Wildflower hike at Tomales point
Hike the spectacular Tomales point with water on both sides and tule elk.
Join the members of MITCNC, HCSF, and HBSANC for a hike at Tomales Point Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore! Experience rugged coastal beauty on this ~9.6 mile out-and-back hike through the Tule Elk Preserve, where you’ll walk alongside wild elk herds and historic 19th-century ranch buildings. The trail follows a narrow ridge offering constant views of both the Pacific Ocean and Tomales Bay, culminating in a dramatic bluff overlooking the surf.
Hike Details:
Distance: ~9.6 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1200 ft
Estimated Time: 5-6 hours
Entrance Fee: Free parking
Map of Hike: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tomales-point-trail
Please note that there are limited bathrooms at the trailhead, so please plan accordingly.
Where & When To Meet
When: 10:00am
Where: Tomales Point Trailhead (https://maps.app.goo.gl/mzjAmH1ovbWJFGTT7)
Please note that cell service may be spotty, so please plan to arrive on time to hike with the group. Carpooling is highly encouraged. Please coordinate with other hikers at https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/qa0xk2.
What to Bring
Food/Water: Have a good breakfast, bring snacks and lunch. There is no food along the hike. Bring at least 2 quarts of water per person.
Clothing: Dressing in layers with sturdy footwear is a good idea, and please wear long pants due to the presence of ticks. Sunglasses are also recommended.
Sun Protection: There is quite a bit of sun exposure so sunblock and a hat are highly recommended.
Important Notes
Bathrooms: There is a bathroom near the start of the trail at McClures Beach, but none along the trail. Please consider using the restroom along the way (for example, in Point Reyes Station).
Rain policy: If it's raining significantly, the hike is off. We will send out an email confirming the cancellation to all RSVP’d participants the morning of the hike.
No Pets are allowed on the trail due to the presence of elk.
Disclaimers
Joining any hike is entirely voluntary and participants assume any and all risks associated with the activities. By registering or attending this event, participants agree to be fully responsible for accepting all such risks.
Because this event is in person, you acknowledge and agree the below by coming to this event.
I acknowledge, agree and understand that:
(i) I am not required to participate in this event;
(ii) my participation is voluntary and at my sole risk;
and (iii) I am entirely responsible for my own health and safety.
Tomales Point Trailhead (https://maps.app.goo.gl/mzjAmH1ovbWJFGTT7)
Saturday, April 18, 2026
10:00am - 2:00pm PT
HCSF Members: Free
HBSANC Members: Free
Non Members: $5.00 Not a member? Register here for membership!
Click here to register
Event Registration (Harvard Alumni):
Please sign in with your HarvardKey otherwise a duplicate record will be created and you will not be able to log-in.
No HarvardKey? Please retrieve your HarvardKey here. If you need help, email ithelp@harvard.edu or call 617-495-7777
HCSF Guidelines for attending in-person events
If you are showing COVID-19 or Flu symptoms, please stay home. This is critical to the health and safety of our staff and communities.
Event Organizer:
Alexandra Morehouse
alexandra.morehouse@gmail.com