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    Steep Ravine Trail

    4.9 (50 reviews)

    Steep Ravine Trail Photos

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    Joan W.

    I love this hike because the trail is so lush and forested. It's around 4 miles but down and back but some people could take 2 cars and park at the other entrances on Shoreline or Panoramic which might be good to cut it in half for people that can't hike that far. The main entrance is at the Pantoll campground which isn't too big. If the lot is full, you can go higher up Pan Toll Road where there are pockets of land to park but since it's a paved road just be careful to watch out for cars and especially bikes that come whizzing down. The weekend brings lots of people, it can get crowded, but the weekdays are better if you can swing it because you have more of the forest to yourself. The ladder is about 1 mile from the Pantoll parking lot, it's the only waterfall I know in Marin that has a ladder. During the weekend it's harder to get photos of the ladder and waterfall without getting other hikers in it.

    James H.

    This is an awesome trail with scenic views for days. The name describes the trail. The trail is different in the way that it descends and keeps going down for the first half. Expect a lot of greenery and water streams. The trail is about 5 miles and I would say is moderately difficult. If you keep going you will eventually end up at Stinson beach. There is one parking lot at the trailhead but it fills up fast. Another parking lot is a short 0.5 mile walk away. Parking is $8, cash only. Be careful on the way there cause there are a lot of bicycles taking up the road. For sure not a trail for small children or pets.

    Trina H.

    I've done some intense hikes and the loop from old mine and Dipsea and up Steep Ravine is intense. There were beautiful ocean views and what seemed like a rainforest under the massive redwoods and a beautiful stream. The ladder was very unique. This trail gets super crowded and parking is insane. I prefer Cataract Falls for the scenery and payout for the effort.

    Absolutely beautiful!
    Shayla B.

    Insanely GORGEOUS!!! Now THIS is my kinda hiking trail, folks! Redwood heaven right before your eyes. Hiked the Steep Ravine Trail in conjunction with the Matt Davis and Dipsea trails for a loop, and I instantly fell in love with this part of the hike. This was definitely my favorite stretch of the loop. And, how could it not be?! You're basically hiking through a lusciously green meadow lined with the most vibrant plants and the most gorgeous Redwood trees. The peaceful sounds of the water running through the creek will gently sing to your ears as you meander through this stunning little forest. If you're lucky, you'll even be able to spot the little waterfall nearby. I mean, it's so gorgeous that it just downright looks fake. Oh, but it's real alright! A real beauty for sure. It seems like the popular way to get here is by hiking up the steps through the Dipsea trail from Stinson Beach. I decided to go the opposite way and take the Matt Davis Trail up and then reward myself by coming down through the Steep Ravine. Totally worth it either way that you go, but I feel like I'd do this loop the exact same way again. If you're coming from the Dipsea trail, the inclines through the Steep Ravine are pretty gentle. You'll also get to climb up the famous latter this way! I had to climb down it which was kind of tricky, but I made it work. It's so peaceful and serene. This is a popular trail, so if you're on it during the afternoon, you'll be sharing it with quite a few other people. But, it won't be so crowded that you can't enjoy it. This has easily become of my favorite Marin hiking trails! It's simply beautiful. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a gorgeous trail to explore.

    Denise W.

    A beautiful hike with lush greenery and running water stream. It took about 3.5 hours with small breaks round-trip. We started at Stinson beach (free parking), hiked uphill on Steep Ravine, and returned back down on Dipsea Trail with ocean views. It is a moderate level of difficulty, though any level of hiking experience can be suitable for all.

    Shane S.

    Steep Ravine Trial is awesome. Me and my friends went here recently. Had the whole trial to ourselves. Epic views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. Breathtaking views and perfect for a nice hike. The air here is super fresh. There are cabins right by the ocean yet the park ranger said need to be booked six months ahead of time. They run around $100 a night up to five people. Apparently there is a hot springs in a cave near the ocean as well yet only available certain times of year and only during low tide. Can't go wrong with a hike here.

    Chris L.

