About 15 minutes north of the city, over the bridge and through the winding roads leading up to the Marin Headlands, lies a coastline so stunning it rivals Big Sur.
To access the trail, park along Mitchell Road, near the Golden Gate National Recreation Fire Station and walk to the Northern end of the beach. Follow the dirt path the leads up into the hills and take the first left onto “Coastal Trail”, which goes along the bluffs. If you continue along the lowest trail you’ll eventually reach a cypress-lined tunnel, which opens to the most amazing views of Tennessee Cove.
We happened upon this hike somewhat accidentally after realizing the tunnel to Point Bonita Lighthouse was closed (thanks government shutdown). Not sure what to do next, we followed the road we’d come down and happened upon Rodeo Beach. Best. Discovery. Ever. The hike in the hills above can be made as short or as long as you like–the Coastal Trail Route to Tennessee Point was only 2 miles round trip, but there are tons of other trails you could tack on to extend
seesaw that we found on the beach
If you decide to take this hike,
Photography by Stephanie Quirk