Trek the Beautiful Tomales Point Trail in Point Reyes

Immerse yourself in nature, marvel at panoramic coastal views, and spot majestic Tule elk on this spectacular hike in Point Reyes National Seashore!

Free
388 Miles from you
State Gem: Exceptional experiences within your state that are bucket list-worthy
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Description

Begin your adventure at the Tomales Point Trailhead, and follow the well-trodden path along the west side of Pierce Point Ranch. The trail takes you through coastal scrub and atop tall bluffs, offering unparalleled views of Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. The hike is located within the Tule Elk Reserve, giving you a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close. With its out-and-back format, the trail provides flexibility, allowing you to choose the length of your hike. The first mile boasts stunning ocean views, perfect for catching a sunset, while further along the trail, you'll come across Windy Gap, a great spot for elk viewing. As you continue, you'll reach Lower Pierce Point Ranch and eventually, the tip of Tomales Point, where long pants and sleeves are recommended due to the unmaintained, overgrown trail.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Arrive at Tomales Point Trailhead
Hike along the west side of Pierce Point Ranch
Enjoy coastal views and wildlife sightings
Reach Windy Gap, Lower Pierce Point Ranch, and Tomales Point (optional)
Return to the trailhead

Location

Pierce Point Rd, Inverness, CA 94937

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Packing List

Sturdy hiking shoes
Plenty of water and snacks
Layered clothing for varying weather conditions
Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
Camera or smartphone for photos
Trail map for navigation

4.8 ● Google reviews

It is a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty, ideal for the whole family, including young kids. This trail, less than 10 miles long with around 1,000 feet in elevation gain, is pleasantly manageable and not overly strenuous. As you meander along, you're treated to the dynamic views of the ocean, observing the tides shift from high to low, adding a serene backdrop to your journey. One of the highlights is the opportunity to capture the majestic elks in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable photographic moment. The path is adorned with a vibrant array of wildflowers, seamlessly blending into the scenic beauty of the trail. It's a wonderful spectacle that reminds you of the simple joys nature offers. This trail is what you would expect when looking to enjoy the gifts of nature. It invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the outdoors, appreciate the wildlife, and take in the breathtaking landscapes that change with the tides. It's an experience that's both grounding and uplifting, encouraging everyone to come and embrace the wonders of the natural world.

My partner and I arrived at Tomales Point Trail around 10AM on a Saturday and we could not believe how quiet the drive was entering the preserve. After we arrived, not more the 30min-1hr later and scores of families started the trail. My recommendation if you want to have the place almost to yourself is to arrive between 8AM and 9AM. The preserve is very peaceful and you could spot a variety of different animals. The trail itself is not very challenging. The superbloom of flowers was the main reason for our visit. So if you can avoid the crowds, I would recommend this trail and give 5 stars. If you found my review helpful, please follow my local guide profile to see my experiences with other destinations!

This trail is beautiful, even though we got hit with rain halfway through our hike. I'm glad I got all the photos before the downpour. I'd say this is moderate to hard hike if you're doing in with rain. If it's all dry, it'll be a breeze. Make sure to bring plenty of sun screen if you're going on a sunny day, there's no shade.

What a lovely hike! We were visiting from Portland, OR for the week and a relative who lives in SF recommended this one ~ I’m glad we did it. We thought it would be much windier than it was, and with the sun out it was a perfect temperature. We explored and read about the old ranch house, and saw wild elk right off of the trail! We hiked about an hour and a half then turned around and went back. It was very easy going, suitable for older folks and children.

Great views of the ocean, stunning waves, Thule elk, deer, snakes, and a variety of birds. Bring lots of water as trail is completely exposed. Use the bathroom before hiking at the beach parking lot slightly west of the trailhead parking lot, unless you want to hide in the brush during the hike.

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