Tomales Point Trail, Marin County Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County
The hike to Tomales Point is one of the easier trails to follow. From the parking lot at the Tomales Point Trailhead, walk to the left of the historic Pierce Point Ranch, which offers a glimpse into the early dairy ranching days on the Peninsula.
Continue straight, in a general northern direction, on the same trail for 7.6 km until the trail dead ends at Tomales Point. This can be more challenging in the fog, which is notorious around Tomales Point.
There is lots of scenery to take in during this hike, Duck Beach, Sand Point, Tom’s Point and views of Bird Rock. This trail consists entirely within a tule elk preserve and there is a good chance that you will spot a few elk grazing!
As you get closer to Tomales Point there will be multiple paths around bushes and a few places where people go off trail to get a better view, keep right and stay on trail for the duration of your hike!
After enjoying the views at Tomales Point, turn around and walk back the 7.6 km to Pierce Point Ranch.
Insider Hints for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County
- We like to make a trip down to McClure’s Beach, a short 1312ft jaunt from Pierce Point Ranch. You can drive down and park there if you’re tired. McClure’s Beach offers wonderful views, and if you brought a picnic is a great place to relax after a wonderful hike.
- Layered clothing & rain jacket for the foggy mornings.
- There is no food options within close to 32.2 km so pack in snacks and water for the hike before heading to the trailhead.
- Cafe Reyes is a great place to stock up on snack, grab a lunch to go or pick up water ( 11101 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956).
Getting to the Tomales Point Trail, Marin County Trailhead
Head for the Tomales Point Trailhead, which is at Pierce Point Ranch. From Point Reyes Station, take Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and go right at the split onto Pierce Point Road. Park at the parking lot in front of Pierce Point Ranch.Route Information for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County
When to do:
Year round
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Toilets:
At nearby McClures Beach Trailhead
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Good
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Tomales Point Trail, Marin County Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County
This hike is old but gold! Fantastic!
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Breathtaking views all around. The fogs were a bit annoying though. Hoping to see everything clearly next time.
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This hike is ethereal. With all the fog, everything looks otherworldly. You'll find the moose appearing out of the blue. Such a great scene!
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We had a wonderful experience here. The trail was easy to follow and there were lots of stunning views to discover.
- Trip Length
- 05:00
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It is impossible to describe how wonderful Tomales Point Trail was!
- Trip Length
- 05:00
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It is a perfect hiking destination on a lovely day.
- Trip Length
- 05:15
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Great hike and easy. Saw lots, and lots of elk. Amazing!
- Trip Length
- 05:00
- Technical Difficulty
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Beautiful views overlooking the ocean. What a gorgeous trail
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Highly recommend. Gorgeous views. Great hike and easy.
- Trip Length
- 05:00
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This is my best pick! There are amazing meadows and breathtaking shorelines.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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