Mount Tamalpais State Park Inn-to-Inn Hiking

7 days / 6 nights

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Embark on a captivating journey from the heart of San Francisco to its serene coastal outskirts, complete with cozy accommodations and gourmet experiences.

Starting point

San Francisco

Finish point

Mill Valley

Season

March - November

Technical level

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Inn-to-Inn

Embark on a captivating journey from the heart of San Francisco to its serene coastal outskirts, complete with cozy accommodations and gourmet experiences.

Choose your style

Self-guided from 1.990 €/person

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Embark on a captivating journey from the heart of San Francisco to its serene coastal outskirts, complete with cozy accommodations and gourmet experiences.

Starting point

San Francisco

Finish point

Mill Valley

Season

March - November

Technical level

3/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Inn-to-Inn

Unveil the heart of San Francisco, from the Ghirardelli Square to the Fisherman’s Wharf
Traverse the iconic Golden Gate Bridge on foot
Journey through the wildflower-sprinkled Marin Headlands
Wander amidst the ancient redwoods of Muir Woods
Challenge yourself with an ascent of Mount Tamalpais
Indulge in coastal luxury, with each town offering a haven of fine dining and sumptuous accommodations

Itinerary of the trip

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.

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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.

Hiking

8.6 miles and 500 feet of elevation gain/loss

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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.

Hiking

8 miles and 2140 feet of elevation gain / 1800 feet of elevation loss

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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.

Hiking

8.5 miles and 1600 feet of elevation gain/loss

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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.

Hiking

10 miles and 2350 feet of elevation gain / 2250 feet of elevation gain

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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.

Hiking

9 miles and 2700 feet of elevation gain/loss

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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.

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

6 nights in local 3-star boutique hotels or B&Bs with breakfast

Digital guidebook with itinerary, route instructions, and practical information

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your hike

NOT INCLUDED

Dinners in restaurants

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Airport transfer

Luggage transfer

Single supplement

What to bring to the tour

Hiking shoes/boots
25 to 35-liter backpack
Base layer
Sports T-shirts
Hiking shorts
Hiking water-repellent pants
Waterproof jacket
Midlayer
Sports socks and underwear
Leisurewear for evenings

Shade hat/cap
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hiking poles
ID card or passport
Snacks
Cash
Water bottles or hydration pack
Toiletries

Embark on a captivating journey that blends the serenity of coastal trails with San Francisco's urban charm. This meticulously curated adventure takes you from the vibrant city across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and along the picturesque towns, introducing you to the tranquil Pacific world beyond.

Starting with a languid exploration of San Francisco's famed waterfront, including Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf, you'll immerse in the city's vibrant culture before transitioning to the more rugged landscapes of the Marin Headlands.

The path from Sausalito to Muir Beach unveils hidden stairways and architectural marvels, leading you through the wildflower-dotted Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Your journey culminates with an optional ascent of Mount Tamalpais.

Understanding the essence of travel is to journey without burdens. We ensure your luggage is transferred seamlessly between destinations.

Accommodations are carefully selected to offer comfort and luxury at the end of each day. Nestled in the most scenic coastal towns, our partner inns and hotels are experiences in themselves, promising fine dining and unparalleled hospitality.

To enhance your journey, we equip you with GPS navigation and a personalized travel booklet, ensuring you're well-guided through each step of your adventure. Moreover, our customer support is always ready to assist with any arising needs.

This tour is an invitation to explore, relax, and rejuvenate, experiencing the best of Northern California's diverse landscapes and the comfort of its coastal hospitality.

Map

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hut-to-hut hiking allows you to trek from one fully serviced hut to another, traversing wilderness areas without the burden of heavy camping gear. Each hut provides a warm meal and a bed, ensuring comfort amidst the adventure.

Inn-to-inn hiking connects more populated areas, featuring stays in hotels or B&Bs for a less physically demanding journey. It’s ideal for those who prefer scenic walks with the comfort of modern amenities at day’s end.

Our Northern California treks are beginner-friendly, offering comfortable inn-to-inn hikes through scenic landscapes. However, hikes in the White Mountains, Rogue River Canyon, and Yosemite involve more challenging wilderness trails suited for experienced hikers due to their rugged and remote nature.

All our hikes include meals at the start and end of each day, whether you’re staying in huts or hotels/B&Bs. This ensures you start your day energized and end it with a satisfying meal without needing to carry food supplies.

We equip you with a detailed, personalized travel booklet containing all the necessary information for a safe journey, alongside recommendations to enhance your experience. GPS navigation and a user-friendly navigation app are also provided to guide you along your chosen route.

Yes, our self-guided tours are designed for solo adventurers and groups. Enjoy the freedom of hiking at your own pace, supported by our comprehensive guidance and 24/7 assistance.

Luggage transfers are available on our inn-to-inn hikes, where your belongings are transported by vehicle to your next accommodation. However, due to the remote locations of the huts, accessible only by foot, luggage transfer is not feasible for hut-to-hut hikes.

Most huts operate seasonally, typically open during the summer, the ideal time for high mountain hikes. Our Northern California hikes, however, are accessible in spring and fall, offering a wider window for your adventures.