Sausalito To Point Reyes Runner's-Hiker's Trek
Description
Overview
This is our 5 day/4 night trek that is ideal for running or hiking. This trek was inspired by a custom trek we designed for Runner's World magazine. The trek traverses the beautiful trails of Marin County and Mount Tamalpais, "arguably the country's best trail running". Of course, these same trails are lovely to hike as well! You will see and experience Sausalito and Muir Woods National Monument, and end at Point Reyes National Seashore park. It is the perfect runner's-hiker's vacation.
Details
The trek includes 3 days of running or hiking 9 to 10 miles (14 to 16 km). Each night you will stay in charming country inns or luxury boutique hotels. In addition, you will have opportunities for excellent dining. It is also possible to customize this trek, adding a day at the beginning and starting in San Francisco crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also add a day at the end, running or hiking up Mt. Vision in Point Reyes, Point Reyes ending in the village of Inverness on Tomales Bay.
Day 1: Sausalito
Start your vacation in the historic village of Sausalito overlooking the beautiful San Francisco Bay. Your luxury boutique hotel is on the waterfront, where you can enjoy the artists’ studios, cafes, shops and restaurants of this charming town. Dinner this evening can be at a Michelin recognized restaurant or any number of delicious dining options.
Running/Hiking today: No planned hikes. Your personal Trail Guide will suggest sights to see.
Day 2: Sausalito to Muir Beach
Ascend up the hidden stairways of Sausalito admiring the California inspired architecture of the homes as you climb. Run or hike through the Marin Headlands (known for an abundance of wildflowers in the spring) in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to the village of Muir Beach. Enjoy spectacular views of the rugged Pacific Ocean, Angel and Alcatraz Islands and the San Francisco skyline. Take time to relax on the sandy beach when you arrive. Tonight’s lodging is a classic English Tudor Inn with a salon “snug” for guests and a pub reminiscent of Stratford-on-Avon where you can enjoy classic pub fare along with excellent local wines and beers.
Hiking today: 9 miles (14 km) with 2300 feet (700 m) of elevation gain and loss.
Day 3: Muir Beach to Mill Valley
Start your day with a climb out of the village of Muir Beach taking in the dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean as you run or hike onto Mount Tamalpais. Descend into Muir Woods National Monument enjoying the ancient and magical redwood forest with it’s famous “Cathedral Grove” where you will walk among the giant old-growth redwoods. Then run or hike part of the Dipsea Trail, where the famed Dipsea Race is run. Finish in the charming town of Mill Valley, and enjoy dinner at one of the excellent Mill Valley restaurants all within walking distance of your lovely inn.
Hiking today: 10 miles (16 km) with 2000 feet (610 m) of elevation gain and 1900 feet (580 m) of elevation loss.
Day 4: Mill Valley to Olema/Point Reyes
A transport will take you to Limantour Beach, in the Point Reyes National Seashore. Run or hike a portion of this stunning 10 mile beach enjoying the mighty Pacific Ocean up close. Leaving the beach behind you’ll enter the forest and descend to the Bear Valley Visitor Center which you can explore. Finish your hike in the small historic town of Olema. A rustic yet luxurious lodge welcomes you with expansive lawns and lazy Adirondack chairs to rest after a day of hiking. Your hotel has a nice restaurant where you can dine on a seasonal menu specializing in the bounty of West Marin farms and fisheries.
Hiking today: 9 miles (14 km) with 1300 feet (400 m) of elevation gain and 1100 feet (335 m) of elevation loss.
Day 5: Trek Conclusion
Your Wine Country Trek comes to an end.