The spring wildflower bloom at Chimney rock is one you do not want to miss. This is a 1.75-mile round trip, mostly level, trail. Besides wildflowers, you can see elephant seals, other wildlife, the old Coast Guard life boat station and some of the most phenomenal views of our ocean and coastline. You can add on a visit to the historic Pt Reyes Lighthouse at the other end of the peninsula as well. This is an opportunity to spend the week end in the area and enjoy other aspects of the National Seashore.
Because we have a large group interested in this event, and because parking at Chimney Rock is very limited, we have devised a Plan B.
Jim Richardson has offered to lead a group to walk the Bear Valley Trail, which is an easy walk into the forest with diverse eco-systems and wildflowers. This will obviate the 40 minute drive out to Chimney Rock from the Visitor Center and you will not have to leave so early. Those interested meet at the front door of the Bear Valley Visitor Center
1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station at 10 AM. Bring a lunch or use the nearby restaurants. See
Let me know if you choose this option.
For those who choose the Chimney Rock walk, we need to carpool by meeting at the same place above at 9 AM to organize the carpools. Bring a lunch, dress in layers and prepare for sun and wind.
We have a waitlist for this trip so let me know if your plans have changed.
The Bear Valley Visitor Center is located approximately 30 miles (50 km) north of San Francisco, less than 1 mile off of Highway 1 along Bear Valley Road. Travelers may approach the park via the winding scenic Highway 1, either from the north or the south. Visitors can also reach the park via Sir Francis Drake Boulevard or the Point Reyes/Petaluma Road. See:https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm
What to bring: Binoculars, lunch, wildflower identification books, hiking and sun gear.