Mount Tamalpais State Park Inn-to-Inn Hiking

Your adventure begins near the iconic Ghirardelli Square, a historic landmark replete with exquisite dining and unique shopping experiences. As you wander, the aroma of rich chocolate from the famed Ghirardelli Chocolate Company fills the air, inviting you to indulge in a sweet treat. Just a stone’s throw away, Fisherman’s Wharf awaits, offering a plethora of seafood restaurants where you can savor the freshest catch.

Today’s journey leads you from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the serene beauty of Sausalito, traversing the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. This trek offers unparalleled views of the city skyline, the vastness of the Bay, and the enchanting Alcatraz and Angel Islands. The path unfolds along the San Francisco waterfront, a narrative of natural beauty and architectural marvels. Upon reaching Sausalito, a historic seaside village, you’ll find yourself in a picturesque setting of waterfront restaurants and art galleries.

Ascend the hidden stairways of Sausalito, with each step unveiling the unique California-inspired architecture of hillside homes. Your hike progresses into the Marin Headlands, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a haven of biodiversity and wildflowers in spring. The trail rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the tranquility of Angel and Alcatraz Islands, and the distant San Francisco skyline. Conclude your day at Muir Beach, a cozy village where sandy shores invite you to unwind.

Leaving the cozy Muir Beach, you’ll take the Redwood Creek Trail and soon switch to Coast View Trail as you head deeper into Mount Tamalpais State Park. The path ascends the rolling hills, serving you with some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean you’ll ever witness. Upon reaching Cardiac Hill, the trail begins descending through the woods toward Stinson Beach, a popular seaside resort with one of the best beaches in Northern California.

The day begins with a significant climb toward Trojan Point, where you’ll enjoy some magnificent views before descending into the Muir Woods National Monument, where you have two options: either take the paved Fern Creek Trail through the heart of Cathedral Grove or follow the wilder and narrower Dipsea Trail. Both lead to Mill Valley, with one last climb before the end offering you some stunning town views before settling into your hotel, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

Today is optional, as you can just stay in the valley and enjoy some leisure time or take a slightly less demanding hike. However, if you feel up to the challenge, you won’t regret ascending the panoramic eastern summit of Mount Tamalpais, the highest point of the state park. The climb is significant and challenging but rewards you with once-in-a-lifetime views and beautiful scenery of redwood and oak trees shading your path.

Your journey concludes in the tranquil town of Mill Valley, nestled at the foot of Mount Tamalpais. Take the morning to explore its vibrant arts scene, cozy cafes, and boutique shops, each offering a slice of local life. Mill Valley’s unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty provides a fitting end to your adventure, leaving you with memories of breathtaking landscapes, urban explorations, and the serene simplicity of life by the Pacific.