Mt. Tamalpais California - A Paradise of Biking & HikingTrails

Hiking, Biking or Driving Destination:   The top of the Mountain, 2,571 feet
Pronounced:  Tam (like Pam)  al (like null) pa (like pie) is (like us)

Mt. Tamalpais is twisted with over 50 miles of trails ideal to bike, hike or both.  Winding along creeks and through Redwoods, it's an experience your senses won't forget.  The L-shape of the mountain offers a magnificent mixture of ocean, beaches, lakes, woods and city views.  Take your pick.

Start your trip at the Pantoll Ranger Station at the Park Headquarters to pick up trail maps and other information. 

If you want to bike
A favorite ride for weekend city escapees is the Mt. Tamalpais Loop.  It's a workout, but again, the views can't be beat.   The ride is 22 miles and takes approximately 2 hours.

Of course you don't have to do anything so strenuous.   Use your trail map and go anywhere you want at your own pace.  There's something for everyone.

Bicycle Rentals
To rent a bike or participate in a guided ride (one for all levels), try Marin Off Road Mountain Bike Tours in Sausalito.  They have a variety of rides and routes, including Mtn. Biking 101 if you need a lesson. 

The ride I'd recommend if you're out for a weekend of fun and relaxation is the Oceanview.  It's an 8 1/2 mile ride, takes about half a day, gets the uphill part over with in the beginning and then coasts all the way down to Muir Beach.  And the best part. . .

You don't have to ride back (unless you want to.   You can reward yourself with dinner and drinks at the English Pub in the Pelican Inn located conveniently right where the ride ends!  The guide takes care of getting your bike shuttled back.

If you want to hike
What's your pleasure? A slow leisurely walk on paved roads?  A full day meandering through the Redwoods?  A hearty workout UPHILL?  A guided tour?   It's all here.

Hundreds of trails, from single-track to fire roads will take you to the scene of your choice.  Here's what you'll see.

• The west side has views of Stinson Beach far below. 

• The north is home to Alpine Lake, Bon Tempe Lake and Lake Lagunitas.

• To the east, Cascade Park in Mill Valley leads you to   the famous Dipsea Trail.

• The Peaks can be reached by going east, west and in the middle.

• Walk from Muir to Stinson through Redwoods - awesome.

How about a romantic Moonlight Hike?  Mt. Tamalpais State Park will guide you.  The next scheduled hike on June 26 at 8:30 p.m. is called Honey Moon, Flower Moon, Strawberry Moon.

If you like the guided idea, but would rather be eating lobster, they offer hikes in June on  Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m.

If you are very ambitious, take the strenuous, but spectacular, Steep Ravine Trail.  You need to be in pretty good shape for this 7 mile challenge that gets steep about 8 times.  If you would like to get the complete route you can click here http://www.marintrails.com/Hikes/hike3.html

And since you're here, why not just stay the night.   The Pelican Inn is one of the coziest places around. 

Pelican Inn

It reeks of English Tudor and rich Victorian elegance.   The beach is just steps away.  Go take a look at the rooms at
http://www.pelicaninn.com/rooms.html

If your timing is right, you can experience another unusual treat, The Mountain Play.  Also known as Cushing Memorial Theatre, this unique outdoor amphitheater, high in the clouds on Mt Tamalpais, stages plays in May and June every year.  

This year you can munch on your picnic lunch and soak up the exquisite environment of the Bay Area's crown jewel while watching a classic play.

Check the mountain theatre web site for details.
http://www.mountainplay.org/

Just a few other ideas:

If you like to camp, you must try out the Steep Ravine Cabins. 

Steep Ravine Cabins

Sitting high on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, these rustic little cabins provide bunk beds and views.  It's camping, remember?

The experience is well worth the $30 nightly fee.   Good idea to call ahead; they book quickly.

You don't have to drive or hike the mountain.  You can drive the whole loop, see the views from the comfort of your car and stop along the way for lunch or drinks at little place you happen on.

Try the Mountain Home Inn. 

Mountain Home Inn

You can sit on the deck and bathe in a spectacular view of Marin County.

For a spiritual stay, stop at the Green Gulch Farm Zen Center.  You'll find it on the loop in a valley that opens into the Pacific Ocean.   You may stay a night or a week (or as long as you want). 

You may meditate for days or on occasion.  The center offers meditation retreats, workshops and extended sittings. 

The objective is to awaken the bodhisattva spirit (the spirit of kindness and realistic helpfulness) spirit in people.  You will leave refreshed and with a sense of well being.

Mt Tamalpais State Park
801 Panoramic Highway
(Hwy 1 exit off 101, go west)

Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 388-2070

Now...back on the road...