#9 - Stinson Beach Trail
Mount Tamalpais State ParkLength: 4.4 mi • Est. 1 h 48 m
According to Access Northern California (http://accessnca.org/access-northern-california/explore/explore-detail-view/?site_id=141): Stinson Beach and its 3.5 miles of sandy oceanfront are very popular during summer. Part of the beach is maintained by the National Park Service, which provides volleyball equipment free of charge, runs a snack bar (open in summer) through a concessionaire, and staffs several lifeguard towers between late May and mid-September. A wooden path with a large viewing deck leads over 100 feet to the high tide line. There is reportedly good bouldering on the south end of the beach.
Dogs are allowed on leash in the parking lot, picnic areas, and on the county beach (north of the northernmost parking lot); they are not allowed on the National Park Service section of the beach.
Across the entrance road from the central parking lot, a short path and bridge over a creek leads to a snack bar and restaurant, and, one block east, to the town's shops, restaurants, galleries, and small grocery store. There are no sidewalks and many of the businesses have steps.
If you're planning to drive to Stinson Beach, consider taking the Panoramic Highway as an alternative to Highway 1. This is an exhilarating ride: The road climbs and winds along the side of Mount Tamalpais, through rolling meadows and forest, then descends steeply into Stinson Beach. The views are so breathtaking it's hard to keep your eyes on the road.
ACCESSIBILITY: The park has three paved lots that all have designated accessible spaces. The center lot is the closest to the beach access ramp. Accessible restrooms and changing rooms are by the central and northernmost parking lots; the northernmost one is only open during summer. Both restrooms have a changing bench: the central one has a wider bench. Two beach wheelchairs (not self-operated) are available to loan for free. Advance arrangements are suggested since you will need an access code for the locker where they are stored; adjacent to the accessible parking spaces in the center lot, and cell reception at the beach may be limited. Reserve by calling the accessibility program manager at 415-561-4958. If you haven't made a reservation and a lifeguard is on duty (May to mid-September), they may be able to retrieve it. Beach chairs can only be used while visiting Stinson Beach, NPS property, and they cannot be taken away from the park to use elsewhere. Accessible picnic tables (firm and stable paths and surface, at least 27 inches of knee clearance) are at the center parking lot, between the northern and center lot and at the southernmost end; there are a few tables with multiple wheelchair spaces at them.
The trail is partially boardwalk with edge barriers, typically at least four feet wide, and estimated to have a mostly gentle (5% or less) grade. For a great view of the beach in a partially enclosed deck, head over to the Siren Canteen at the base of the main lifeguard tower. The path up to the café is steeper than 5% but it is likely easily manageable in a motorized wheelchair. There is very limited accessible seating at the tables.
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