Description
Bear Valley Trail is the most traveled trail at Point Reyes' most popular trailhead, and hiking on this path can sometimes feel like you're trapped in a walk-a-thon (with the addition of bikes and horses). However, as you gain some distance from the trailhead the crowds thin out, and by the time you arrive at Arch Rock, some sense of tranquility is usually restored to the journey. Arch Rock itself is a jaw-dropping destination at the end of the trail, a small bluff jutting out over the ocean, with awesome views of the coast to the north and south. You may see harbor seals, pelicans, and some months of the year, migrating whales. On the way to the rock the trail keeps to a modest grade, so even though the round trip is almost 9 miles, it's manageable for most hikers. You'll pass through forests, meadows, and coastal grassland on this hike that is nice all year round. The landscape might be delightfully moody in the fog, but you'll have the best views on a clear day.
Trail Stats
