Overview: Mount Tamalpais State Park is the center of the Bay Area's outdoor universe.

The peak rising northwest of Sausalito in Marin County attracts hikers, bikers, equestrians, trail runners and other outdoor enthusiasts from throughout Northern California. While other parks in the region have golden hills, redwood forests, springtime wildflower displays and spectacular vistas, Mount Tam has all of them in one location.

The park's popularity makes solitude a bit scarce, but its amenities and natural charms manage to win people over anyway.

Tips: What to bring:
Layers: weather can change rapidly.
Sunscreen for the unforested areas.
Hiking supplies (gear, water, food) if you're hitting the trails
Binoculars
Camera
Map

Mount Tam gets busy on the weekends; beat the crowds by going during the week. Poison oak is common near narrow trails. Bushwacking is not advised. Watch for road bikers on the Panoramic Highway and mountain bikers on the old railroad beds.

Steep Ravine Trail

One of the loveliest stretches of trail in the Bay Area, the path runs along a creek for 1.7 miles after starting out from the Pantoll trail head. Tumbling water is about all you can hear as you dive deep into a redwood forest; note there's a ladder about halfway down that requires careful footwork.

West Point Inn

The rustic lodge, maintained by volunteers, has no electricity, and visitors bring their own food, beverages and bedding. Many visitors prefer to hike or bike to the lodge, though it's not absolutely required. Pancake breakfasts on Mother's Day, Father's Day and holidays are local favorites (though they can attract big crowds). See http://www.westpointinn.com for full details; call 415-388-9955 to find out where to park.