Tomales Point Trail, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

Inverness, California

4.7/5

based on 20 reviews

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Details

Distance

9.47 miles

Elevation Gain

1165 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jake Young

Tomales Point is a moderate day hike with incredible seaside views, ending at the northern tip of Pt. Reyes. Along the trail, you'll have great opportunities to see tule elk.

This hike will take you through the Tule Elk Preserve in Point Reyes Nation Seashore, and offers fantastic views of Bodega and Tomales Bay, as well as the Pacific Ocean.

Start at the Tomales Point Trailhead near the Historic Pierce Point Ranch. Follow the trail for roughly three miles. This trail is very well maintained and you are almost guaranteed to see tule elk along the way.

After reaching Lower Pierce Point Ranch, the trail is not maintained and can be overgrown with bush lupine or other shrubs. From here, it is about 1.7 miles to the point. The trail should still be relatively easy to follow, but if you find yourself off-trail, just keep walking towards the end of the peninsula. The end of the peninsula, Tomales Bluff, is a great place to have a picnic.

There are many sensitive elk habitats along the way, so it is always a good idea to stay on trail. Throughout the hike, it is not uncommon to see many different types of wildlife, so make sure to leave no trace in their natural environment.

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Hiking

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Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Reviews

Anca Apostoaei

Tomales Point Trail, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

04/09/17

A really nice hike with plenty to see, don't forget to dress properly as it can be pretty windy. After the rain that we had everything is in bloom, flowers everywhere, lots of birds and the elks are curious but try not to approach them as they'll run away. Don't forget to bring your camera as there's a lot to take photos of.

5.0

Chase Dekker

Tomales Point Trail, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

02/03/17

Did this hike a couple weeks ago and really enjoyed it! We did not make it all the way to the end, but enjoyed the wide open views of the ocean. We passed by many elk and also saw a coyote in the distance. Definitely recommend this hike to anyone visiting Point Reyes. Do go with a group as a mountain lion has been living out in this area.

5.0

Explorer

Jake Young

Explorer

Tomales Point Trail, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

11/01/16

Wanna see elk munching on grass with an ocean view? This is the place for you. Although the hike is on the longer side for a day hike, the scenery and wildlife make it worth it. I recommend bring a picnic and some beer to celebrate at the "end of the world"

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Tomales Point Trail, Pt. Reyes National Seashore

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McClures Beach

Kayak Tomales Bay

Abbotts Lagoon Trail

Photograph the Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes

Kayak Camping in Point Reyes

Hike the Estero Trail

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