reyes Lighthouse parking lot accommodates only 38 vehicles. If the lot is full, you may park parallel to the road east of the parking lot.
Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail
Moderate, 1.3 mi out & back, coastal, 308 ft elev. gain, starts at Point Reyes Lighthouse Parking Lot
A must-do at Point Reyes, the trail to the lighthouse is a short but challenging 0.65 miles one way.
You’ll descend 308 steps—about the height of a 25-story building—to reach the lighthouse itself. It’s a rewarding walk/climb that leads to stunning coastal views and fascinating lighthouse.
South Beach & Sea Lion Overlooks
Easy, 0.4 mi out & back, coastal, 59 ft elev. gain, starts at Point Reyes Lighthouse Parking Lot
A short walk from the lighthouse parking area, these overlooks offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline at South Beach Overlook and spot migrating whales from Sea Lion Overlook, also known as Whale Watch Point.
These accessible spots are perfect for photography and appreciating the natural beauty of Point Reyes.
Chimney Rock Trail
Moderate, 1.8 mi out & back, coastal, 160 ft elev. gain, starts at Chimney Rock trailhead parking lot (from Sir Francis Drake Blvd, turn left on Chimney Rock Lane (1 mile before Lighthouse parking), then 1 mile to the trailhead)
Chimney Rock Trail is one of my favorite hikes in Point Reyes, especially when shrouded in dramatic fog.
This short trail rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Drakes Bay and the ocean, vibrant wildflowers in spring, and fascinating mushroom colonies, along with the sounds of barking elephant seals.
Elephant Seal Overlook
Easy, 0.5 mi out & back, coastal, 134 ft elev. gain, starts at Chimney Rock trailhead parking lot
From December to February, the Elephant Seal Overlook on the Chimney Rock Trail is the perfect place to see these massive, noisy creatures in action. To get there, walk downhill from the Chimney Rock parking lot on the closed driveway.
After 400 feet, take a left onto a gravel path that offers stunning views of Drakes Bay and Drakes Beach. This scenic trail leads you right to the overlook, where you can enjoy watching the seals.
Point Reyes Hiking Along Sir Francis Drake Blvd
Just 35 minutes from the Bear Valley Visitor Center, Sir Francis Drake Blvd takes you through rolling hills and lush landscapes to the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore.
Enjoy this stunning coastal views in the early morning hours to see the vibrant wildlife along the way.
How to use this map: Click the icons for more info about each location. To save, click the star next to the map title, and it will be added to your Google Maps account. Later, open Google Maps on your phone or computer, click the menu, and select “Your Places” > “Maps.”
Estero Trail Hikes
From Estero Trailhead, you can access both Sunset Beach rand Drakes Head trails. Both start at the Estero Trailhead parking lot and share the same route for the first 2.5 to 3 miles. From Sir Francis Drake Blvd, turn left at Estero Trailhead, and drive 1 mile to the parking lot.
Estero Trail to Drakes Head
Moderate, 8.5 mi out & back, coastal grasslands, 964 ft elev. gain, starts at Estero trailhead parking lot
The Estero Trail to Drakes Head is a scenic, mostly flat hike through pastures with panoramic views of Drakes Estero and the Pacific.
It’s a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife, with the chance to see leopard sharks in the water below. The trail is exposed, so bring sun protection.
Estero Trail to Sunset Beach
Moderate, 7.9 mi out & back, coastal grasslands, 882 ft elev. gain, starts at Estero trailhead
The trail starts with views of Mt. Vision and Home Ranch, passes through a forest, and descends to Home Bay. Low tide reveals mudflats and oyster beds. After crossing the bridge, Sunset Beach Trail branches off at 1.4 miles, leading to a marshy wetland.
Cypress Tree Tunnel Trail
Easy, 0.7 mi out & back, forested, 19 ft elev. gain, located Point Reyes National Seashore’s North District Operations Center
This short trail leads to one of Point Reyes’ most photographed spots, and for good reason! It’s often crowded, so arriving early is key. If you’re lucky enough to visit when the fog rolls in and sunbeams break through, you’ll witness a truly magical scene.
