May Flowers Hike: Forest, Serpentine, and Coastal Scrub Wildflowers
Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Starts at 12pm at Pantoll
Join State Park Interpreter Hillary on the fifth in a series of hikes that explores the abounding spring wildflowers in Mount Tamalpais State Park. This hike will take in later blooms or berries of the redwood forest, other woodlands, serpentine meadows, and coastal scrub. Flowers (or berries, if things bloom early) should include California spikenard, azaleas, irises, fairy bells, golden yarrow, and more!
Meeting location: Pantoll Parking Lot
Hike description: Moderate loop hike of about 3.5 miles that loses and regains about 600 feet elevation total. The hike begins with a slightly steep downhill on the Alpine and Bootjack Trails. In the hopes of enjoying more azaleas and some serpentine wildflowers, it'll detour onto Troop 80 Trail and Troop 80 Spur to Van Wyck Meadow. It then follows the gentle ups and downs of the TCC Trail. A short, somewhat steep climb up the Dipsea Trail to Cardiac Hill opens up the vista for ocean views before we take the easy, underrated Old Mine Trail back to Pantoll. Estimated duration is about 3 hours, including break time and photo time.
Additional information: Weather conditions may be variable and trails are rugged. Dress in layers and wear suitable footwear. Bring water and snacks. Poison oak and ticks may be present along the trails. Pets other than service animals are not allowed on these trails.