    "Jungle, Ladder, Nudist Beach?" When I asked my hiking friends what they thought was the most memorable Trail in the Bay Area, many of them mentioned Steep Ravine. This trail has some interesting history. For one thing, the famous artist Thaddeus Welch and his artist wife had a cabin here about a hundred years ago. I really wanted to find the location for the cabin, but I never really succeeded. The artist is the one who came up with the name Steep Ravine. I came here on a mild October morning. At 7:15 I found plenty of parking spaces at Pantoll campground. The trailhead is clearly marked at the back of the campground. It's easy to see why this is a favorite. It's a lush trail with tons of vegetation. It's like being in a forest! Be aware that it is fairly steep and uneven at places. Of course, there is the fun ladder to descend as well. Just be careful and you will be okay. It's easy to make a loop. I decided to come back on the Dipsea trail. Both trails are equally interesting and lush green. But the Dipsea Trail does not have a ladder. Near the junction with Dipsea, there is a fire road that leads to another historical place. It is an old Army artillery site close by. There's a few interesting artifacts to see there as well. You exit Steep Ravine trail at Highway 1. If you wish you can cross the highway and go see the Steep Ravine cabins there as well. It's a bit more of a hike, but I thought it was worthwhile. Pretty close to the Steep Ravine cabin is a small beach, which turns out to be a nudist beach. I wanted to go see it, but my wife told me I was not allowed to. Plus, I wasn't sure how I was going to write a Yelp review about a nudist beach. Would I be allowed to upload photos or video? Anyway, the beach seemed to be deserted. I was hoping to see some people, just so that I could confirm it was a nudie beach. Just think if you thought it was a nudist beach but it turned out not to be after you arrived. So all in all, the Steep Ravine Trail is well worth seeing. Be sure to come early to get a parking spot. If you happen to go to the nudie Beach, please tell me how it worked out.

    A new favorite trail
    Johnny M.

    We had such a good time on this hike! Almost the entire trail has tree cover overhead, which provides shade from the heat and some quiet from the nearby road. The cool air, the green canopy above, the beautiful water flowing alongside you, the rock steps and bridges all coalesce into a memorable scene. The trail is not very difficult with a nice distinct path for the majority of the hike. We saw all ages along the way. As long as you don't have a problem with stairs, you should be good. We hiked to the manmade ladder structure before turning back, but that was enough to leave a lasting impression on me. I hope we can come back to do this one a second time.

    Chris C.

    We did a roughly 7 mile circuit of Dipsea/Steep Ravine/Matt Davis, starting and ending in Stinson Beach. Moderately challenging hike - the steep ravine part probably had the most uphill grade - with very varied scenery along the way so never a boring moment. Compared to east coast trails most of the trail surface's squite even and not very rocky. At about 2/3 of the way we stopped on a hilltop to rest and have lunch - good spot for a view of the skyline of San Francisco. Closer to the end there was another smaller rock outcropping for a view of the town of Stinson Beach. The trails are all well maintained and marked and there are longer and shorter variations suitable for all levels and abilities.

    Lots of cute little bridges to cross
    Jennifer N.

    After a particularly rough week, the great outdoors was calling. I was looking for a hike that would be moderately challenging, not super long and involved a variety of terrains and scenery. The Steep Ravine Trail fit the bill perfectly! Following directions to the Pantoll Ranger Station, we arrived to a full lot. After doing a loop, we snagged a spot from someone leaving and paid the $8 to park for day use. Super helpful ranger helped us map out our route and off we went. Following the Old Mine Trail, we didn't turn right on the Dipsea right away, but instead followed that a bit more to the east and connected with the Dipsea route in the direction of Muir Woods. It's not the path to take if you are just doing the Dipsea/Steep Ravine Trail, but we veered off course a bit just to get a feel for the other trail heads in the area. After having our fill of that route, we doubled back and began the loop hike in earnest. The first part of the Dipsea trail after the Old Mine is open with expansive views of the coast. We saw the fogline and all the way out to the Sutro Tower-pretty epic and amazing. After scrambling down a narrow trail with chapparl you start to head down in to the forest. For the rest of the hike, it's a wonderland of redwoods, ferns, streams, footbridges and stairs. Once you reach the bottom of the Dipsea you will see a clearly marked sign to the Steep Ravine trail, which runs about 1.7 miles back towards the Pantoll station. There is a creek (which was down to a trickle but still present) that runs along the trail and what appear to be some small waterfalls (hard to tell in this drought but come winter, I can imagine it's all quite magical.) With several miles behind us, the hike back up through Steep Ravine was somewhat challenging (not strenuous, but at the tail end of our hike, we felt every step up that hill.) We made it to the infamous ladder, which is actually quite easy to scramble up and then after that just wound our way back up to the ranger station and campground. If you do the Old Mine Trail (which you can pick up immediately to the right of the restrooms) to Dipsea to Steep Ravine, I believe it's about a 3.9 mile loop. However, as we did, you can connect with a variety of other trails and I even saw signs indicating the distance to Muir Woods. There were plenty of other folks on the trail, but it wasn't overcrowded either. With clean restrooms, maps and easy access to the playground that is Mt. Tamalpais, the Steep Ravine Trail via Pantoll is a moderate and wonderous shorter hike. I can't wait to go back after some rain and experience the creek in winter or spring. Other tips: Bring plenty of water (although much of the hike is shaded, the up & down creep up on you,) layer (it was cooler in the forested areas,) take care with your footing-some of the stairs were damp and slippery and go with a buddy (while it seems like a safe and well traveled trail, there are a lot of rocks and roots and drop offs-so best to be with someone who can look out for you.) Enjoy and have fun!

