01
Best overall pick
Dipsea Trail
Downtown Trailhead Toward Stinson Beach • Iconic Ridge-To-Coast Route • Classic Marin Epic
A legendary, stair-filled rollercoaster of a trail that dives from Mill Valley toward the ocean with big views the whole way.
Starting near downtown Mill Valley, the Dipsea climbs quickly through neighborhoods and redwoods before breaking out onto open hillsides with sweeping views toward the Pacific. You can turn around at a viewpoint for a shorter out-and-back or push farther toward Stinson Beach for the full, demanding experience. Expect steep stairs, narrow singletrack, and a true taste of local trail culture.
02
Best redwood immersion
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods Canyon Just Above Mill Valley • Old-Growth Redwood Canyon Walk • Best For First-Time Visitors
A gentle boardwalk-and-trail network winding through towering coastal redwoods just a short, twisty drive from Mill Valley.
Muir Woods offers easy, mostly flat walking under some of the tallest and oldest trees in Marin, with loops that can be tailored to almost any ability level. The main canyon path is crowded but magical, especially early in the morning when the light filters through the fog. More experienced hikers can climb out of the canyon on side trails to connect with Mount Tam’s larger network.
03
Best summit views
Mount Tamalpais East Peak
Mount Tamalpais State Park High Country • Summit Climb With Wide-Open Views • Top Summit Challenge
A rewarding ascent to Mount Tam’s East Peak, where the Bay Area spreads out below in nearly every direction on a clear day.
Most hikers start from the East Peak parking area or nearby trailheads and loop around the upper mountain on rocky, exposed paths. The final push up the stone steps to the fire lookout is short but steep, and the payoff is a panoramic view that takes in San Francisco, the Bay, and the Farallon Islands on rare clear days. Go on a crisp morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid midday heat on the exposed sections.
04
Best mellow outing
Tennessee Valley Trail
Marin Headlands Near Mill Valley • Gentle Valley-To-Beach Stroll • Relaxed Weekend Wander
A mostly flat walk through a wide coastal valley ending at a pocket beach framed by cliffs and crashing surf.
Just a short drive from Mill Valley, the Tennessee Valley Trail follows a dirt road-grade path that’s popular with families, casual hikers, and birdwatchers. The wide valley feels surprisingly remote, especially when the fog is hanging low and the only sounds are birds and the ocean. Add a side trip up one of the surrounding hills if you want extra elevation and broader views of the Headlands.
05
Best forest-and-coast combo
Steep Ravine and Matt Davis Loop
Panoramic Highway Corridor Above Stinson Beach • Waterfall-Filled Forest Loop With Coastal Vistas • Scenic Half-Day Adventure
A classic loop that threads through lush, ladder-crossed ravines before traversing open bluffs high above Stinson Beach.
Often done from the Pantoll area or near the Steep Ravine trailhead, this loop gives you cool, mossy forest, wooden ladders, small waterfalls, and then a graceful traverse with constant ocean views. The climbing is steady but broken up by varied terrain, making it feel adventurous without being extreme. It’s a favorite for visitors who want a single hike that showcases both Mount Tam’s redwood side and its coastal drama.