Hike Muir Beach to Tennessee Valley
While most hikes make you work for the view, this 7-mile out-and-back boasts non-stop, killer views of the California coastline. With opportunities to hike down to crowd favorites such as Muir Beach and Tennessee Valley, and the chance to explore one of the coast's tiniest coves, this hike has it all.
Head out from the southwest side of the Muir Beach parking lot and catch the Coastal Trail. Keep an eye out for the tiny Pirate's Cove about 2 miles in, and scramble down to a secluded spot that's perfect for a break. From there, climb back up and continue down the wide dirt road. Then, take a right on Tennessee Valley Trail. Follow the trail 'til you reach the beach, and when you're ready, follow it back the way you came. This trail packs a punch with its 1,800-foot elevation gain, but follows the Marin bluffs for some truly epic views.
Pack List
- Sunscreen
- Snacks
- Hiking Boots
- Sunglasses
- Water
- Camera!
| RT Distance | 7 Miles |
| Elevation Gain | 1800 Feet |
| Activities | Hiking |
| Skill Level | Intermediate |
| Season | Year Round |
| Trail Type | Out-and-Back |
| Features |
Beach
|
Reviews
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Beautiful Hike!
I️ did this hike starting from the Muir Beach parking lot, going to Coastal Fire Trail, then Tennessee Valley, and then to the Coastal trail. I️ was trying to do about a 7 mike hike, but the directions I️ was following weren’t too clear about which trail to take (often times there were two different Tennessee valley trails.) But I️ followed the Tennessee valley trail (the one that was always going uphill) for about 2 miles. About 2.5 miles in we stopped to eat and had an INCREDIBLE coastal view. We hiked back on the Coastal trail and then went backdown the Coastal fire trail. I️t ended up being about 5 miles total. Such a fun and beautiful hike. We saw deer and fawns too!
Great Hike Close to SF
I typically do this hike in reverse starting at the parking lot for Tennessee Valley (from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Tennessee Valley parking lot is ~20 mins). As Liane mentioned, Pirate's Cove is a great stop off -- if you've got a little more time, throw some sandwiches in your pack and have lunch there.