    Russell H.

    This is a truly magical hike, that starts either at the Pantoll Ranger Station or at the South/East edge of Stinson. (I prefer to start at the Pantoll Ranger Station, go down to Stinson on Matt Davis Trail, have lunch in town, go to the ocean, and head back up Steep Ravine.) The trailhead from Stinson end is marked as "To Dipsea"--but once you're 20 minutes in to the hike you'll start to see the signs for Steep Ravine. The actual trail begins right at the base of a creek and seasonal pond. From there starts an incredible grove of redwoods that goes up the entire way to the ranger station. It's a journey through twists and turns, moss-covered giants, fallen trees, and trickling waterfalls. There's a ladder at one point (only way up a rocky part)--so it's not wheelchair accessible, and not good for little kids. Go in late spring when you'll see all the shades of green Marin has to offer. You'll be glad you did! I've taken a few out-of-town guests on this hike--and they've all been amazed. (Especially Oregonians: "Wow, there's no place in Oregon in which you can hike for two hours to a town for a great lunch, then see redwoods!")

    The ladder!

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    Ask the Community - Steep Ravine Trail

    Where do you park to get here?

    Pantoll Campground parking lot or Stinson Beach parking lot. There's another place near Stinson Beach where you can park in the dirt.

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    Review Highlights - Steep Ravine Trail

    “We started from Stinson Beach on the Dipsea trail and then to Steep Ravine to get to the Pantoll camp ground.”

    Mentioned in 21 reviews

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    Dipsea

    Dipsea

    4.7(91 reviews)
    1.5 km

    I finally made it to this trail! I used to live & work in Mill Valley (years ago) & never made it…read moreto this hike. We started at the beautiful Old Mill Park (where I used to take my niece & nephew when they were little). As mentioned in other reviews there are lots & lots of steps! Great cardio & leg strengthening. The views are so worth it and the trip back was super quick bring all downhill. Many other options of hiking trails to take from here which I like.

    One word; STAIRS! Lots of stairs. And inclines galore. The hike along the Dipsea trail is…read moredefinitely not for the faint of heart. It's a strenuous trek that maneuvers through some of the most beautiful parts of Mount Tamalpais and Muir Woods. The great thing is, you can combine this trail with other trails within the park to make it as easy or as strenuous as you'd like. One of the most popular variations of this hike is the Dipsea-Matt Davis-Steep Ravine loop trail. It's roughly 8 miles and 1,700 feet of elevation gain, and tackles parts of the Dipsea stairs and Matt Davis trail inclines. I hiked this loop and it was absolutely fabulous! The Dipsea portion of the hike is mainly exposed but offers some really scenic coastal views when you reach the top. Compared to the Matt Davis and Steep Ravine Trail, it was my least favorite, but I still enjoyed the workout that I got from hiking up the stairs. The Dipsea trail is definitely more of an incline workout versus a super scenic trek. But when combining this trail with other more scenic trails in the park, you'll be able to enjoy the best of both worlds. The Dipsea Trail can actually be accessed from a few different locations within the park. The three most popular access points are from Stinson Beach, Pantoll Campground, and Muir Woods National Monument. I started on the trail from Stinson Beach and I really enjoyed the loop through Steep Ravine and Matt Davis. Would recommend if you're looking for a versatile hike in Marin with a mix of stairs, ocean views, and forested pathways.

    Photos
    Dipsea - Lots of steps....

    Lots of steps....

