Breath taking vista from the Coastal Trail above Muir Beach. (Photography by Sarah Hawthorne)
According to our iPhones, San Francisco is supposed to get a brief reprieve from the rain this week, and temperatures may even get into the high 60s. Treat yourself to a little sunshine after the storm on one of these gorgeous Marin hikes. Champagne optional, but recommended.
The Coastal Trail
The Coastal Trail from Tennessee Valley to Muir Beach (or vice versa) boasts some of the most spectacular views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Marin Headlands. The trail winds around the top of dramatic cliffs (filling you with the urge to quote Titanic) and dips down so you can hear the roaring ocean below. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic hawks circling above your head.
Muir Woods
The famous Muir Woods National Monument is one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the Bay Area. Enjoy the giant coastal redwoods trees in all their glory with a beautiful walk along one of the many trails that winds around the valley. Avoid the crowds by parking on Panoramic Highway opposite the Mountain Home Inn and hike your way down into the valley floor via the Ocean View or Lost Trail from the Panoramic Trail. Or park on the ocean side of Panoramic Highway, precisely where it meets the famous Dipsea Trail, and hike the Dipsea down to the official park entrance.
Seven Sisters
Sitting pretty atop Mt. Tam State Park is one of the most beautiful stretches of road you will ever see. When the fog burns off, you can see all the way to Bolinas and Stinson Beach. Take a scenic drive, a vigorous bike ride, or a peaceful hike in the spot where pretty much every car commercial ever was filmed.
Stinson Beach
Prefer your views with a little less effort? Park your car at Stinson Beach and walk along the shoreline with your toes in the sand. Arrive first thing in the morning to beat the crowds and embrace the gentle sunshine of the early hours. The rolling hills of Marin make for a scenic backdrop as you watch seals and even dolphins play in the water around you. Relax at the Parkside Café afterwards for a refreshing drink and bite to eat.
East Peak
Pack your lunch and refreshments, sit for a while, and soak up the impressive 360-degree views East Peak has to offer. Feel free to take plenty of photos — its worth showing off to your Instagram followers.
Hawk Hill
Want to see the San Francisco skyline at its best? Take a short drive from the city up Hawk Hill and enjoy stunning views of the Marin headlands, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and the City. By day, Hawk Hill is a great place to watch ships sail under the GGB. By night, there is an amazing display of city lights and the illuminated bridge, perfect for ending a romantic date with someone special (don't forget the bubbles!).
Muir Overlook
Muir Overlook is a lovely little spot perched above Muir Beach just off Hwy 1. The bluff showcases stunning coastal views for miles in both directions. Pack a picnic to make this little outing extra special. On your way back to San Francisco, stop by the Pelican Inn for a taste of the English Countryside in this quaint little pub.
Article and images sourced from http://www.7x7.com/marin/7-gorgeous-post-storm-hikes-marin-county
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