The Bull Point Trail
Easy, 3.5 mi out & back, pastoral, 180 ft elev. gain, starts at Bull Point trailhead (located on the left side of Sir Francis Drake Blvd, heading toward North Beach)
The Bull Point Trail offers a leisurely stroll through flat pastures by Creamery Bay and Historic F Ranch. With wildflowers in spring and summer and great birdwatching—especially for birds of prey—it’s a lovely walk but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
North Beach to Point Reyes South Beach
Moderate, 4.5 mi out & back, beach, 141 ft elev. gain, starts at Point Reyes Beach North parking lot, dog friendly
This scenic coastal route offers stunning views and frequent wildlife sightings. Bring layers and water, as the trail is exposed and tide-dependent. During winter and spring, keep an eye out for gray whales migrating offshore.
South Beach Trail
Moderate, 7.1 mi out & back, beach, 236 ft elev. gain, starts at Point Reyes Beach South parking lot, dog friendly
South Beach Trail in Point Reyes offers a beautifully desolate vibe, perfect for those seeking solitude.
I didn’t meet a single soul during my visit, making it feel like a hidden gem. The soft sand adds a bit of a challenge, but it’s a rewarding workout.
Drakes Beach Trail
Easy, 1.7 mi out & back, beach, 68 ft elev. gain, starts at Drakes Beach parking lot
Drakes Beach is a great spot to visit in winter and spring when Northern Elephant Seals are breeding and pupping—guaranteed wildlife sightings!
With easy beach access, it’s perfect for families looking for a nature-filled outing.
Tomales Bay State Park Hikes
Tomales State Park is a hidden gem within the stunning Point Reyes National Seashore. With lush forests, coastal cliffs, and beautiful beaches, it’s just as captivating as its famous neighbor.
I used to overlook this area, and now I realize what a mistake that was! Whether you’re packing your swimsuit, hiking boots, or kayak, there’s something for everyone.
Just 20 minutes from Bear Valley Visitor Center, it’s time to explore the beauty of Tomales State Park!
Jepson-Johnstone Loop Trail
Moderate, 2.6 mi loop, forested & coastal, 464 ft elev. gain, starts at Jepson trailhead, (take Sir Francis Drake and turn right on Pierce Point Road until you reach the small parking lot on the right, directions to the parking lot)
Forest hikes that lead to breathtaking coastal views and hidden beaches are my favorite kind of trails! You never know what awaits around the corner, making every step an exciting adventure. If you’re like me, this loop is the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature.
The trail descends for the first half before climbing back up, providing a decent workout. Don’t miss the chance to take a short detour to Heart’s Desire Beach and check out Pebble Beach off the Johnstone Trail, where you’ll find a pit toilet with stunning views.
For those looking for an extended adventure, continue from Heart’s Desire Beach to Indian Beach via the Indian Nature Trail. This adds another 1.7 miles with a 295-foot elevation gain, making for a fantastic day out!
Indian Beach Loop Trail
Easy, 1.7 mi loop, forested & coastal, 295 ft elev. gain, starts at Heart’s Desire parking lot (parking fee might be required)
This trail winds through an oak forest to a wetland inlet, leading to Indian Beach. Explore the beach or return via a shaded path.
Don’t miss the fern-lined route back to Heart’s Desire Beach, featuring panels on the area’s natural and cultural history, including Miwok structure replicas.
Shell Beach Trail
Easy, 0.8 mi out & back, forested & coastal, starts at the end of Camino Del Mar parking lot, (take Sir Francis Drake and turn right on Camino Del Mar road until you reach the small parking lot)
Explore the shoreline, watch for birds, or simply relax by the water. The beach’s two sections are connected by a bridge, offering a peaceful retreat in nature.
For a longer adventure, take the Johnstone Trail to Jepson Trail, a 7-mile hike with a 1,325 ft elevation gain. May Shell Beach bring you joy too!
Pierce Point Road Hikes
Pierce Point Road takes you to the northern end of Point Reyes, about 20-40 minutes from Bear Valley Visitor Center via Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
Turn right onto Pierce Point Road for scenic views, access to the Tule Elk Preserve, and trails like Tomales Point. A perfect drive for those looking to explore quieter, remote areas of the park.
Abbotts Lagoon Trail
Easy, 3.3 mi out & back, marsh, lagoon, beach, dunes, 187 ft elev. gain, starts at Abbotts Lagoon parking lot of Pierce Point Rd
Abbotts Lagoon is a serene escape from the more crowded spots at Point Reyes. The flat trail leads you through meadows filled with wildflowers in spring, ending at a peaceful beach that’s perfect for solitude.
Along the way, you’ll cross a bridge with views of the lagoon and might spot birds, wildlife, or grazing cows. The quiet, desolate beach is a personal favorite of mine—walking along the lagoon, collecting shells and pebbles, is always a meditative experience.
