Hike Log

Mount Tam, the Final Exam

Trailhead:

Stinson Beach via Webb creek steep ravine trail up, matt davis down

Miles:

Type of Hike:

Day hike

Trail Conditions:

Trail in good condition

ROAD:

Road suitable for all vehicles

Bugs:

No bugs

Snow:

Snow free

Link:

6 of 6 complete!

I arrived at the parking area at 9am on a foggy Sunday morning, and there were plenty of parking spaces in the big lot, with at least 1/2 of the beach parking empty (no fee). The start/end of the hike is at a beautiful beach, and I watched the surfers while waiting for my hiking buddy for the day to arrive.

We opt'ed for a loop route from the Stinson Beach to Mount Tam that first follows Webb creek and uses the Matt Davis on the way down.  (https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/stinson-beach-to-mount-tamalpais).  Given the length and elevation gain of this trail, I thought this trail would be tougher than it was for us. Our total time was 10 hours hiking, at a relaxed intermediate pace and taking a lengthy break at the top to check out the views. The last half of the ascent on Fern Creek Trail are hot and exposed to the sun and made me glad I was doing the hike in spring and not summer, but most of the lower elevation trails are through wooded areas providing nice cover and pass alongside beautiful creeks. Absolutely amazing views, especially at the peak and before the last couple mile descent back to Stinson Beach.  The route down on Railroad Grade fire road takes you past the historic West Point Inn.

The area was populated with many other hikers (and bikers on the road), but the trails did not feel crowded (except for resting at the summit). Be careful of poison oak growing off the sides of the lower sections of the trail, especially if stepping off to the side to let people pass. The water taps at the peak was turned off, but potable water could be found at Bootjack campground.

At the end of the day, we soaked our feet in the ocean just as the sun was setting and grabbed some well deserved burgers/hot dogs at the snack shack right next to the beach. Overall, a lovely Sunday and a great end to the hiking challenge!

 

 

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