Mount Tamalpais State Park: A Bay Area Crown Jewel
Discover breathtaking views, redwood forests, and rich history at Mount Tamalpais State Park, a natural escape just north of San Francisco, offering hiking, camping, and stunning vistas.
Mount Tamalpais State Park, affectionately known as Mt. Tam, is a majestic natural escape rising from the heart of Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Its diverse landscape encompasses redwood forests, oak woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral, offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretch from the Farallon Islands to Mount Diablo. With over 60 miles of hiking trails connecting to a 200-mile network, it's a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. The park's rich history, from its significance to the Coastal Miwok Indians to its role in early recreation and conservation efforts, adds to its allure. Whether you're seeking challenging hikes, tranquil picnics, or simply stunning vistas, Mt. Tam promises an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bay Area. Don't miss the East Peak summit, accessible Verna Dunshee Trail, and the historic Mountain Theater.
A brief summary to Mount Tamalpais State Park
- 3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, California, 94941, US
- +1415-388-2070
- 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 and holidays, as parking lots fill up quickly. Consider carpooling or using public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly. Dress in layers, as it can be cool and foggy even on sunny days.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike. There are limited options for purchasing food and drinks within the park.
- Make reservations for Muir Woods National Monument in advance, as they are required for all vehicles and shuttle riders.
- Explore the Verna Dunshee Trail at East Peak for an accessible and rewarding experience with panoramic views.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Stinson Beach exit and follow Highway 1, then signs for Panoramic Highway up the mountain. Be aware that Panoramic Highway is a winding road. Parking is available at several locations, including East Peak, Pantoll, and Bootjack, for $8 per vehicle ($7 for seniors). Pantoll accepts credit cards during business hours; other lots are cash only or payable via QR code. Expect potential delays of 5-10 minutes on Panoramic Highway near the Mountain Home Inn due to ongoing construction (as of May 2025) involving single-lane traffic controlled by a temporary signal.
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Public Transport
Take Golden Gate Transit Route 61 from Sausalito to the Pantoll Ranger Station on weekends and holidays during the summer. Check the Marin Transit website for the current schedule. From the Pantoll Ranger Station, you can access various trails and destinations within the park. A one-way fare on Golden Gate Transit is approximately $3-$6, depending on the distance.
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Muir Woods Shuttle & Hiking
For visitors combining a trip to Muir Woods with a hike on Mt. Tam, consider the Muir Woods Shuttle. Take the shuttle from Marin City or Larkspur ($3.75 per adult, reservations required) to Muir Woods, then hike up to Mt. Tam via connecting trails like the Bootjack Trail. Note that a reservation for the Muir Woods shuttle is required, even for children under 16 (free). Also, remember that entrance to Muir Woods itself requires a separate reservation and fee ($15 for adults 16 and over).
Discover more about Mount Tamalpais State Park
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Tiburon Railroad & Ferry Depot Museum
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Strauss Statue
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Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point
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Angel Island Immigration Station
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Angel Island Immigration Museum
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Pershing Square
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Antioch Aired
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Livermore Wine Trolley
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Stinson Beach
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Muir Beach Overlook
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Mt Tamalpais
4.0 km
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Muir Beach
4.1 km
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Old Mill Park
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Bolinas Beach
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Miwok Trail
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Tennessee Valley Trailhead
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Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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Essential places to dine
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Franciscan Crab Restaurant
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
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State Bird Provisions
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
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Fior d'Italia
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Shop the City
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Foggy Notion
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The Golden Hour
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Current
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Nikoniko Gifts
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Lola of North Beach
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
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FRAME
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Frank's Fisherman
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Tony Nik's CAFE
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Gino & Carlo
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