01
Closest ridge escape
Bolinas Ridge Trail
Above Dogtown On Bolinas Ridge • Rolling Forest-And-Ridge Day Hike • Closest Big Hike To Dogtown
A rolling ridge-top route with quick access from Dogtown and wide-open views over Bolinas Lagoon, Olema Valley, and Point Reyes.
From the pullouts just north of Dogtown, you can head straight up onto Bolinas Ridge and walk as far as your legs allow before turning around. The trail alternates between shaded forest, grassy meadows, and fenced pasture, with frequent breaks in the trees for big coastal panoramas. Expect mud in winter and cows on the trail, but also some of the most immediate payoff hiking in the area.
02
Iconic coastal waterfall
Palomarin Trail to Alamere Falls
Palomarin, South Of Bolinas • Coastal Bluff And Lake Trek • Most Dramatic Coastal Outing
A popular coastal trail past ponds and pocket coves that, with extra effort, delivers you to a rare waterfall dropping onto the beach.
Starting from the Palomarin trailhead beyond Bolinas, this route follows the Coast Trail past views of the Farallon Islands, freshwater ponds, and side paths to small beaches. Most hikers continue on to Alamere Falls, where the creek spills directly onto the sand, but tides and surf need to be checked before committing to the final scramble. Go early on weekends, as the rough access road and limited parking back up quickly.
03
Best all-abilities intro
Bear Valley Trail
Bear Valley, Near Olema • Shaded Canyon Walk Toward The Coast • Best For Mixed Groups
A mostly gentle, sheltered trail from the Bear Valley Visitor Center that follows a lush creek canyon toward the coast.
Just north of Dogtown at the Point Reyes Bear Valley Visitor Center, this wide path threads through alder, bay, and fir, with creek crossings and mossy banks that stay green late into summer. Many walkers turn around at Divide Meadow for an easy outing, while stronger hikers can continue toward the ocean overlook where the canyon opens to the surf. It is an excellent choice on foggy, windy days when exposed ridges feel less inviting.
04
Windy elk peninsula
Tomales Point Trail
Pierce Point, North Point Reyes • Exposed Peninsula Ridge Walk • Best Wildlife And Elk Viewing
A long, exposed out-and-back on a narrow peninsula with sweeping ocean views and near-guaranteed tule elk sightings.
Farther from Dogtown but worth the drive, Tomales Point starts at the historic Pierce Point Ranch and heads along a narrow spine between Tomales Bay and the open Pacific. The tread is straightforward but exposed, and the full route feels big and wild, with elk grazing on the hillsides and breakers booming below. Plan for wind, fog, and no shade, and turn around early if the sand and ups and downs begin to add up.
05
Classic Mount Tam loop
Matt Davis–Steep Ravine Loop
Stinson Beach And Mount Tamalpais • Redwood Canyon And Coastal Bluff Loop • Most Immersive Full-Day Hike
A demanding loop that links redwood-filled Steep Ravine with airy Matt Davis Trail views above Stinson Beach.
A favorite among locals, this loop typically starts in Stinson Beach and climbs through lush redwood forest, ladders, and bridges in Steep Ravine before looping back on the Matt Davis Trail’s rolling coastal terraces. The elevation gain is real and some sections are rocky or damp, but nearly every turn delivers a new perspective on the ocean or the mountain. Aim for a clear, cool day, bring plenty of water, and arrive early, as parking near the beach fills quickly.