Trail Map of Coast View Trail Loop, Mt Tamalpais State Park

Moderate: 8.5 miles, Full day

Overview: Experience many of Mt. Tamalpais' best features on a single loop trail, from chaparral grasslands and dramatic Pacific Ocean views to forest creeks and huge redwoods. Plus the added chance to stop off for a swift pint at an old British pub nearby.

Our guide features three different options. The longest options are the 8½ mile and 12½ mile hikes, both of which follow the numerical sequence of the guide and both begin and end at Pan Toll Ranger Station. The shortest option is a 5 mile Dias Ridge Loop also has the additional advantage of beginning and ending at the Pelican Inn.

Elevation gain:
• 1,600ft (from 100 - 1,500 ft)

Tips:
• The majority of this hike is in exposed surroundings, so sunscreen and appropriate clothing is recommended.
• Fee payable for parking at the state park’s Pan Toll ranger station.
• If the weather is foggy consider taking a clockwise route on the Coast View Trail and hike through the redwood forest on your way downhill, that way the fog is more likely to have burned off in time for you to enjoy the sights from the Coast View Trail on the return leg.
• Pelican Inn parking is intended for patrons. If you’re considering tackling just the Dias it might be prudent to look at parking down the road at the Muir Beach parking lot.

Alternate Routes:
• 5 mile Dias Ridge Loop (Moderate, half day, 800ft gain)
• 12½ mile Coast View & Dias Ridge (Moderate, full day, 2400ft gain)