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Sky Trail Loop

Point Reyes Station, California

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

9.55 miles

Elevation Gain

1818 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

The Sky Trail Loop Run is a great trail to hike, or backpack across the roof of Point Reyes National Seashore, California. You'll pass its highest point Mt. Wittenberg all the way down to Sculptured Beach at the Pacific Ocean.

Sky Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore is a dramatic, mostly single-track trail that runs along the main spine of the Inverness Ridge and across highest mountains in Point Reyes, looming above the Olema Valley and Highway 1 which mark the San Andreas Fault rift zone and the dividing line between the Pacific and North American plates. The trail takes you through several ecological zones including massive stands of Eucalyptus, Cyprus, and Bishop Pines, including an area that was burned during the massive Vision Fire in 1995, which burned some 12,000 acres in the park.

The highlight of the trail is the 1.5 stretch that begins at the intersection with Baldy Baldy Trail and descends a ridgeline dramatically over the Pacific Ocean, providing breathtaking views up and down the coastline, from Mt Tam & San Francisco across Drakes Bay and Limantour Beach to Point Reyes and the Lighthouse.

The trail can be done either as an out-and-back or more commonly as a loop with either Coast Trail to Bear Valley or Coast Trail to Fire Lane. 

The most direct route is an out-and-back beginning at the trailhead on Limantour Road, which can be reached via Bear Valley Road, Sir Francis Drake Blvd., and Highway 1 very near to Point Reyes Station.

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Camping
Photography
Running
Backpacking
Hiking
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Sky Trail Loop Reviews

Went there not knowing what to expect and what a wonderful surprise it was! It was a very rewarding hike with beautiful views. Lots of great picture opportunities, as well. Really worth it!

Hiked the Sky Trail on New Years 2016, and it was by far one of the most diverse trails I've ever been to. Start by walking in a rainforest, navigate through foggy pines, then a long trek downhill with the ocean in full view. We were lucky enough to find a beautiful little cove on the beach where we camped not 20 yards from the beating waves. It's a long, strenuous hike, but every turn rewards you with a more beautiful view than before.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Sky Campground via Sky Trail

Coast Campground via Laguna Trailhead

Hike the Laguna Trail & Coast Trail Loop

Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop

Walk along Limantour Beach

Explore the S.S. Point Reyes Shipwreck