Highlight • Viewpoint
Coast Trail Abalone Point
Hiking
5.0
(14)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Phillip Burton Wilderness
Tips
August 24, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Coast Trail Abalone Point
49
hikers
9.12km
02:41
240m
300m
You can hike to Alamere Falls via the Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead, a moderate route covering 5.7 miles (9.1 km) with an elevation gain of 787 feet (240 metres). This journey typically takes about 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will experience diverse scenery, transitioning from open coastal scrub with continuous ocean views to shaded eucalyptus groves. The trail also leads you past scenic lakes such as Bass Lake and Pelican Lake, offering peaceful spots along the way. Your destination is Alamere Falls, a unique waterfall that cascades directly onto Wildcat Beach, providing a memorable coastal experience.
When planning your visit, be aware that the final 1.2 miles of Mesa Road to the Palomarin Trailhead is unpaved and often has potholes, so drive with care. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. It is also crucial to check tide charts before you go; high tide can make reaching the base of Alamere Falls unsafe or impossible. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have ample time.
This trail is notable for leading to one of California's rare 'tidefalls', where fresh water plunges directly onto the beach. The route takes you through the Phillip Burton Wilderness, offering a chance to observe the natural coastal environment. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Farallon Islands from various points along the path. This unique combination of coastal views, serene lakes, and a dramatic waterfall makes the hike a distinctive experience in the region.
2
hikers
24.4km
07:14
770m
680m
Prepare for a challenging hike on the Coast Trail and Lake Ranch Trail Loop, a difficult route covering 15.1 miles (24.4 km) with an elevation gain of 2538 feet (773 metres). This extensive loop typically takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You will begin with expansive ocean views from bluffs along the Coast Trail, then transition inland through diverse landscapes. Expect to pass several freshwater lakes, including Bass Lake and Pelican Lake View, before the scenery shifts dramatically to fir forests and coastal scrub on the Lake Ranch Trail.
When planning your visit, be aware that parking at the Palomarin trailhead can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so an early start is highly recommended. This trail is not suitable for young children due to its length and demanding nature. You should also be prepared for potential hazards like stinging nettle, ticks, and poison oak, particularly in overgrown sections; wearing long pants can offer good protection.
This loop offers a rewarding experience for experienced hikers seeking varied terrain within the Phillip Burton Wilderness. The trail's environment changes from coastal bluffs to dense forests, providing a unique blend of natural beauty. Be ready for sections that can be overgrown with tall grasses and brambles, which adds to the wild, untamed feel of the route, especially during summer months.
3.0
(1)
2
hikers
19.9km
05:52
570m
560m
Hike the difficult 12.4-mile Coast, Lake Ranch and Ridge Trail Loop in Point Reyes, offering diverse coastal and forest scenery.
Details
Informations
Elevation 70 m
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