Point Reyes hiking: Tule elk and amazing views at Tomales Point
Tule elk at Point Reyes -- by Joe Reifer
Sunday we hiked the Tomales Point trail in Point Reyes [map] and saw about 90 tule elk. All I can say is wow. If you live in the Bay Area, this hike is highly recommended. Point Reyes: The Complete Guide to the National Seashore & Surrounding Area has lots of great information about hiking in the big beautiful wilds of West Marin. The Bay Area Hiker site has a good description of the hike. Here are a few additional tips:
- Go early. The fog came in around 1pm, and so did the crowds (although it wasn't terribly crowded). We started the hike a little after 10am and finished around 3pm. Going an hour earlier would have been helpful.
- Bring layers and wear pants. When the fog rolls in you don't want to freeze. The last mile out to Tomales Point is a narrow trail with a lot of brush at ankle/shin level. Don't let the last mile of this overgrown trail deter you from going all the way out to the end - the views are incredible, even if it's foggy.
Cliffs near Tomales Point -- by Joe Reifer