5 Beautiful Point Reyes Hiking Trails near Olema House
Northern California is full of grand, rugged scenery. There are rolling vineyard hills, ancient forests, and ocean cliffs. The Point Reyes National Seashore, in particular, is an incredible destination for hiking enthusiasts. The Point Reyes trails span 150 miles, so you can spend endless hours exploring all the beauty California has to offer. The Point Reyes hiking trails will take you through the forest near Olema House, along the seaside cliffs, and down to the sandy beaches. These are the five must-do treks, listed by length.
Top 5 Point Reyes Hiking Areas
With 150 miles of Point Reyes hiking, it can be impossible to choose just one or two trails. Take it from us! These five will give you a diverse sample of the best Point Reyes scenery. We included a variety of lengths, from a half-mile to 13 miles.
Earthquake Trail (0.6 miles)
This wooded, shady trail is short and sweet, with interpretive signs about the San Andreas Fault and local geology. It’s only three minutes from Olema House, so it’s a convenient and refreshing way to start your morning. Enjoy a jog or brisk walk as the sun rises overhead. Then, grab a piping hot drink from the Due West Market coffee bar.
Chimney Rock Trailhead (1.6 miles)
Chimney Rock is perhaps the most scenic Point Reyes hiking trail. It runs to the very tip of the Point Reyes cape. It’s surrounded by water on both sides. You’ll see crashing ocean waves and the calm, sapphire bay. Be sure to visit the Point Reyes lighthouse and the Leaning Tree as long as you’re in the area.
Tomales Point Trail (2 miles)
At the northernmost corner of the Point Reyes National Seashore is Tomales Point. It has the best wildlife viewing near Point Reyes. You can visit a decommissioned ranch to learn about the dairy and cattle industry in Northern California. Keep your eyes out for tule elk, for the Tomales Point Trail runs through an elk reserve.
Laguna-Coast Loop (5 miles)
Two trailheads—Laguna and Coast—meet in the middle to form a breathtaking five-mile loop. You’ll dive down Limantour Spit Road, begin at the Laguna Trailhead, and finish at the Coast Trail Trailhead—less than half a mile up the road. The hike itself features gorgeous, grassy bluffs and beach access. It takes you near Limantour Beach, which is one of our favorite adventure destinations along the coast.
Woodward Valley Loop (13 miles)
At 13 miles long, the Woodward Valley Loop is the most time consuming of the Point Reyes trails on this list. However, it’s more than worth your time. It starts at the Bear Valley Trailhead. Then you choose between the Mt. Wittenberg and Meadow Trails. Each option will lead you to the Sky Trail, which will lead you to the Woodward Valley Trail. You’ll finish this Point Reyes hiking loop by following the Coast Trail back to the Bear Valley Trail. Along this long and meandering route, you’ll enjoy various peaks and valleys, as well as access to Sculptured Beach and Kelham Beach.
Unbeatable Hikes and Point Reyes Lodging
Olema House is located in the middle of the National Seashore, so you can enjoy a short commute to all of the best hikes Point Reyes has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll through the woods, an educational experience, or hours of exercise, our slice of paradise has something for you. Rest up after a day of activity in our luxurious lodge rooms and cottages at Point Reyes. Contact us today to plan your scenic retreat!