At the northernmost reach of Point Reyes National Seashore, a narrow peninsula stretches into the Pacific. Wind moves freely across open grasslands, tule elk graze along rolling bluffs, and ocean views unfold on both sides of the trail. The peninsula, known as Tomales Point Headlands, features dramatic coastal bluffs, sandy trails and beaches shaped by weather, wildlife, and time.
Why Hike This Trail
Tomales Point Trail, a scenic and wildlife-rich hike in Northern California, leads to panoramic views of Tomales Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Along the path, hikers are blessed with seasonal wildflowers and frequent tule elk sightings. The ridgeline forms a continuous visual reward of dramatic cliffs met with crashing ocean waves. The grasslands create a sense of coastal remoteness, a way to escape the busyness of the every day world.
Park Information & History
Point Reyes National Seashore was established in 1962 to preserve coastal ecosystems, working ranch lands, and wildlife habitat along the Marin coastline. This National Seashore protects 71,055 acres of land, 32,730 of which is wilderness. There are 150 miles of hiking trails, granting the 2.3 million annual visitors an opportunity to enjoy forest, cliffs, grasslands and wildlife.
The Tomales Point area is home to a reintroduced herd of tule elk, once nearly extinct in California. The elk preserve was established in the late 1970s, and today the herd roams freely along this peninsula. Home to 490 species of birds, Point Reyes National Seashore has the largest and most diverse bird population of all other U.S. National Parks. Migrating gray whales pass the shore in January and February. Seals and sea lions congregate in the pocket beaches along the coast line.
Amenities & Important Details
- Vault restrooms near the McClure’s Beach parking area
- Limited cell service
- Water and food are not available in this area. Carry in water and snacks.
- Pets are not allowed on the trails, beaches or wilderness areas
- Entrance is free
Getting There & Trailhead Parking
- From San Francisco: ~62 miles (about 1.5 hours)
- From Napa Valley (Napa): ~65–70 miles (about 1.75 hours)
- From Sacramento: ~105 miles (about 1.25 hours)
Trailhead Address: Pierce Point Road, Inverness, CA 94937
Parking is free. Lots fill quickly on the weekends and during peak wildflower season.
The Tomales Point Trailhead parking lot holds approximately 20 vehicles.
The McClures Beach Trailhead parking lot is nearby, offering 25 spaces (plus vault restrooms).
From Seahaven, just north of Inverness, take Sir Francis Drake Boulevard into the park area. Turn left onto
Pierce Point Road, which becomes a narrow and winding route through ranch lands before reaching the trailhead.
Drive with care to reduce the chance of colliding with wildlife. Sadly, wildlife accidents occur daily in Marin county, therefore slowing car speed can help to change these statistics.
Route Description
The Tomales Point Trail is a 9.5-mile out-and-back hike following a coastal ridgeline north toward the tip of the peninsula.
The trail begins gradually, passing through open grassland with ocean views quickly emerging. As elevation gently increases, views expand across Tomales Bay to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is easy to follow due to markings and obvious dirt and sand path.
Along the route, near Windy Gap, the trail narrows slightly and rolling terrain becomes more pronounced. Tule elk are often visible grazing on the hillsides. The final stretch grows sandier and more rugged before reaching the windswept northern terminus.
An optional path to McClures Beach (near the trailhead) adds approximately 1 mile round trip, descending steeply to a secluded shoreline.
Explore the Historic Pierce Point Ranch, located near the trailhead. The Ranch was established in 1858 and became known for its butter. The Park Service took over the property in 1980. It now serves as a historic location for visitors. The farmhouse, however, is private housing for park staff.
Map & Details:
Tomales Point Trail Map — National Park Service
| Hike difficulty classifications (link) | |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Geographic location | Point Reyes National Seashore, CA |
| Trailhead parking options | Pierce Ranch and McClure’s Beach lots |
| Trail amenities | Vault restrooms at McClure’s Beach |
| Elevation – trailhead | 305′ |
| Elevation – highest peak | 541′ |
| Elevation gain | 1,207′ |
| Total mileage | 9.5 |
| Water sources | None; carry in water |
| Highlights | Ocean and bay views; dramatic coast line, tule elk, grasslands, sea birds |
Best Time
Tomales Point Trail is popular and can get crowded during summer tourist season. Since the trail is narrow in sections, hikers will need to pause to allow others to pass. To avoid crowds, start early in the morning or visit October through March.
- Spring & Summer: Wildflowers and lush hillsides
- Fall: Clear skies, warm days, peak elk rut
- Winter: Fewer visitors, migrating gray whales offshore, rainy season
Wildlife:
- Tule Elk: Year-round; most active August–October
- Gray Whales: Winter migration in the Pacific Ocean
- Humpback Whales: Summer feeding season
- Birds: Year-round
Safety Information
- Bring sufficient water; there is none on trail
- Wind exposure can be strong year-round
- Stay on the trail and away from cliff edges that can easily crumble
- Trail can be muddy in winter and is sandy near the northern end
- Stay a safe distance from elk, minimum 25 yards recommended
- Limited cell service; download maps in advance
Leave No Trace
- Stay on the trail to protect the fragile coastal ecosystems
- Do not take side “social paths”–paths created by those going off trail
- Do not approach wildlife for safety and respect of their habitat
- Carry out what you have carried in: tissues, food wrappers, etc.
- Take only photos and not natural souvenirs, such as flowers or elk horns
Additional Resources
- National Park Service — Point Reyes National Seashore
- National Park Service – Tomales Point Map
- National Park Service – Tule Elk
- Oceanic Society – Gray Whale Migration
