01
Best overall pick
Bear Valley Trail
Near Bear Valley Visitor Center • Shaded Creekside Canyon Hike • Local Favorite
A gently graded walk through a cool, fern-lined valley that feels miles away from town but starts just up the road.
If locals had to pick one trail to introduce a friend to Point Reyes, it would probably be Bear Valley. The path follows a tumbling creek beneath alder and bay trees, with redwoods and ferns keeping it cool even on warm days. You can turn around at Divide Meadow for a shorter stroll or continue farther toward the coast for a full-day outing.
02
Best coastal panorama
Tomales Point Trail
North End Of Point Reyes Peninsula • Exposed Coastal Bluff Trail • Best Ocean Views
A spectacular out-and-back along a narrow peninsula with sweeping ocean views and frequent tule elk sightings.
Starting near historic Pierce Point Ranch, this trail runs along grassy ridgelines that fall away to the Pacific on one side and Tomales Bay on the other. It is often windy and fully exposed, but the payoff is some of the most expansive coastal scenery in the region. Go early on clear days for calmer conditions and better chances of spotting elk grazing along the hillsides.
03
Best easy escape
Abbotts Lagoon Trail
Mid-Coast Point Reyes • Easy Lagoon And Dunes Walk • Best For Birding And Families
A mostly flat walk to a tranquil lagoon framed by dunes, ideal for a shorter outing with plenty of wildlife.
Abbotts Lagoon is a go-to when you want big scenery without a big mileage commitment. The trail winds through coastal scrub and over a small bridge before opening up to glassy water, sand dunes, and distant surf. It is a favorite spot for birders, so bring binoculars and take your time along the shoreline.
04
Most dramatic adventure
Alamere Falls via Coast Trail
South Of Point Reyes Station Near Palomarin • Long Coastal Trek To A Tidefall • Bucket-List Adventure
A longer, rugged outing that rewards committed hikers with a rare waterfall spilling directly onto the beach.
From the Palomarin trailhead, the Coast Trail undulates past ponds, cliffs, and broad ocean views before dropping toward Alamere Falls. The route is popular and can be muddy and rutted, so an early start and sturdy shoes are smart. Check tide conditions, allow plenty of time, and treat this as a true backcountry hike rather than a casual beach walk.
05
Best wildlife vantage
Chimney Rock & Elephant Seal Overlook
Outer Point Reyes Headlands • Short Cliff-Top Headlands Hike • Best For Wildlife Watching
A short, windy headlands walk that packs in surf-battered cliffs, wildflowers in season, and close-up views of elephant seals.
Driving out to Chimney Rock feels like heading to the end of the world, and the short trail makes the most of that exposed setting. In spring, the headlands can be carpeted with wildflowers, and in winter the nearby overlook lets you safely watch elephant seals hauled out on the beach below. Layer up for strong winds and give yourself time to linger at the viewpoints.