The Iconic Hiking Trail In Northern California Is One Of The Coolest Outdoor Adventures You’ll Ever Take

One of Northern California’s numerous iconic hiking trails is the Tomales Point Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore. This iconic hiking trail in Northern California promises one of the coolest outdoor adventures you'll ever embark upon. The 9.5-mile out-and-back trail is generally considered moderately challenging and it takes about 4 hours to complete. In addition to ocean views, you might see majestic Northern California native elk on your hike.

Situated at the end of the Point Reyes Peninsula, the Tomales Point Trailhead is the trail you’ll want to hike if you like cool, crisp ocean air and incredible views.

The trail is open year-round, revealing slightly different scenery throughout the year. Typically, the region is covered in fog, creating a moody and serene scene. In the spring, visitors can see blooming wildflowers along the trail. Whether you visit on a foggy day or a clear day, Tomales Point Trail will delight you with its stunning scenery.

The journey begins by passing along the west side of Pierce Point Ranch, leading hikers through coastal scrub to the top of tall coastal bluffs.

On the first mile of the trail, you’ll be blown away by the jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, fog permitting. As the trail progresses, it reaches Windy Gap, a location providing an opportunity to glimpse of Tule Elk.

For those seeking a shorter hike, Windy Gap serves as an ideal turning point, offering a 2-mile round trip hike.

Continue on if you want to take the 6-mile round trip to the Lower Pierce Point Ranch site. However, if you're up for a more extended adventure, continue north along the ridge crest, ascending to the highest point along the trail at approximately 2.25 miles. Beyond this peak, the trail descends steeply, leading to the Lower Pierce Point Ranch site, where elk, herons, and ducks often make an appearance. A birder's paradise!

The trail's final stretch is a 1.7-mile hike to the tip of Tomales Point. Word of caution: It is an unmaintained, sandy path often overgrown with bush lupine.

Long pants and sleeves are advisable for this section. Due to the steep cliffs and fog, it’s important to be cautious, especially near the bluffs since they can be unstable.

The Tomales Point Trail is mostly within the Phillip Burton Wilderness, which is within Point Reyes National Seashore.

Pets are not allowed on the trail, and visitors are asked to adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

As with any outdoor adventure, before heading out you’ll want to check current weather and road conditions.

Be sure to also familiarize yourself with park regulations and print out your trail map just in case you don’t have service on the trail. And since it can be very windy and cold, it's a wise idea to wear warm layers.

The National Seashore and the trail are open year-round, providing a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore. From the historic lighthouse to Tule Elk and breathtaking coastal views, this region of Northern California offers a wealth of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. After your hike, don't forget to explore the nearby town of Point Reyes Station. With its incredible restaurants and nearby wineries, this area of Northern California is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.