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    Point Reyes National Seashore

    Hikes in Point Reyes National Seashore

    Region in California, United States

    The Point Reyes National Seashore is a natural sanctuary on the California coast that is primed and ready for exploration. Discover the grandeur and diversity of the fragile coastal environment through the extensive network of hiking routes that cover the area. Encompassing over 71,000 acres of the Point Reyes Peninsula, the National Preserve is almost completely separated from the continental United States by a rift zone on the San Andreas Fault. The striking topographic disparity of crashing surf and verdant headlands beckons curious explorers from around the globe.

    A landscape characterized by sandy beaches, rugged headlands, lush temperate forests, and coastal prairies; the adventure opportunities here are endless! The summer months see wonderful hiking, sea kayaking, and epic wildlife viewing possibilities. Hike amongst tule elk at Tomales Point, admire elephant seals on Chimney Beach, explore cattle ranches at Drakes Estero, and watch the gray whale migration from the Point Reyes Lighthouse. Unfortunately, the Point Reyes National Park is not a dog-friendly preserve due to the abundance of wildlife and fragile environment, so it is best to leave your pup at home!

    The topographic variety of the Point Reyes Peninsula boasts unrivaled hiking experiences. Exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna, as well as the grandeur of the Pacific coastline, this outdoor oasis offers an adventure for everyone. Most of the routes in the National Seashore are easy-going and manageable for hikers of all skill levels and ages. Located so close to San Francisco, this natural oasis is a popular city escape we encourage you to indulge in.

    The 12 Epic Hiking Routes in the Point Reyes National Seashore

    Though it was difficult, we narrowed down our favorite trails in the Point Reyes National Seashore for you to enjoy. Here you can find hikes that cater to families with younger children and treks reserved for intrepid adventurers craving a challenge. No matter which route you chose, the Point Reyes Peninsula will not disappoint!

    1. Alamere Falls Trail - The Alamere Falls Trail is the most popular hike in the National Seashore, and there is no doubt as to why. This epic adventure travels along the dramatic coastal headlands before plunging down to the shoreline to one of the world’s rare tidal falls.
    2. Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail - Indulge yourself in uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean from the postcard perfect lighthouse. This beautiful adventure climbs down over 300-odd steps to the historic lighthouse and Lens House. If you're lucky, you may even be rewarded with sights of migrating gray whales.
    3. Abbotts Lagoon Trail - The Abbotts Lagoon Trail is a picturesque seaside stroll that the whole family can enjoy! Wander through cattle ranches, wind-sculpted sand dunes, and along the lagoon. As you hike, be sure to keep an eye out for otters that inhabit the area!
    4. Tomales Point Trail - Explore the Tule Elk Reserve and indulge in breathtaking coastal vistas along the Tomales Point Trail. Traveling along the headlands abundant with wildflowers, past historic sites, and down to the tip of the peninsula—this trek packs a punch.
    5. Sky Trail and Bear Valley Loop - The Sky Trail and Bear Valley Loop is an extraordinary adventure that travels through fog-shrouded forestlands pierced with sunbeams. This adventure boasts a magical experience that intermediate hikers and families with older children can enjoy!
    6. Bear Valley and Coast Trail - Bear Valley is one of the most popular areas in the park due to its unparalleled beauty. Wander through the forested canyon adorned with charming creeks before opening to the rugged coastline. This trek provides the perfect opportunity for wildlife spotting!
    7. Bolinas Ridge Loop - The Bolinas Ridge Loop is actually situated just outside the perimeter of the Point Reyes National Seashore, but it's one of our favorites so we had to include it! Meander through redwood stands, cattle ranches, and coastal prairies along this scenic route.
    8. Chimney Rock Trail - Spot lounging elephant seals and enjoy epic ocean views along the Chimney Rock Trail. This easy-going adventure stretches across the grassy headlands to an overlook of the majestic creatures.
    9. Bass Lake Hike - Cool off in the waters of Bass Lake along this trek. This wonderful hike explores the shoreline cliffs before diverting inland to Bass Lake. Spend the day swimming in the picture-perfect lake along the Pacific coast.
    10. South Beach Trail - Otherwise known as “The Great Beach”, the South Beach Trail stretches along the shoreline of the pristine beach. Have a picnic, throw a ball, and explore the stunning beach. Adventurers of all skill levels and ages can enjoy this walk.
    11. Earthquake Trail - Want to learn more about the San Andreas Fault? The Earthquake Trail uncovers the geology of the area as you wander the path lined with interpretive signs over the fault. Equally as scenic as it is educational, the whole family will love this adventure.
    12. Elephant Seal Overlook Trail - The Elephant Seal Overlook Trail is a short but scenic trail to an observation point overlooking Drakes Beach. Bring a pair of binoculars and enjoy the sights of the lounging elephant seals and their pups below.

