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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
309 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Tomales Point Trail, Marin County

Panorama on Tomales Point hike in North Bay of San Francisco, California
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Tomales Point hike is located in the Point Reyes National Seashore, sandwiched between Tomales Bay and the Pacific Ocean. This hike is a unique experience with it being a Tule Elk Preserve and often quite foggy. When not foggy, the views are great, with the views from Tomales Point itself spectacular!

Route Description for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County

The hike to Tomales Point is one of the easier trails to follow. From the parking lot at the Tomales Point Trailhead, walk to the left of the historic Pierce Point Ranch, which offers a glimpse into the early dairy ranching days on the Peninsula.

Continue straight, in a general northern direction, on the same trail for 7.6 km until the trail dead ends at Tomales Point. This can be more challenging in the fog, which is notorious around Tomales Point.

There is lots of scenery to take in during this hike, Duck Beach, Sand Point, Tom’s Point and views of Bird Rock. This trail consists entirely within a tule elk preserve and there is a good chance that you will spot a few elk grazing!

As you get closer to Tomales Point there will be multiple paths around bushes and a few places where people go off trail to get a better view, keep right and stay on trail for the duration of your hike!

After enjoying the views at Tomales Point, turn around and walk back the 7.6 km to Pierce Point Ranch.

Insider Hints for Tomales Point Trail, Marin County

  • We like to make a trip down to McClure’s Beach, a short 1312ft jaunt from Pierce Point Ranch. You can drive down and park there if you’re tired. McClure’s Beach offers wonderful views, and if you brought a picnic is a great place to relax after a wonderful hike.
  • Layered clothing & rain jacket for the foggy mornings.
  • There is no food options within close to 20.0mi so pack in snacks and water for the hike before heading to the trailhead.
  • Cafe Reyes is a great place to stock up on snack, grab a lunch to go or pick up water ( 11101 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956).

Getting to the Tomales Point Trail, Marin County Trailhead

Head for the Tomales Point Trailhead, which is at Pierce Point Ranch. From Point Reyes Station, take Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and go right at the split onto Pierce Point Road. Park at the parking lot in front of Pierce Point Ranch.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    Year round

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    At nearby McClures Beach Trailhead

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Tomales Point Trail, Marin County Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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