Mount Tamalpais & Coastal Trail loop

The terrain is quite varied, offering a mix of fire roads, designated single-track trails, and some paved sections. You'll ride through redwood forests, oak woodlands, and open grasslands. Expect significant elevation gains and descents throughout the route. For example, the Coast View Trail is a scenic singletrack, while other sections like Deer Park Fire Road are fire roads that can be quite steep.

This loop is rated as moderate. While it offers diverse riding, some sections involve significant elevation gains and descents, with certain climbs reaching a 12% grade. Riders should have good fitness and some mountain biking experience. The Coast View Trail is often described as an easy, fast, and non-technical descent, but the overall loop presents challenges.

The scenery is a major highlight. You'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Pacific Ocean, and on clear days, even the distant Sierra Nevada mountains. Specific trails offer views of Muir Woods and the coastline. The West Point Vista and picnic area provides extensive panoramic views, and the Coast View Trail stages beautiful coastal hillsides and ocean views as you descend.

Mount Tamalpais State Park has several parking areas. Specific parking information for the start of this loop can vary, but popular access points often include areas near Pantoll Campground or Stinson Beach, which provide access to various trails within the park. It's advisable to check the park's official website for the most current parking details and any potential fees.

Mount Tamalpais State Park generally has day-use fees for parking. These fees contribute to the maintenance and operation of the park. Specific permits for mountain biking are typically not required beyond the standard park entrance/parking fee, but it's always best to check the official California State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on fees and regulations before your visit.

Dogs are generally allowed in Mount Tamalpais State Park on paved roads and fire roads, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. However, dogs are often not permitted on single-track trails. Since this loop includes single-track sections, it is generally not suitable for riding with dogs. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out.

The Mount Tamalpais area is enjoyable year-round, but the best times are typically spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the views are often clearest. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed sections, and winter can bring rain, making some trails muddy or slippery. Always check weather conditions before your ride.

Yes, this route intersects with several other notable trails. You'll find sections that are part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 01 - North Bay, Marin Coastal Bike Route, and the California Coastal Trail. Other trails like the Coastal Fire Road, Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail, and Old Railroad Grade Fire Road also make up significant portions of the loop.

This loop stands out for its unique combination of diverse ecosystems, transitioning from redwood forests to coastal landscapes. It offers consistent, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean. The variety of riding—fire roads, singletrack, and paved sections—caters to different preferences within a single route. Its accessibility just north of San Francisco also makes it a popular choice.

Be prepared for significant climbs; some sections, particularly on fire roads like the initial part of Deer Park Fire Road, can be quite steep, averaging a 12% grade. While the overall difficulty is moderate, these climbs require good fitness. Descending the Coast View Trail offers a rewarding, non-technical experience with great views.