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    Hikes/United States/California/Point Reyes National Seashore

    Elephant Seal Overlook Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    0.8 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    13 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    The Elephant Seal Overlook Trail is a great adventure to a lookout that the whole family can enjoy. Hike along the headlands to an overlook of Drakes Bay and an elephant seal site. You'll know you are in the correct location by the sounds of the seals barking!

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    Route Description for Elephant Seal Overlook Trail

    Hikers of all skill levels and ages will enjoy this short and scenic stroll to the Elephant Seal Overlook. Located near the Point Reyes Lighthouse and the Chimney Rock Trail, this path sees plenty of traffic, so expect to share the route! If you are seeking a more secluded experience, then we encourage you to head out in the early morning. As this hike is located on an exposed coastal peninsula, you can almost guarantee windy or foggy conditions; make sure to dress accordingly!

    Setting out from the trailhead, hikers will be guided northwest along the Seal Overlook Trail. Wander the path through the coastal grasslands, enjoying the sounds of the crashing surf below. As you hike you will be granted views of Drakes Bay and the beautiful beaches that border the waters. Soon you will reach the overlook.

    Enjoy the scenes of the elephant seals sunning on the beach and playing in the waters below. Admire the beauty of the California coast, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Elephant Seal Overlook Trail Trailhead

    Find the trailhead for this hike off Sir Frances Drake Boulevard.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Extreme

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Elephant Seal Overlook Trail Elevation Graph

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    Elephant Seal Overlook Trail Reviews

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