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    Steep Ravine Trail

    4.9 (48 reviews)

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    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.

    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.

    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.

    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!
    Jennifer M.

    Fun hike! Went around 9 or 10am on a Saturday morning. The weather was perfect. I mainly wanted to come here to see the famous ladder, but ended up going all the way down to Stinson beach and back. Parking can be tricky..the lot closest to the trail gets filled pretty quickly, so try to get here early! Beautiful trail in general.. Some mini waterfalls, and tons of towering trees. Worth the sore muscles :0) check this place out! Ps. There's a geocache hidden somewhere along this trail! Keep your eyes open ;)

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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.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    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.

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    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    4.8(435 reviews)
    7.3 km

    Just past SF this park has so many different trail options perfect for all hiking levels. The…read moredownside is this place gets PACKED! My sister and I arrived before 8am at the Watershed parking lot and barely found a space. We did the trail that took us to the West Point Inn for the pancake breakfast and round trip was close to 5 miles so it was a great workout. There's gorgeous views and well! On the way back to the 101 however it's a mess. The road on the way down is crowded with parked cars, which makes driving through challenging. That's the only thing about this park, other than that I'd love to come back in spring when everything is green and vibrant!

    My first association of Mt Tam is from Cowgirl Creamery's best seller, Mt Tam Triple Cream with…read moreHeart cheese. Ever since then, I've wanted to hike this peak, today I have achieved my wish. Early June with mild coastal temp, 50s-60s. Started up Matt Davis Trail in the foggy forest, to Pantoll Campground, to West Point Inn where we can look down to the top of the fog layer, to the Fire Lookout building at the Peak. Then we came down reverse but split off to Steep Ravine and Dip Sea trail after the campground. I've also always wanted to climb that ladder. This hike provided views of the Pacific ocean on the West as well as views of Richmond-San Rafael Bridge on the East side. I thoroughly enjoyed the cool lush forest, but actually my favorite section was the single track along the slope of the open area after the Mt Tam State Park sign.

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    Muir Woods National Monument

    4.6(1.9k reviews)
    4.4 km

    Muir Woods is a must-see oasis in the midst of the Bay Area! Arriving to this specific National…read moreMonument is no easy fiat; it requires you to go thro some windy ups-and-downs to eventually reach the spot. If you suffer from motion-sickness, just drive slowly and mindfully. After arriving, there are several parking lots in which workers will guide you. ATTN: THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE IN THIS AREA & YOU WILL NEED A PARKING RESERVATION BEFORE COMING. Once you past all that --- the best part: the quietness of nature! I was informed the entire trail is about 1 1/2 miles around --- and that if you truly took your time, you could spend 1h30min+ here. I DID! There's something so soothing about the stillness of nature against the backdrop of the busyness of the city just below it. Looking at how grand these Redwoods are, make you realize how small "we" are in the grand scheme of things. It's a perfect visual and reminder that we are part of the great ecosystem of life, and should play our role in it --- to help preserve them & maybe ourselves in the process as well. Definitely recommend!

    From city noise to ancient redwood silence in under an hour…read more You'll find flat boardwalks winding through the groves and longer hillside trails if you want a bit more adventure. Redwood Creek runs through the canyon, home to salmon and trout. You can see the highlights in a few hours or stay longer. I always recommend exploring Canopy View to Lost Trail, and Fern Creek for quieter, less-traveled pockets of forest. How lucky are those who live anywhere near this place. I love driving up early in the morning for the most magical fog. Arriving always feels like stepping into a living time capsule from the Middle Ages. Some of the tallest trees on Earth stand here, roughly 1,000 years old and rising over 250 feet. The air shifts as you enter: cooler, darker, scented with earth, cedar, and rain. Standing beneath trees that have survived centuries of storms, wars, fires, and human chaos makes your own worries feel smaller. It's humbling and grounding. Things to know before you go: You need a parking reservation, no exceptions. Entrance and parking fees apply (America the Beautiful Pass is accepted). A shuttle from Sausalito is an option if you prefer not driving on narrow roads. Cell service disappears, so save anything you need beforehand. It's always cooler here, usually 10-20 degrees, so bring a layer. Bathrooms are only at the entrance. Food is extremely limited (one small cafe) so bring water, snacks/lunch. Pets aren't allowed. And always take a moment by the creek, it's the quiet heart of the entire ecosystem.

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    Dawn Falls - Dawn Falls Trail

    Dawn Falls

    4.5(48 reviews)
    3.9 km

    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!

    *****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!

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    Cataract Falls Trail - 1.10.26

    Cataract Falls Trail

    4.7(257 reviews)
    10.0 km

    I had forgotten just how gorgeous this hike is--the scenery is incredible the entire way. Be…read moreprepared for a steady climb through most of the route, with plenty of wooden stairs, gnarly roots, and rock steps, but the stunning views make every bit of effort worth it. There are many great spots to stop for photos, take a break, or enjoy a picnic--we did all three. Thanks to the recent rain, there was still plenty of water flowing, which made the trail even more beautiful. The picnic area at Laurel Dell is especially serene, with a babbling brook nearby. There's even an outhouse, which is always a welcome sight. I actually found climbing up much easier than descending as one has to really pay attention to their footing. We were happy seeing Alpine Lake again knowing we were close to end of hike.

    Went here with a friend and her dog and had such a great time. Such a beautiful, peaceful hike and…read moredefinitely one of my favorites on Mount Tam. The drive in was beautiful too, the views of Alpine Lake along the way made the whole trip feel extra special before we even got to the trail. Be prepared for a lot of stairs, so it can definitely get your legs working, but the waterfalls make it completely worth it. Hearing the water and being surrounded by all the greenery made the whole hike feel so calm and relaxing. The views throughout the hike are gorgeous, and it's such a nice escape if you're looking for something peaceful and scenic. Definitely recommend checking out Cataract Falls if you're up for a little workout with a really rewarding payoff. Definitely will be coming back :)

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    Steep Ravine Trail - hiking - Updated May 2026

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