Kehoe Beach Trail
Easy, 1.2 mi out & back, beach, 95 ft elev. gain, starts at Kehoe beach parking lot of Pierce Point Rd, dog friendly
Kehoe Beach is a dog-friendly trail in Point Reyes, with an easy walk along Kehoe Marsh to the ocean. The final stretch climbs over sand dunes, leading to tide pools on the right. Be mindful of strong waves, and for a longer adventure, continue 2.8 miles south to Abbotts Lagoon.
McClures Beach Trail
Easy, 0.8 mi out & back, beach, 223 ft elev. gain, starts at McClures beach parking lot located at the end of the Pierce Point Road
McClures Beach is a picturesque retreat accessible via a steep trail adorned with seasonal wildflowers. Tucked in a dramatic cove, the beach features stunning cliffs and powerful Pacific waves.
While swimming is unsafe due to strong surf, the breathtaking views and rugged landscape make it a must-visit along the Point Reyes coastline. Just be mindful of the tides!
Tomales Point Trail
Strenuous, 9.5 mi out & back, coastal, 1200 ft elev. gain, starts at The Tomales Point trailhead, located at the north end of Pierce Point Road
The Tomales Point Trail is a highlight of my visits to Point Reyes National Park. This scenic hike features stunning views of Tomales Bay and the Pacific Ocean, with opportunities to spot Tule Elk.
I especially enjoy the vibrant wildflowers in spring and the moody atmosphere created by rolling fog.
Limantour Road Area Hikes
Limantour Road offers a scenic drive into Point Reyes National Park, showcasing coastal landscapes and wetlands. Just a 20-minute drive from the Bear Valley Visitor Center, it provides easy access to hiking and wildlife watching in the park’s beautiful surroundings.
Limantour Beach Trail
Moderate, 5.4 mi out & back, coastal, 68 ft elev. gain, starts at Limantour beach parking lot, located at the end of Limantour road, dog friendly
Limantour Beach is a picturesque spot in Point Reyes ideal for sunrise or sunset strolls. Sheltered from rough ocean waves, this south-facing beach offers a short walk from the parking lot, where you can spot birds and even coyotes in the marsh.
Stretching over four miles, Limantour Beach is family-friendly, with gentle waves perfect for play. The nearby Limantour Spit is rich in wildlife, attracting Pacific Gray Whales in spring and various shorebirds in fall and winter. Arrive one to two hours before sunset for stunning views.
Sculptured Beach Trail
Moderate, 6.4 mi out & back, coastal, 541 ft elev. gain, starts at Limantour beach parking lot, located at the end of Limantour road
Hike through coastal scrub and grassland to Sculptured Beach in Point Reyes, enjoying stunning ocean views along the way. At low tide, take the beach route, as the coastal trail sustained significant damage from storms in early 2023 and is no longer maintained by the park.
Laguna Trail and Coast Trail Loop
Moderate, 5.9 mi loop, forested & coastal, 518 ft elev. gain, starts at Laguna Trailhead Parking lot, located of Limantour road
Starting in a grassy meadow, the loop features rolling terrain with access points to the beach for sandy strolls and stunning ocean views.
Hike clockwise for the best experience, beginning with the steep Laguna Trail before transitioning to the flatter, shaded Coast Trail.
Muddy Hollow Trail
Easy, 4 mi out & back, marsh lands, 203 ft elev. gain, starts at Limantour beach parking lot, at the end of Limantour road (head south past the vault toilets and keep to the right. Just before the picnic area, the trail veers off to the right through a small group of pines)
The Muddy Hollow Trail offers two starting points: the Muddy Hollow Trailhead or Limantour Beach. I prefer starting at Limantour Beach for a relaxing post-hike break.
This easy hike is great for birdwatching, spotting wildflowers, and possibly seeing tule elk. This Point Reyes hiking trail winds through peaceful habitats and ends at Estero de Limantour. Bring binoculars—you might catch a glimpse of harbor seals or birds along the shore.
Estero–Glenbrook–Muddy Hollow Road Loop
Moderate, 7.4 mi loop, coastal scrub, 813 ft elev. gain, starts at Muddy Hollow Road trailhead located at Muddy Hollow Road of Limantour road (make sure to follow the trail labeled “road”)
Hike 2.3 miles to the Glenbrook trail, turn left, and after 0.7 miles, join the Estero Trail. Follow it for 4 miles, then take a left on the Muddy Hollow Trail for the last 0.3 miles back to the parking lot.
