Trailspotting Mt. Tamalpais

Overview: Mt. Tamalpais State Park is the perfect day-trip away from the bustle of San Francisco and once you're here it's hard to believe you're just a stone's throw away from the second biggest city on the West Coast.

The locals know this place simply as "Mt Tam" and they know it as a great place for hiking, mountain biking and all types of outdoor adventures.

Our guide explores a variety of hikes on the slopes of the North Bay's highest mountain, taking you from redwood groves and steep-sided valleys to dramatic coastal views and mountain peaks.

Tips:
• Busy roads and parking lots for the state park and neighboring Muir Moods can be avoided with an early start.
• If Pan Toll ranger station is full, you may find more parking at Bootjack which is also on our route.
• Coastal fog can reduce visibility, but frequently burns off during the day leading to the dramatic revealing of spectacular views.
• During the rainy season (November to May) some of the trails may be closed, so you might want to check at the ranger station before setting off.