Tomales Point
Sunday, Aug 3, 2014

DIFFICULTY:   Moderate/Strenuous

ELEVATION GAIN:  Total gain, with all ups and downs is 700 ft. The longest single climb is 250 feet.

HIKE DISTANCE:  9.5 miles (RT) to the end of Tomales Point.  Monique and David will likely not go to the end.  There is a vista for lunch about 3.5 miles from the trailhead.

GENERAL LOCATION:  Point Reyes National Seashore.  Trailhead is at the end of Pierce Point Road.

DESCRIPTION:  This open trail through the Tule Elk Reserve offers spectacular views of Tomales Bay, Bodega Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. It is also a prime wildlife viewing trail, as it is remote and the tule elk are enclosed in this reserve. The first 3 mi. to Lower Pierce Point Ranch are well marked and maintained, but the last stretch can be overgrown with bush lupine and other shrubs, so long pants and long sleeves are a good idea. The journey all the way to the Point is worth it, for the view is unparalleled. Fog and wind can limit visibility and make this hike more challenging - and eerie.   This hike will likely be a welcome respit from Lincoln summer heat.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: At least 3 hours each way. One way distance is about 140 miles. This is a $20 driver donation.  Detailed driving directions will be handed out to all drivers.  We plan to stop for dinner at Mary's Pizza Shack in Novato.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:  Dave Wood/Monique Wood

SPECIAL NOTES:

     FACILITIES AVAILABLE:  Restroom at the trail head.  Also, we will plan to stop at the Valejo rest stop on the way.

     PREPARATIONS FOR HIKE:           

  1. Bring a copy of your ID (driver's license), Health Card, and an emergency contact name and phone number with you when you hike.

  2. If you have any health issues, please consider your condition before hiking.If you have any health issues, please consider your condition before hiking.

  3. Always bring 2 pairs of shoes, along with a plastic bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.  DO NOT get your driver's car dirty by wearing your dirty boots on the drive home.

  4. Bring hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellant, water, lunch.

     RISKS:  Nothing serious.  Some of the walking is in loose sand, which requires extra effort.  The trail is mostly exposed, so wear sunscreen.

    WEATHER:  At this time of year the coast could be foggy.  So dress in appropriate layers for hot (sunny) or cold (foggy and windy).

QUESTIONS: Dave/Monique Wood 408-7562

MEETING TIME: 7:00 in the Orchard Creek Parking lot - leaving time is 7:15.

 

Some area photos

Driving Directions