Tomales Point Trail

Location: Point Reyes National Seashore; Near Marshall, CA

Distance: 9.4 miles

Type: Day-hike; Out-and-back

Rating: Moderate

Dog Friendly?: No dogs allowed on this trail.

Permits & Fees: There is no parking fee at the trailhead. The lot fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early.

Driving Directions to Trailhead: Click HERE (Located next to Pierce Point Ranch).

Preparation: Water, sunscreen and warm clothing if hiking during the winter months are required.

The Hike:

After parking at the trailhead lot, locate the trailhead sign which mark the start of the hike:

Continue on the dirt path until the next sign is reached (it reads “Tomales Point Trail – 4.7 miles”):

From here, the trail follows along the coast for the majority of the hike. Note that although the trail is easy to follow, the elevation gain varies; quite a bit of the hike is a gradual uphill climb:

Keep an eye out for the herds of elk that roam around the trail. Depending on the time of year, there may be several herds:

At the 4 mile mark, the following sign is reached (it reads “Unmaintained Trail”). The last portion of the trail is made up of sand and is partly uphill- this is one of the tougher parts of the hike, but it is only a short distance until the Point is reached:

Take your time at the Point and enjoy the views! On a clear day, Dillon Beach can be seen to the right of the Point.

Take the same trail to get back to the trailhead.