The best walks and hikes around Stinson Beach

Parking near Stinson Beach trailheads is extremely limited and fills up quickly, particularly on weekends. The main beach parking lot is the largest option, but you should plan to arrive very early to secure a spot. For trails like the Dipsea, there are small roadside pullouts, but these are also in high demand.

Many trails within Mount Tamalpais State Park, such as the Steep Ravine and Matt Davis trails, do not permit dogs to protect local wildlife. However, some trails in the broader area are more accommodating. The trail to Cataract Falls is a popular choice for hikers with dogs on leash. Always check the specific park regulations for your intended route before you go.

Yes, the region is well-regarded for its waterfall hikes, which are most impressive during the winter and spring rainy season. The hike to Cataract Falls is a local favorite, featuring a series of scenic cascades through a lush forest. Be prepared for a moderate hike with some stairs and rocky sections.

For a gentle and accessible outing, a walk along the nearly three-mile stretch of Stinson Beach itself is a perfect choice for families. For a more traditional trail experience with younger children, you could hike a short, manageable section of the famous Steep Ravine Trail to experience the redwoods and creek without committing to a long loop.

Absolutely. For a significant challenge, consider the Steep Ravine Trail – Mount Tamalpais — East Peak loop. This strenuous 15.6-mile (25.1 km) trek involves a major ascent of over 3,100 feet (950 m) to the summit, rewarding you with panoramic views from the Farallon Islands to the Sierra Nevada on a clear day.

The Steep Ravine Trail is famous for its dramatic canyon scenery. The path follows Webb Creek through a dense forest of redwoods and ferns, creating a cool, shaded environment. A memorable feature for many hikers is the wooden ladder used to navigate a steep section of the trail alongside the creek.

The trails around Stinson Beach offer a fantastic mix of scenery. You'll find everything from intimate, forested canyons filled with redwoods to wide-open coastal hillsides. For some of the best ocean views, the Willow Camp Fire Road Trail to Davis Trail loop provides expansive vistas of the coastline, Bolinas, and the Pacific Ocean as you descend.

While there are connecting trails, hiking from Stinson Beach to Muir Woods National Monument is a very long and strenuous journey not typically done as a round trip in one day. Driving is the most practical option. Be aware that Muir Woods requires advance reservations for both parking and shuttle access, so you must book your visit online ahead of time.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible diversity of the landscape, where you can experience lush redwood canyons and exposed coastal trails with stunning ocean views all in a single hike. The well-maintained trail network is also a common highlight.

Yes, loop hikes are very popular here. A classic option is the Stairs on the Dipsea Trail – TCC Trail loop. This moderate 9.5-mile (15.2 km) route combines sections of the iconic Dipsea Trail with other paths in the Mount Tamalpais foothills, offering a varied experience with significant elevation gain.

There are over a dozen curated hiking routes available in this guide, ranging from easy coastal walks to difficult mountain ascents. The interconnected trail system within Mount Tamalpais State Park and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area means there are countless variations to explore.