    Dipsea
    Dipsea - Challenging yet incredible hike today

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    Challenging yet incredible hike today

    Hippie Tree - Sunset

    Hippie Tree

    4.7(102 reviews)
    5.1 km

    I first visited Hippie Tree a few years ago, and I remember there were two swings. Parking is…read morepretty easy as just park on the street along the residential area. Today I visited this spot again, and I got to park much closer than the previous time as I passed the entrance to the trail to Hippie Tree last time. The trail to the Hippie Tree has a slight incline, but pretty short hike. This time, there was just one swing. The swing was also pretty high so it was a bit difficulty to get on. The two girls who were there were not able to climb on. Then I tried to climb on, and I was able to do it. :D I showed them that using one leg to hook on the seat and holding onto the ropes to pull yourself up while swing the other leg onto the swing worked for me. This spot is truly a hidden gem, and I just felt pure tranquility when I was swinging there. :) The view is amazing even though today it was a bit foggy over in SF area so couldn't see the city and bridge as much.

    Definitely a hidden gem in Tiburon! The entrance is at the end of a residential area. There are a…read morefew spots to park on the side of the streets. It's a bit of an uphill walk towards the tree but once you get up there, it's to your left. We were there on a Saturday afternoon and it was empty so we got to enjoy the views and swings to ourselves. Check the weather prior before going because it can be cloudy and the view won't be as great.

    Photos
    Hippie Tree - Still swinging well into our 60's

    Still swinging well into our 60's

    Hippie Tree - Hippie Tree

    Hippie Tree

    Hippie Tree - The view

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    The view

    Dawn Falls - Dawn Falls Trail

    Dawn Falls

    4.5(48 reviews)
    3.9 km

    *****pay attention *****…read more Word, to the ignorant drivers who have never been on switchbacks DO NOT come here. As you blast down the very single car lane, not paying attention and laughing away isn't cute. Be mindful of cars and pediatricians. Believe it or not its not all about you! The road to the trail is all kinds of messed up. It's a single lane through a neighborhood with very little turnouts. Believe it or not, there are huge redwoods along this road. If you have never been on a road like this, please park at the bottom of the road!!! PLEASE! Even the folks who were walking up the road to the trail aren't alert. It's sooo fun to be surrounded by people who believe it's all about them yes, im being harsh, but it was that bad!

    Dawn Falls Trail is a 2.3-mile out-and-back trail near Larkspur, California. It's considered to…read morebe a moderately challenging route. It will take about an hour to walk through this beautiful redwoods round trip to the Dawn Falls. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running. The best part of the Dawn Falls trail is that it's not crowded but you may still see a few other people while exploring. This trail is open year round but the best time is from January through November. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. However, I do see local dogs roaming without their leashes. Only a few parking spots deter many visitors. However, if you will be willing to be patience, there will on a parkingspot for you. This trail is maintained so clean here, so please no littering! Enjoy!

    Photos
    Dawn Falls
    Dawn Falls
    Dawn Falls

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    Muir Beach Overlook - 07.27.25 historic concrete military structures once used as lookouts... these bunkers are now available for the public to explore

    Muir Beach Overlook

    4.8(121 reviews)
    6.5 km

    Beautiful spot along the coast. There is a short walk on a path to the lookout point. It's…read moreconnected to a couple of trails you can walk along. There is a bathroom that has no sink or water. The parking lot has a good amount of spaces. Note that this is federal and the parking lot is closed during shutdowns. You can park nearby and walk in there is no entrance or fee. If you are in the area and driving by I recommend stopping by for a few minutes.

    It's a bit of a hidden gem! [Highway 1 North of Muir Beach CA]…read more The Muir Beach Overlook was a nice stop along Highway 1 but to get here is a long, narrow and winding road. Parking lot isn't very big (15-20 spaces, maybe?) and could easily get full. There are bathrooms, picnic benches, interpretive signs, staircase... and huh? bunkers?! Historically, yes, this area was used as an observation station during World War II. There are a total of four bunkers, coastal defense systems for fire control especially after Pearl Harbor switched everyone to high alert for possible attacks against San Francisco. We went down the staircase... a short path that led out to a viewpoint overlooking the mighty Pacific Ocean about 400 feet below steep cliffs. Enjoy the views, there is no access to the shoreline below. Had we not known about this overlook we would've driven right by without noticing. It's kind of hidden. No road trip up Highway 1 would be complete without having a stop at this overlook. COST: FREE! Review #3851

    Photos
    Muir Beach Overlook
    Muir Beach Overlook - Coast info

    Coast info

    Muir Beach Overlook - Along the Owl Trail

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    Along the Owl Trail

    Steep Ravine Trail - hiking - Updated October 2026

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