Tennessee Valley Trailhead: Gateway to Marin Headlands' Natural Beauty
Discover the natural beauty of Marin Headlands at Tennessee Valley Trailhead: Hike to Tennessee Beach, explore scenic trails, and witness coastal wildlife just north of San Francisco.
Nestled in Mill Valley, California, the Tennessee Valley Trailhead provides access to a stunning array of hiking trails within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This easily accessible trailhead leads to Tennessee Beach and offers panoramic views of the Marin Headlands. The main trail is a gentle, mostly flat path suitable for families and casual hikers, while more adventurous routes wind through the surrounding hills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, birds of prey, and a variety of plant species that thrive in this coastal environment. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and diverse recreational opportunities, Tennessee Valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the San Francisco Bay Area.
A brief summary to Tennessee Valley Trailhead
- 591 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, California, 94941, US
- +1415-331-1540
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills up quickly. Overflow parking is available along Tennessee Valley Road.
- Check the tide charts before visiting to see the shipwreck of the SS Tennessee at low tide.
- Bring layers, as the weather can change rapidly, with sunny days turning foggy and cold.
- Dogs are not allowed on the main Tennessee Valley Trail, but are permitted on the Miwok Trail and Coastal Trail (where it crosses the valley).
- Pack water and snacks, as there is no potable water available in Tennessee Valley.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Stinson Beach/Mill Valley exit and follow Shoreline Highway (U.S. 1) west. Turn left onto Tennessee Valley Road. Follow Tennessee Valley Road for approximately 1.5 miles to the trailhead parking lot. Be aware that the speed limit on Tennessee Valley Road is strictly enforced. Parking is free, but the lot fills up quickly on weekends; arrive early or be prepared to park along the road.
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Public Transport
Take Golden Gate Transit bus routes 117 or 17X to the intersection of Shoreline Highway and Tennessee Valley Road. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute (1.5 mile) walk along Tennessee Valley Road to the trailhead. Check the Golden Gate Transit website for current schedules and fares. A single ride on Golden Gate Transit costs around $4 - $7 depending on the distance.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) from Mill Valley or a nearby location to the Tennessee Valley Trailhead. Be aware that cell service can be unreliable at the trailhead, making it difficult to arrange a return trip. A ride-share from Mill Valley will cost approximately $15 - $25.
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