An excellent trail system with wonderful views every where you look. A terrific assortment of long and short trails with something for everyone (short walks to and along the beach to 10 miles of exposed ride trails). A must for anyone looking to get away from the metro area for a day or hopefully more.
Easy hike to Arch Rock if you have children that also love the outdoors. 4.1 miles one way. Theirs a meadow halfway with restrooms, water and picnic benches. Enjoy :)
My sister and I hiked the Bear Valley Trail, a 9+ mile trail through lovely woods, ending at the spectacular Arch Rock. It is not a difficult hike (no significant elevation changes). It is popular trail, but we often hiked without seeing many other people. The area has many other trails to suit almost any hiking ability. Lovely place.
The trails lead you to lovely little sighting areas. From one you could perhaps see seals, different kinds of birds, deer. And if you are particularly lucky, you might even see whales. The terrain is very different, almost like you might find in Scotland. Definitely worth the hike
First, beware, it may be foggy and wet so try to monitor the weather and come here when it's clear. Visit the information desk at Bear Valley first for maps and updated trail information. I spent two days hiking along Drake's Beach, viewed the elephant seals and went out to the Chimney Rock lookout point; then walked South and North beaches, the 10 mile roundtrip to Tomales Point and ending with an hour or so walk along McClure's beach. Along the Tomales trail you're sure to spot elk herds. Some elk might even come right up beside you on the trail. On weekends docents are there to help with the identification. During the whale watching season you'll be forced to ride a bus shuttle to many of the main spots. But the trail to Limantour Spit should be accessible. Other good hikes are to Mt. Wittenberg, Abbott's Lagoon, the Estero trail, and Bolinas Ridge.
Bird watching. Beaches. Scenery. Few people even at the Lighthouse. Trails round the Bear Valley Visitor Centre
We've hiked the trail leading to arch rock a couple of times now. The second time we decided to take our bikes - FUN! It is a long trail, about 4 miles one-way to arch rock which is at the beach. If you decide to bike the trail leading to arch rock, there is a bike rack less than a mile from arch rock to secure your bike. There are plenty of trees to keep the trail cool but bring plenty of water and a snack to munch on when you get to the beach. It is a rocky downhill descent to the the beach so be cautious. And this is NOT a swimming beach. I would not recommend it for safety reasons - stick to walking along it and exploring the rocky areas. If you don't want to go all the way down, you can stay at the top and enjoy the views. It's beautiful!
This is an amazing, picturesque trail. Not to be missed. It ends an overlook of Drake's Bay. One of the nicest trails in the park.
Beautiful and expansive -- and a fairly easy hike. The parking lot was full but the trail never felt crowded. Lots of alone time. The male elk are impressive. As is the coast. Really spectacular. What a joyful day!
Trails are well used and popular. Trails well marked and scenic and easy walking. The park can be seen nicely from inside a car, but to really enjoy the trails are a must.