Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,777.00 ft (541.63 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
7.72 mi (12.42 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

If you have been in the market for a challenging, little-known hike in Marin County, look no further. With 1,700 feet of elevation gain in less than 2 miles and another 6 miles of constant gain and loss, this semi-secret ravine hike will test your legs and your love of heights.

The hike begins at the entrance to a long-abandoned gated community. The first mile is a deceptively easy jaunt to a waterfall nestled in the woods. Take a moment to enjoy this charming grotto, and then follow a small dirt trail above the waterfall. You will be following this canyon trail all the way to the top, scrambling up dirt hillsides and through small sections of forest. Be aware of poison oak, as it has the nasty habit of growing up over the top of the trail. With about a quarter mile to the top, the trail becomes very steep. You will need to use your hands in some sections. Be sure to stop and look behind for the improving views of Marin and beyond.

Once you reach the top and enjoy the spectacular views, you have a few options to get back down. You can head down the way you came up if you enjoy pain. If you head north, there is a fire road that brings you right down to the entrance, though it is on private property and normally closed. Continuing southeast on the ridge brings 4 more miles of expansive views and constant elevation changes. Keep following this fire road to the left until you reach the Halloween Trail, a singletrack that will finally lead back into the canyon. Once you hit the paved road, take a right and two lefts, and then follow the main road for about a mile back to your car.

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

360-degree views. Challenging hike. Little-known trail.

Cons

Exposed. Extremely steep. No easy way down.

Trailhead Elevation

190.00 ft (57.91 m)

Features

Waterfalls
Big vistas

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore

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