May Flowers Hike: Easy-going & Dog-friendly Hike with Chaparral Wildflowers
Mt. Tamalpais State Park
Starts at Pantoll at 12pm
Join State Park Interpreter Hillary on the seventh in a series of hikes that explores the abounding spring wildflowers in Mount Tamalpais State Park. This is the most easy-going hike (longer than some others, but gentle up and down) and will look at the blooms found in our chaparral and serpentine chaparral, including poppies, mariposa lilies, monkeyflowers, azalea, paintbrush, and more. Also features plenty of views (weather permitting) and a stop at the historic West Point Inn.
Meeting location: Pantoll Parking Lot
Hike description: Easy to moderate hike of about 4 miles round trip with less than 300 feet of elevation gain. It will simply go out and back on Old Stage Road with a gentle grade all the way. Less energetic participants can turn around before the West Point Inn. More energetic participants can take an alternate route back (Nora and Matt Davis) or take Old Railroad Grade up to East Peak or down to the Double Bow Knot before heading back. Decadent participants can pack a picnic to have at West Point Inn before making their own way back. Participants with lots of questions can stay with the guide for the return. There are restrooms and water at the trailhead and restrooms, beverages, and snacks at West Point Inn (donations required for hot drinks, lemonade, and snacks).
Additional information: Conditions will be warm if the weather is sunny and cool if it is foggy. The fire road is a bit rocky. Dress in layers and wear suitable footwear. Bring water and snacks (or dollar bills for snacks from West Point Inn). Poison oak and ticks are present along the trail, but easier to avoid with the wide path. Dogs on leash are welcome on this hike!
