Nix Kinney
Long (nearly 10 mi round trip) but relatively easy hike along costal cliffs and through an Elk Preserve. I wasn't prepared to hike for a mile or two in sand, which made for a relatively slow and annoying few hours, so if this isn't for you, turn back at the cypress grove. However, it's worth mentioning that Tomales Point is stunning. It does feel like the end of the world in the best way. There were many black cormorants hanging out and nesting, and the probably inaccessible hidden beaches were cool to behold. Plus, more Elk!
4.0
Beware, the trailhead has been viciously washed out, which adds a few extra miles to an already demanding hike, so only the brave and the foolish will prevail. Start early, not to avoid foot traffic, but because it will take a while to summit... and then the lake will take you captive like the silent siren it is. Switchbacks, bugs and intense inclines will make you hate life a little bit, but know that if you persist, you will be heavily rewarded. Spoiler alert: you will reach a point where the end feels near (you are at the highest point, there are lakes, the earlier intensity seems to have subsided etc). Please note it is not. You have a long, steep decline ahead of you that is significantly longer than you are prepared for. What got me through the whole thing was thinking I was close, but I have probably ruined that one for you if you disregarded the spoiler alert. All I can say is JUST KEEP HIKING! Eventually, gloriously, and with great aplomb, you will reach the mother effing Lake and she will knock your socks off. The suffering you've just endured will be forgiven because the price was just. Bring your swimsuit because you are a masochist now - the glacier water will be so cold it will hurt, and you will love it. Stay for a long time, because it puts off the fact that you eventually need to hike back. Know that it will suck, but your friends will be instagram-jealous and memories of Blanca will make you believe in magic again.
5.0
Turned into one of my favorite Hikes. Went in early July when there was still a little chill. It was medium trafficked probably because of its out-of-the-way trailhead location. The hike to Spray Falls was pretty easy, and the waterfall itself was stunning. I encourage you to continue upwards to the alpine meadows. There are endless switchbacks on your future but once you breakthrough, the wild flowers and melting show and random streams will be oh-so worth in. Lunch in a spring marsh then continue higher! Lakes, streams, snow and spring will greet you! It was ah-ma-zing. Saw some mountain goats in the distance too, so +++ for that. On the way back we ran across a black bear. Or rather, a black bear ran in front of us, and thankfully, continues to barrel up the mountain. Slightly terrifying so take bear warnings seriously. They're out there for sure.
5.0
The switchbacks and the high traffic took away from the hiking experience. Definitely get there early, and be prepared to work hard for the final destination. Once at the lake, WALK AROUND IT. To me, that was the most rewarding.
3.0
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