Trail Guide & Suggested Hikes

 
A single-track dirt path through grasses and wildflowers atop a foggy coastal bluff.
Tomales Point Trail lined with wild radish.

NPS / A. Kopshever

 

Explore Point Reyes on Foot!

Hiking opportunities in Point Reyes are seemingly endless. Find solitude in Douglas-fir forests, take in iconic views of the Pacific Ocean or traverse the rolling coastal hillsides—sometimes all in one hike!

These route descriptions alone are not a substitute for a trail map. Download a trail map or purchase one at a park bookstore prior to hiking.

Additional information and tips about hiking may be found on our Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore page.

Use the guide below to search for hikes by time, habitat, or location.

Trail Advisories and Closures

Please observe all trail closures and barriers. Trails are closed for a variety of reasons, such as for visitor safety, to protect endangered species, to prevent erosion, and/or to allow new sections of trail to harden. Visitors who disregard trail closures may endanger themselves and any potential rescuers, harm threatened and endangered species, exacerbate erosion, or prevent new sections of trail from properly hardening, which results in the degradation of the trail surface, which in turn may require the closing of the trail for repair. Thank you for your cooperation.

Caution: Most trails in the park are overgrown with grass and annuals. The park's trail crew is working to address the trail conditions as best they can, but please anticipate wading through vegetation as you hike, and check yourself for ticks during and after your hike.

Visit our Trail Advisories and Closures for current information.

By Time

Check out hiking options based on how much time you have to spend in the park.

 
  • A small child in a colorful hooded fleece looks over the side of a wooden footbridge into a creek
    Hikes Under One Hour

    Short on time? Visiting with family or looking for a mellow stroll? Explore one of these trails that offer a fun adventure in under an hour.

  • Two hikers walk along a dirt path atop a coastal bluff; a vast ocean and purple pink sunset behind.
    One to Three Hour Hikes

    Want a big adventure but don't have all day? Explore one of these routes which range in difficulty.

  • White water cascading over grass-topped coastal bluffs to a sandy ocean beach with four people below
    Hikes Over Three Hours

    Pack a day bag with the essentials before you head out to some of the park's most remote reaches!

 

By Habitat or Location

Trails at Point Reyes National Seashore pass through a wide variety of amazing habitats. Choose your hike based on what kind of areas you want to explore or what kind of wildlife you might be hoping to see!

Or do you already know where you'd like to start? Browse through the park's trailheads and find suggested routes that begin at each location.

 
  • A family of four crosses a bridge over a small stream leading to a lagoon amongst grasses and shrubs
    Coastal Hikes

    Enjoy all the coast has to offer with these hikes that take you over coastal grasslands or down to sandy beaches.

  • A single-track dirt trail bisects an expanse of green ferns and tall evergreen trees
    Forested Hikes

    Looking for shade, and maybe some solitude? Explore some of our more forested trails.

  • A metal trailhead sign to the right of a dirt path lined with lush grasses and shrubby trees
    Trailheads

    Find out more about the parking, amenities and trails that originate from each trailhead.

 

Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore
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Hiking Rules and Regulations

  • Pets are only allowed on one trail and a few beaches in Point Reyes, and must always be on a leash. Know where you can go before planning a trip with your pet.
  • Drones are not allowed anywhere in Point Reyes National Seashore.
  • Observe trail closures and warning signs. Certain areas and trails are closed for a variety of reasons including visitor safety, the protection of endangered species, and the privacy of park residents.
  • Do not feed or disturb wildlife. If your presence changes the behavior of any wild animal, you are too close.
  • Backcountry camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds with a valid permit.
  • Stay on trails to prevent erosion as well as to better avoid poison oak, stinging nettles, ticks, and yellow jackets.
  • Hikers must yield to horses on the trail, and use caution when passing by.
  • Day users traveling within designated wilderness areas may not travel in groups of more than 25 persons.

Hiking Tips and Safety

  • Check for current trail advisories and closures.
  • Leave No Trace. Take only pictures; leave only footprints.
  • If you're heading for the coast, check local weather and tide information before your hike, or inquire at any visitor center.
  • Always prepared for sudden changes in the weather with plenty of extra layers.
  • Carry plenty of food and water. Potable water is available at the park's visitor centers and backcountry campgrounds. Do not drink water from untreated sources.
  • Allow a 2 mile per hour pace (3 km/h) for an average hiker, not including stops.
  • Tell a friend where you are going if you travel alone.
 
  • A park ranger points to a sign saying this area is closed due to fire danger, a small boy looks on.
    Current Conditions

    Between variable weather, seasonal closures to protect wildlife or emergencies—it's important to check conditions before heading out!

  • A blonde haired girl takes a photo of a blurred animal in a grassy field through a wooden fence.
    Leave No Trace

    Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Learn how to minimize your impact while visiting Point Reyes.

  • A dog with a light brown face and dark brown, large ears, on an orange leash on the beach
    Visiting with Your Pet

    Know where to go and what you can do in the park with your four-legged friend.

 

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Last updated: August 13, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Phone:

415-464-5100
This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (e.g., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc.), or speak with a ranger. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call.

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