Best Tam hikes: Expert picks for exploring Mt. Tamalpais

Steep Ravine Trail, Mount Tamalpais

Justin Scott/National Park Service

Mt. Tamalpais in Marin County is a visible icon known for stunning views, world-class recreational opportunities, and incredible diversity of life. Whether you're visiting for the first time, or you've experienced the mountain many times, here are picks for new ways to see the mountain. Show your love by supporting One Tam—you can donate, volunteer, or join a BioBlitz. See you on Mt. Tam!

Matt Davis Trail

Difficulty Level: Very Strenuous

Trail Length: 13.60 miles round trip

The magnificent Matt Davis Trail is one of the main thoroughfares to experience the glory of Mt. Tamalpais.

Dipsea Trail

Difficulty Level: Very Strenuous

Trail Length: 9.44 miles round trip

Stretching from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach, the famed Dipsea Trail is for hikers looking for a challenge.

Self-Guided Forest Hikes around Mt. Tamalpais

These self-guided walks offer a glimpse into what forests need to be healthy, and how our One Tam partnership is working to address these threats on our public lands, improve forest health, and evolve our understanding of caring for forests.

Photographer and Waterfall on Steep Ravine Trail

Mt. Tam Waterfall Hikes—Our Picks for the Best Falls

Nothing beats that moment in a hike when you turn a corner to the sights and sounds of a rushing waterfall. February through April are normally the prime months to experience full falls within the Mt. Tamalpais watershed.

Cataract Trail

Difficulty Level: Moderately Strenuous

Trail Length: 2.70 miles round trip

Located on Mount Tamalpais' wild northern slope, this hike starts on Cataract Trail, passes the Laurel Dell picnic area, then veers on to the High Marsh Trail and on to peaceful Potrero Meadows via the Kent Trail.

Ben Johnson Trail

Difficulty Level: Easiest

Trail Length: 2.64 miles round trip

One can start the hike to the Ben Johnson Trail through Muir Woods National Monument by either the Redwood Creek Trail or the Hillside Trail.

Willow Camp Fire Road

Difficulty Level: Easiest

Trail Length: 2.34 miles round trip

Start at the intersection with Shoreline Highway. Stay left at the first intersection and then right at the next two until you reach a parking area. The trail will now climb steeply straight up the mountain. The road winds and switchbacks some until you hit the ridge.