Hike Log

If you hike it, yay will come!!!

Trailhead:

Stinson Beach

Trail Conditions:

ROAD:

Bugs:

Snow:

Umm…beach, redwoods, mountain peak, spectacular bay area views? Yes please?

This hike does not disappoint on any level, but be prepared – it's a long day through multiple climates. I started out at the Stinson Beach parking lot. At 9:00 AM on a late September Saturday it, surprisingly, had only a few cars. But filled up by the time I returned in the afternoon. (Obviously, much more crowded in the Summer.) From here you take a short walk through town, where you can pick up supplies on the way up, or on your return. This beginning, and end, of your hike will likely be cool and damp. As soon as you break from town (Just a few blocks) you are pitched relentlessly upward through beautiful redwoods. This was by far the best part of the hike itself for me, still damp, but much warmer. I had a layer of condensation all over me by the time I broke above the treeline, which opened up an incredible view.

The ocean was not visible for me today. But the top of the marine layer, like fresh powder, extended west as far as the eye could see. It's thin strands spilling over the coastal mountains, and The City itself, down into The Bay. Really, an incredible sight to see. From here you continue on through narrow trails, dirt roads, and an amphitheater with seats made of stone. On exiting the amphitheater a sign warns wary travelers to “Keep Out: Rattlesnake Den”. An ominous warning that made another hiker, and myself, question moving forward. Then a trail runner came through with no hesitation and I felt a little foolish. But watched the ground incessantly and twitched at every noise for at least half a mile, or so. (None were seen on my journey today.) Eventually, you come out to a dirt road near the West Point Inn where lots of hikers and mountain bikers are congregating. (If you haven't heard of it, I recommend googling it.) At this point you can see the top most of the way which helps motivate you the rest of the way.

There is a small parking area near the top with restrooms and drinking fountains if you need refills. Then it is a short climb to the peak and lookout tower. One of the few times I wanted to stay longer than I was able to. The 360 degree view gives a vantage of so many different parts of the Bay Area you can hardly take it all in. The Ocean, San Francisco, Sonoma, the Bay and all of it's bridges, even Mt Diablo standing in opposition to the east. On the way down, I highly recommend taking a different trail, especially between Pantoll Campground and Stinson Beach. You may just be surprised by a big wooden ladder that you have to climb up, or down, depending on your direction. Either way, the beach beckons and I was not going to deny it. I stayed long enough to see the sun go down and headed home…perfectly content.

All in all, this was a 7 hour hike at a decent pace, with 2 short breaks to refuel. That's a long day, but a great hike. It's also one that could be done in sections on different visits, as there are several way points where the trails connect with the roadway. I will definitely be back for the beach and the loop to Pantoll and back. This stretch alone, with the creeks, wooden bridges, stairs and ladder, and giant redwoods, is well worth the trip. Definitely one that I will hike again.

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