Dipsea Trail
Mill Valley, California
Details
Distance
13.03 miles
Elevation Gain
3701 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by The Outbound Collective
You may not be able to enter the famous Dipsea race, but you can still enjoy the trail at your own pace. Feel good knowing you're actually doing the "Double Dipsea" if you hike out-and-back. There is a Shuttle that will take you back to Mill Valley from Stinson if you're too tired to hike all the way back.
The Dipsea Race is the 2nd oldest foot race in the US. The race is named after the Dipsea Inn at the end of the trail at Stinson Beach. The good news is that you can enjoy this scenic trail and its sweeping ocean views at your leisure. The bad news is that the race is only one-way. If you choose, your leg can be out-and-back for a total of 15 miles. Ok, so maybe you don't have to do the full 15. A Shuttle, which picks up at Stinson Beach, can you back to either Muir Woods or Mill Valley.
Starting from Old Mill Park in Mill Valley, you'll head onto Cascade Way, hanging a right on Millside Ln, which connects with the Dipsea Trail. At this point, it's straight on the Dipsea until you reach your 7.5-mile destination at Stinson Beach. Along the trail, you'll come across multiple terrains from Redwood canopies to exposed hillsides with stunning views of the Pacific
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Reviews
Everything from the shaded descent, to the open hills, the verdurous seaside stairs and then the beach. We started from the trailhead at Panoramic Highway, and followed signs for Dipsea trail for approximately six miles, and after resting at Stinson beach we retraced our steps back up.
5.0
The double dipsea is worth it! Views, redwoods, and elevation. The Lunch Box break in Stinson is great. Feeling of accomplishment when you hit that last step at the end...
5.0
Love the Dipsea Trail! The beginning sucks with three different sets of stairs.. :) Once your lungs recover from those it's a beautiful hike. The best part is when you finish at Stinson Beach you can grab a delicious lunch and a beer at one of Stinsons many eateries. When you are finished there take the $2 shuttle back to your car.
4.0
Tourist Club closed to non-members sometime last year - bummer! But Parkside Cafe in Stinson is a great place to refuel as well. They have an actual restaurant/cafe, but also a snack window. NB: The shuttle back to Mill Valley is on the smaller side and can get crowded on nice days.
The double dipsea is what convinced me to moved back to the Bay Area. You pass through so many ecosystems and fauna that it's a truly rewarding day.
5.0
This hike is a great workout and Cardiac Hill is a butt kicker. It's great to chill out in Mill Valley post-hike too.
5.0
Going out-and-back can be a real trip. Make sure to bring plenty of water. You can also stop at The Lunch Box in Stinson to grab a sandwich and to catch your breath before heading back.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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