Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

Stinson Beach, California

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Details

Distance

6 miles

Elevation Gain

2231 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Julien Bacal

Hike from the sea level to the top of Mount Tamalpais to catch amazing view on the Pacific, Bolinas and Point Reyes. This is a perfect hike to do when the weather is foggy, you can then cross the clouds and enjoy a sunny day at the top of Mount Tam.

This hike is an alternative to the famous Matt Davis to Steep Ravine Loop. The hike starts at Stinson Beach, just behind the fire Station. I recommend parking at the Beach parking lot. The Matt Davis trail is one of the best constructed trails I have ever seen.

After 2.2 miles, turn left on the Coastal Trail. You can then enjoy amazing views on the north of Point Reyes. On a sunny day, there is almost no shade, so don't forget Sunscreen and a hat!

The trail continues for another 2 miles, until you reach the Willow Camp Fire Road. You can then continue a bit further on the Coastal Trail or take Willow Camp Fire Road to come back to the parking lot, but be careful, this part of the hike is pretty steep. Once Willow Camp Fire Road meets Ave Farralone, turn onto Farralone and take it until you reach Belvedere Ave. Take Belvedere Ave to Laurel Ave, and then Laurel Ave to Buena Vista Ave, which will take you back to the trailhead.

Mt. Tamalpais State Park Map: http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/471/files/mttamfinalweblayout121214.pdf

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Reviews

Explorer

Rachel Davidson

Explorer

Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

12/27/16

This is a great trail run that will surprise your legs with how much 1800 ft of elevation gain can really hurt. Four stars because it's all single-track trail and very crowded, so passing people can become a hassle.

4.0

Ashley Chang

Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

01/02/16

Great hike for only a short drive away from SF! Try to get there in the morning and you'll end up at the beach for lunch! It's beautiful both ways, but make sure to bring food and water as it's uphill coming back!

5.0

Explorer

Josiah Roe

Explorer

Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

11/20/15

Rain, fog or shine, this loop is a great way to experience the diversity of ecological zones as you move from sea level to 1,500' above the ocean, and cross in and out of drainage areas in each. The views of Stinson Beach, Point Reyes and North Coast are breathtaking. It also makes for a killer trail run, with a ton of elevation gain and a mildly technical downhill to bomb on the Fire Road.

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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Matt Davis-Coastal Trail Loop

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Matt Davis-Steep Ravine Loop

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