Tule Elk Peninsula

Escape from city life to this Point Reyes treasure. This 9M trail, mildly sloping with some rollers, provides a fine workout while one enjoys the dramatic natural beauty. The path leads down a narrowing peninsula with the Pacific Ocean waves on one side, and the calm Tomales Bay on the other, and then heads to the northernmost end at Tomales Point.

In springtime, the grasslands are ablaze with buttercups, iris, and poppies. At the third mile, the proper trail ends and becomes a sandy footpath. This range is where you are likely to observe a social herd of Tule Elk. You can actually get quite close. Walk quietly and pause to take in these magnificent creatures. Continue for the next mile and a half to where the ocean meets the bay at an exhilarating craggy bluff. Only you and a few hikers will share the privilege of this viewpoint.

Facilities: Restrooms only.

Tips:

It can get windy along the coast; have a wrap just in case.
This trail makes for a beautiful, peaceful walk, which can be enjoyed by all. Be sure to check out the views at Drake's Landing, a 1/2M steep downhill sandy path to the beach area after your run. Signs warn that swimming is dangerous.
Take your camera; you will be sorry at Tomales Point if you don't.
In March, look for gray whales migrating north.
Point Reyes National Seashore.
The Coastal Traveler describes outings along the coast, beaches, wildflowers and towns.

Directions:

Highway 1 to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard just past the village of Olema. Turn left.
Turn right at Pierce Point Road, this goes on for miles. Lookout for tule elk along the way, we saw some males on the hillsides near one of the historic dairies.
Park at the Pierce Point Ranch and start at the Tomales Point Trailhead.
Point Reyes Park headquarters: (415) 663-1092.

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