If you’re like me and prefer scenic loops over out-and-backs, this trail is perfect, offering beautiful views of Estero de Limantour and Drakes Bay. I hiked it counter-clockwise for ocean views along the Glenbrook and Estero Trails, but either direction works just as well.
The loop winds through coastal scrub, woodlands, and grasslands, with chances to spot tule elk and spring wildflowers. Keep in mind there are creek crossings, which can get your feet wet in winter and spring, and some areas may be muddy or overgrown.
Palomarin Area Hikes
The Palomarin Trailhead, located at the northwestern end of Mesa Road near Bolinas, is about a 35-minute drive from the Bear Valley Visitor Center. It’s the southern starting point of the popular Coast Trail, which leads to Wildcat Campground, and the gateway to the famous Alamere Falls trail.
Palomarin Lakes to Wildcat Beach via Coast Trail
Strenuous, 12 mi out & back, coastal & forested, 1768 ft elev. gain, starts at Palomarin trailhead
The Coast Trail meanders through the scenic Palomarin area, guiding you past beautiful spots like Bass Lake and Pelican Lake before arriving at the stunning Wildcat Beach.
Start your journey on the Coast Trail and head to Bass Lake, a tranquil spot ideal for a quick break. From there, continue to Pelican Lake, where you’ll reach a junction with the Ocean Lake Loop Trail.
Here, you have two options: stick to the Coast Trail, which gently winds inland through vibrant coastal scrub and forest, or take the Ocean Lake Loop Trail. If you choose the loop, you’ll descend toward Ocean Lake before climbing steeply up coastal bluffs, treating you to breathtaking views of the shoreline.
Once you reconnect with the Coast Trail, it’s just a short 0.2 miles to Wildcat Campground, your gateway to the beautiful Wildcat Beach.
Alamere Falls Hike via The Coast Trail
Strenuous, 13.2 mi out & back, coastal, 1817 ft elev. gain, starts at Palomarin trailhead
Alamere Falls is one of the most popular Point Reyes hiking trails, and while I haven’t tackled it yet, it’s definitely on my bucket list! There are three ways to reach the falls, but the shortest route starts at the Palomarin Trailhead. This stunning tidefall, where water cascades over a 40-foot cliff into the Pacific, is a must-see in Marin County.
The hike offers incredible ocean views and passes several lakes along the way. Be sure to start early if you’re hiking on the weekend—the parking lot fills up fast.
Follow the directions above to reach Wildcat Campground and Wildcat Beach, then take the beach route to continue your journey from Wildcat Campground to the base of the falls.
Important note: Avoid the unmaintained “Alamere Falls Trail” shortcut, which is unsafe and discouraged by the National Park Service. Stick to the designated trails to enjoy the beauty of Alamere Falls safely!
Point Reyes Hikes Along Highway 1
Tomales Bay Trailhead
Easy, 2.5 mi loop, marshlands, 259 ft elev. gain, starts at Tomales Bay trailhead parking lot, locates off Highway 1, north of the Point Reyes–Petaluma Road junction (10 minutes rom the Bear Valley Visitor Center)
Enjoy a scenic stroll along Tomales Bay, meandering through lush pastures dotted with grazing Holsteins and striking blueschist rocks called “knockers.”
The trail showcases diverse terrains, including meadows and marshes bustling with birdlife like red-winged blackbirds, egrets, and herons.
It’s the perfect walk to enjoy after a delightful meal at nearby Heidrun Meadery or to savor fresh oysters from The Marshall Store and Hog Island.
Essential Point Reyes Hiking Tips Before You Hit The Trails
And that’s a wrap! Hopefully, you found Point Reyes hiking guide helpful and are ready to make the most of your time in Point Reyes. Before you head out, here are a few last-minute reminders to keep in mind:
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Remember to be considerate of fellow hikers and wildlife. Stick to the trails to help protect the environment, and don’t feed the animals—even if they look like they want a snack!
Leave No Trace
Help keep Point Reyes as beautiful as you found it and follow Leave No Trace guidelines. Pack out everything you bring in—trash, food scraps, and all. Let’s leave the trails spotless for future adventurers.
Check Trail Conditions
Make sure to check the park’s website for any trail closures or conditions that could impact your hike. Better to know ahead of time!
So, grab your gear, lace up those boots, and go explore all the beauty Point Reyes has to offer. Happy hiking, and see you on the trails!