Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Bike touring routes & trails
United States
California
Marin County
Stinson Beach

Marin Coastal Bike Route

Moderate

2.6

(20)

94

riders

Marin Coastal Bike Route

00:46

8.84km

300m

Cycling

Cycle the moderate 5.5 miles (8.8 km) Marin Coastal Bike Route in Mount Tamalpais State Park, featuring ocean views and Gull Rock Overlook.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

609 m

Rocky Point Road

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The short but steep road down to the environmental camp at the beach is an exhilarating descent and worth the detour. It's closed to car traffic except for campers with a reservation.

Tip by

2

1.69 km

Steep Ravine

Highlight • Mountain Hut

A narrow trail leads down to this sparsely visited beach, from the simple cabins that can be rented from the state park.

Tip by

3

1.88 km

Spectacular location and spacious campsites with picnic tables among rocks on this wild, undeveloped plateau overlooking the coast.

Tip by

4

5.69 km

Gull Rock Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

Every bend of the winding shoreline highway offers new and spectacular views of the coast. This group of guano-encrusted rocks is just one of the myriads of tiny islands created by eroding cliffs dotting the coastline.

Tip by

B

8.84 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

6.28 km

2.05 km

466 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

8.33 km

516 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (140 m)

Lowest point (30 m)

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Friday 8 May

19°C

10°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall difficulty of cycling this route?

This specific Komoot route is rated as moderate, featuring a mix of climbs and descents over its 8.8 km distance. However, the broader Marin Coastal Bike Route encompasses a collection of routes that can range significantly in difficulty, from challenging segments with steep climbs and technical descents to easier, flatter options. Riders should be prepared for varied terrain and elevation changes, especially if exploring beyond this particular tour.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this cycling route?

The Marin Coastal Bike Route, including this tour, typically involves a mix of paved roads. Some sections of the broader Marin County coastline may also include gravel or mixed-terrain paths. You'll encounter significant climbs and descents, offering a diverse and engaging cycling experience.

What are the best times of year to cycle the Marin Coastal Bike Route?

The Marin Coastal Bike Route offers stunning views year-round, but the best times to visit are generally during the spring and fall. These seasons often provide milder temperatures and clearer skies, making for more comfortable cycling conditions. Summer can be beautiful but may bring coastal fog, while winter can be wet.

Are there any notable viewpoints or landmarks along the way?

Yes, this route offers several scenic points. You'll pass by Rocky Point Road and the Gull Rock Overlook, which provide spectacular ocean views. The broader Marin coastline is renowned for its sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Muir Beach, the Marin Headlands, and on clear days, even the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline.

Does this route intersect with other trails?

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several other paths. You'll find yourself on parts of the Marin Coastal Bike Route, Rocky Point Trail, Steep Ravine Trail, Red Rock Trail, Hill 640 Fire Road, and a path known as Lowest Tide Only - path to steep ravine.

What are the parking options for accessing this route?

As this route is located within Mount Tamalpais State Park, parking is generally available at designated trailheads or visitor centers within the park. Specific parking details can vary, so it's advisable to check the Mount Tamalpais State Park website or local signage for the most current information on parking areas and any associated fees.

Are dogs allowed on the Marin Coastal Bike Route?

Regulations regarding dogs can vary depending on the specific section of the Marin Coastal Bike Route and the land management agency. Within Mount Tamalpais State Park, dogs are generally permitted on paved roads and in developed areas, but often not on unpaved trails. Always check specific trail signage and park regulations for the most up-to-date information on where dogs are allowed and leash requirements.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Mount Tamalpais State Park?

Mount Tamalpais State Park typically charges a day-use fee for vehicle entry. This fee helps maintain the park's facilities and trails. While specific permits are not usually required for general cycling on designated routes, it's always a good idea to check the official California State Parks website for Mount Tamalpais State Park for current fee schedules and any specific regulations that might apply to your visit.

Are there any facilities like cafes or restrooms along the route?

While this specific 8.8 km route is relatively short, the broader Marin Coastal Bike Route passes through areas with various amenities. You might find facilities like Steep Ravine and Rocky Point-Steep Ravine Environmental Campground, which may offer restrooms or other basic services. For cafes, pubs, and bike shops, you would typically need to venture into nearby towns like Stinson Beach, Muir Beach, or Mill Valley.

What makes the Marin Coastal Bike Route a 'cyclist's paradise'?

Marin County is often called a 'cyclist's paradise' due to its unique combination of iconic climbs, exhilarating coastal descents, and incredibly scenic roads. The routes offer diverse landscapes, transitioning rapidly from stunning ocean vistas to redwood forests and rolling hills, all within easy reach of San Francisco. This variety, coupled with the challenging yet rewarding nature of many rides, attracts cyclists globally.

Is this route suitable for touring bicycles?

Yes, this specific Komoot tour is designated for 'touringbicycle'. The Marin Coastal Bike Route generally offers a mix of paved roads and some mixed-terrain options, making it suitable for touring bikes, especially if you're prepared for some climbs. For exploring the full potential of the area, including some dirt climbs, a gravel bike might also be a good choice.

Nearby routes

Hard

4.8

1,214

San Francisco Bay Trail and Marin Headlands Loop

02:34h

38.2km

590m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy