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    Sunset Beach Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    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.
    3-4h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    12.1 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.
    269 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    The Sunset Beach Trail is a wonderful adventure in the Point Reyes National Seashore that offers views of the bays, rolling hills, estuaries, and wildlife! This family-friendly hike boasts a diversity of scenery and a variety of flora and fauna.

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    Route Description for Sunset Beach Trail

    Hiking this route makes for an incredible day outdoors. Wander through the rolling green hills and farms along Home Bay, Drakes Estero, and the coast. This route is ideal for wildlife viewing, as it offers plenty of birding opportunities, chances to spot elephant seals, and elk! As this route is exposed to the elements, we encourage you to dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions, which are common along the coast. Note: this area is subject to yearly closures to protect the nursing seal pups; refer to the NPS website for additional information on wildlife closures.

    Setting out from the Estero Trailhead, the Sunset Beach Trail travels south along the Estero Trail. This path will guide you down to the estuary, crossing a footbridge over Home Bay. From this point forward, the path will undulate along the banks of Drakes Estero and through cattle ranches, boasting incredible views of the waters and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Eventually, you will confront an intersection with the Sunset Beach Trail. Keep right here and follow this path towards the coast.

    The route will eventually guide you to a beach, where you can often find lounging elephant seals. Enjoy the wonderful scenery, then retrace your footing along the route back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Sunset Beach Trail Trailhead

    Find the Estero Trailhead off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      No

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Sunset Beach Trail Elevation Graph

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    Sunset Beach Trail Reviews

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