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July 19, 2023
Hiking
August 11, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Dipsea Steps
4.9
(10)
135
hikers
22.7km
07:28
1,080m
1,080m
Hike the difficult 14.1-mile Dipsea Trail in Mount Tamalpais State Park, featuring redwood forests, ocean views, and challenging stairs.
4.0
(1)
8
hikers
7.46km
02:24
330m
330m
The Homestead Hill loop via Dipsea Steps is a dynamic hiking experience that takes you from the challenging ascent of the historic Dipsea Steps into a world of diverse landscapes. You'll traverse through dense redwood groves, past small waterfalls and creeks, and emerge into open coastal scrub, all while enjoying the rich green groundcover of ferns. The route offers a fantastic blend of forest immersion and expansive vistas, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views from Homestead Hill that sweep across the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
This 4.6-mile (7.5 km) moderate loop, with its 1075 feet (328 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 24 minutes to complete. The initial climb up the 680 Dipsea Steps is a significant cardio workout, and the varied terrain, including rooty singletrack and steep sections, demands good fitness and sure-footedness. Parking near the Mill Valley trailhead can fill up quickly, so plan an early start, especially on busy days.
Beyond its physical challenge, the Homestead Hill loop via Dipsea Steps is notable for its historical significance, being part of the renowned Dipsea Trail, home to the nation's oldest trail race. The trail's ability to transition through multiple micro-environments, from lush canyons to ocean-view scrub, makes it a standout. It offers a less crowded alternative to nearby Muir Woods while still providing stunning forest scenery and a rich array of ecosystems.
5.0
(3)
48
hikers
7.06km
02:06
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 380 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 70 m
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