Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Hiking
5.0
(9)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Phillip Burton Wilderness
Point Reyes National Seashore
Tips
June 29, 2017
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Mount Wittenberg Trail

4.2
(5)
45
hikers
20.7km
06:02
520m
520m
The Woodward Valley Loop offers a captivating journey through Point Reyes National Seashore, transitioning from lush forested highlands to spectacular coastal vistas. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from relatively flat sections winding through buckeyes and Douglas firs to strenuous ascents on trails like Mount Wittenberg. Keep an eye out for the Point Resistance arches view and the beautiful Sculptured Beach, which might reveal a rock tunnel at low tide. Meadows alive with wildflowers, dragonflies, and bees add to the vibrant scenery, making this a truly immersive experience.
Planning your visit requires preparation for a long day on the trail. This difficult 12.9-mile (20.7 km) hike, with 1715 feet (523 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 6 hours and 2 minutes. An early start is advisable to make the most of daylight and mitigate high UV exposure in open coastal areas. While specific parking information isn't detailed, trailhead parking is available within Point Reyes National Seashore, so plan accordingly for a full day's adventure.
What sets the Woodward Valley Loop apart is its ability to deliver a "grand slam" of Point Reyes' ecosystems, moving from deep forests to expansive tidepools. The route provides a unique perspective on ecological resilience, passing through areas recovering from the 2020 Woodward Fire, where green vegetation has largely returned. Wildlife spotting opportunities abound, with deer, birds, and even bobcats possible, making it a rich experience for nature enthusiasts.

5.0
(1)
24
hikers
12.4km
03:46
430m
430m
Hike the moderate 7.7-mile Mount Wittenberg Loop in Point Reyes National Seashore, gaining 1,423 feet through varied forests and meadows.

5.0
(1)
25
hikers
8.86km
02:52
390m
390m
Moderate 5.5-mile hike in Point Reyes National Seashore, offering diverse landscapes, forest, meadows, and potential ocean views.
Details
Informations
Distance 2.99 km
Uphill 350 m
Downhill 0 m
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Friday 3 July
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