The peninsula that is Point Reyes is a beautiful area that holds over 150 miles of hiking trails. That’s crazy, right!? So if hiking is your thing, you have a lot of options. But when it comes to actually have to pick out a hike, a number of options can be a little overwhelming.
I’ve been out to Point Reyes National Seashore a few times now. And I could be wrong, but I think I’ve hiked the most popular trails. So, I thought I’d jot down a few of my favorites and make picking out a hike a little easier.
Here are four hikes (and one attraction) that you’ve got to add to your list if you’re planning to spend the day in Point Reyes.
The Hike To Alamere Falls
Imagine a creek spilling over a bluff, dropping 40ft onto the beach below, and finally making its way out into the sea. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Alamere Falls.
If you decide to tackle this hike, you’ll want to make a day of it. The drive out to Point Reyes will take about 1.5 hours (from San Francisco). And since it’s a 7.5-mile out-and-back trail, plan for about 4 hours to complete the hike. Plus, you’re in such a lovely spot, so you’ll definitely want to stay awhile, which means you don’t want to forget to pack a light picnic and enjoy a day on the beach (next to a waterfall!).
Unfortunately, I have old (not so great) photos from my hike out to Alamere Falls, otherwise, I’d share a few with you. So, you’ll just have to Google it and believe me! 🙂
Tomales Point Trail
Here’s another day hike that you’ll want to plan for. If you’re looking for amazing panoramic views of the ocean and wildlife to boot (lots of tule elk), this is the hike for you! This 9.5-mile out-and-back hike will bring you out to the tip of Tomales Point.
You feel a sense of accomplishment once you get out to the final vista point. It’s been a long hike and you literally can’t go any further. It feels as though you’re on the edge of the world. On one side you have Tomales Bay and on the other side is the Pacific Ocean. And just the bluffs and the ocean below.
It’s a good time to take a break, enjoy the view and eat a quick snack. Because you’re going to need energy for the hike back! 😉
Before you head back to the city, make sure to stop and make the quick hike down to McClures Beach. It’s just near the Tomales Point Trailhead.
Headland Overlook Trail at Chimney Rock
I have a soft spot in my heart for the trail out to Chimney Rock. Because it’s an impressive spot for wildflowers. And I love wildflowers.
Pro tip: The best time to go is in April and May when the wildflowers are in full bloom.
The drive out to Chimney Rock is also quite lovely. Plus, this 1.8-mile out-and-back hike has exceptional ocean views.
Point Reyes Lighthouse
Built in 1870, the Point Reyes Lighthouse is a must-see if you’re in the area.
Just before heading down to the lighthouse, make a quick stop at the Point Reyes Coastline Vista Point.
And then don’t forget to take a snap of the famous leaning Monterey Cypress Tree. I missed it the first time. A complete amateur on my first trip to the Point Reyes Lighthouse. Seriously, so many professional photographers take pictures of it. You’ve probably seen it in your Instagram feed.
The stairs at Point Reyes Lighthouse are a little brutal. Plan on getting a workout when you head back up. But the view is worth it.
Oh! And be on the lookout for blue whales migrating out in the distance. The day that I was there, I saw two! It helps that they have guides helping you spot them. 🙂
Point Reyes Abandoned Boat
Stop in Inverness and you’ll find the iconic boat. Now slightly scarred due to a recent fire, this shipwrecked beauty can’t be missed on your way out to Point Reyes National Seashore.
The S.S. Point Reyes is also one of those iconic Point Reyes spots that you’ve probably seen on Instagram. Thankfully, I wasn’t an amateur on this trip (unlike at the Point Reyes Lighthouse) and snapped a pretty good photo.
Plus, the boat is located in the cutest little town, so you’ll want to stop and have a look around.
Other Places To Check Out
So, I don’t have much detail for you on the following. Only that I really want to check them out myself! Here are a few places that are still on my to-do list in Point Reyes:
- Cypress Tree Tunnel (you can find this on your way to Point Reyes Lighthouse)
- Stay at the Point Reyes Seashore Lodge in Olema, CA
- Do a little food tour of Cowgirl Creamery and Hog Island Oyster Co. Shucks!
Let’s go places,
Sarah
And there’s so much more to see in Point Reyes! Share some of your favorite spots in the comments section below.
All photos on this blog are mine. Feel free to share but please credit me with a link back to the blog. Much appreciated and thank you for your support!
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