    When is the Best Time to Visit the Point Reyes National Seashore?

    Visit the Point Reyes National Seashore in the fall and spring for the best weather. During the shoulder season, the coastal area sees less fog and rain, making it an ideal time for those coming to indulge in the ocean views! Due to its geographic location, the region lacks the contrast of extreme heat or cold, offering adventure pursuits year-round. The winter months along the coast see more rain and intense wind. On the other hand, if you head out in the warmer season, you can expect thick fog in the early morning which will usually burn off by mid-afternoon. No matter the time of year, we encourage visitors to dress in layers, as the coast can bring unexpected weather at a moment’s notice.

    Other Outdoor Activities in the Point Reyes National Seashore

    The Point Reyes National Seashore area is, above all else, a hiker’s haven; boasting an extensive network of routes throughout the preserve and the Philip Burton Wilderness. Explore the lush woodlands, brush-covered hills, estuaries, headlands, historic sites, and beaches by foot for the most immersive experience.

    In addition to trekking, the park is a popular camping and wildlife viewing area. Explore the Tule Elk Reserve, do some birding, overlook the elephant seal population sunning on Drakes Beach, and watch gray whales migrating from Mexico to Alaska. Those with an intrepid spirit can even rent a sea kayak and head out into the surf! Though the outdoor pursuits are limited in the Point Reyes National Seashore, the scenery is unparalleled in its beauty and grandeur, which is in and of itself a reason to visit the area.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Point Reyes National Seashore

    What is the Point Reyes National Seashore known for?

    The Point Reyes National Seashore is known for its dramatic landscape—the surging surf of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the headlands, pristine beaches, coastal grasslands, lush forests, and estuaries.

    Why does the Point Reyes National Seashore close?

    Sections of beach along the Point Reyes Headlands are subject to yearly closures to protect the nursing elephant seal pups. Check out the NPS website for additional information on wildlife closures.

    Does the Point Reyes National Seashore have a beach?

    Yes, there are many beaches in the Point Reyes National Seashore. The most popular beach is the 17.7 km stretch nicknamed “The Great Beach”, more commonly known as the Point Reyes South Beach.

    What is there to do in the Point Reyes National Seashore?

    The Point Reyes National Seashore is a great place for hiking, sightseeing, whale watching, birding, kayaking, camping, and more!

    Are dogs allowed in the Point Reyes National Seashore

    The Point Reyes National Seashore is not a dog-friendly preserve. Pups are allowed on only three beaches— Kehoe, Limantour, and Great Beach, and one trail—the Kehoe Beach Trail.

    Awesome Adventure Tours near Point Reyes

    Check out our awesome Point Reyes hiking tour on 10Adventures! This epic 6-day adventure travels along the rugged Pacific coastline along the best trails to the must-see sites. For an active exploration of the California coast, the Point Reyes Hiking Tour cannot be topped!

    Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California

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    Best Hikes in Point Reyes National Seashore

    Open details for Alamere Falls Trail

    Alamere Falls Trail

    Hard
    21.9 km
    552 m
    5.5-7.5h

    The Alamere Falls Trail travels to one of the world’s rare tidal falls, which surges 12 m over the Point Reyes National Seashore. Located in the Bay Area, this beautiful hike boasts the perfect opportunity to escape the city and rediscover our world’s natural beauty. This spectacular adventure will not disappoint—you have our word!

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    Open details for Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail

    Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail

    Easy
    2.1 km
    101 m
    0.5-1h

    The Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail offers postcard-worthy scenes of the Californian coast and the charming lighthouse. Hike down 300 odd steps to the historic site and marvel in the uninterrupted panoramas of the Pacific Ocean from the headlands.

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    Open details for Abbotts Lagoon Trail

    Abbotts Lagoon Trail

    Easy
    5.3 km
    57 m
    1-1.5h

    The Abbotts Lagoon Trail is a picturesque adventure through sand dunes, along the banks of the lagoons to a quiet beach on the Pacific. Impressively scenic and easy-going—hikers of all skill levels and ages can participate in this seaside stroll.

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    Open details for Tomales Point Trail

    Tomales Point Trail

    Moderate
    15.1 km
    359 m
    3.5-5h

    Hiking the Tomales Point Trail is an incredible experience. Wander along dramatic cliff sides, meadowlands abundant with wildflowers, the Tule Elk Reserve, past historic sites, and along sandy terrain to the Tomales Point Peninsula. This trek packs a punch, and we can’t recommend it enough!

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    Open details for Sky Trail and Bear Valley Loop

    Sky Trail and Bear Valley Loop

    Hard
    19.6 km
    564 m
    5-7h

    The Sky Trail and Bear Valley Loop is an extraordinary day hike in the Point Reyes National Seashore featuring dramatic coastal treks and relaxing meanders through the enchanting forestlands. Most days you will be treated to fog-shrouded views of the looming firs and pines trees pierced with sunbeams. This magical adventure is a must-add to your hiking itinerary.

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    Open details for Bear Valley and Coast Trail

    Bear Valley and Coast Trail

    Moderate
    16.1 km
    224 m
    3.5-5h

    The Bear Valley and Coast Trail is an incredible adventure in the Point Reyes National Seashore that exhibits the beauty and diversity of the coastal environment. Explore the fog-shrouded forest before opening up to sweeping ocean views from the fragile headlands. This hiking route is one of a kind, and we cannot recommend it enough.

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    Open details for Bolinas Ridge Loop

    Bolinas Ridge Loop

    Moderate
    17.4 km
    452 m
    4.5-6h

    The Bolinas Ridge Loop is a stunning adventure through diverse topographies in the Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Located near San Francisco, this route is an ideal escape from the city. Reconnect with nature and get a workout in as you venture this scenic trail.

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    Open details for Chimney Rock Trail

    Chimney Rock Trail

    Very Easy
    3.1 km
    82 m
    1h

    The Chimney Rock Trail is an underrated adventure in the Point Reyes National Seashore. Compared to the Point Reyes Lighthouse Trail, this route sees less traffic but boasts equally picturesque scenes of the coastline.

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    Open details for Bass Lake Hike

    Bass Lake Hike

    Easy
    9.7 km
    239 m
    2.5-3.5h

    The Bass Lake Hike offers the best of both worlds—coastal views and a lake. What more could you ask for? This family-friendly adventure wanders along the dramatic headlands before guiding explorers beneath the tree canopy to picture-perfect lake.

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    Open details for Wildcat Camp Trail

    Wildcat Camp Trail

    Hard
    20.4 km
    663 m
    5.5-7.5h

    Reconnect with nature, enjoy epic views and get your heart pumping along the Wildcat Camp Trail. This scenic hike in the Point Reyes National Seashore travels through forested valleys, meadowlands, coastal grasslands, and creek canyons down to Wildcat Beach on the Pacific.

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