Coast, Lake Ranch, and Ridge Trail Loop

This challenging 18 km (11.3 mi) loop is designed for jogging and typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete. However, your actual time may vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The loop officially begins at the Palomarin Trailhead. You'll find parking available there, which serves as the starting point for this and other popular routes in the area.

The terrain offers a diverse experience. The initial 3.5 km along the Coast Trail provides scenic ocean views. It then transitions to a gradual, consistent ascent for about 4.8 km on the Lake Ranch Trail, leading into fir forests and coastal scrub. The Ridge Trail continues for another 7.7 km, with the final 1 km on a gravel road back to the trailhead. Much of the inland sections are shaded.

You'll experience a dramatic shift in scenery. The first part of the loop offers expansive coastal views of the Pacific Ocean. As you move inland, the environment changes to serene fir forests and coastal scrub, providing a sense of solitude away from the more popular coastal sections. In the fall, the Bigleaf Maples display vibrant yellow leaves.

The shaded forests are home to various bird species. In the fall, after the first rains, you might spot a profusion of mushrooms and huckleberries. Keep an eye out for California Turret Spider burrows along the Ridge Trail, appearing as tiny, camouflaged towers on mossy banks.

While enjoyable year-round, the fall is particularly beautiful with vibrant yellow leaves from Bigleaf Maples and seasonal mushrooms. During summer, be prepared for sections of the Lake Ranch and Ridge trails to become overgrown with tall grasses, thorny brambles, stinging nettle, and poison oak.

Regulations for dogs in the Phillip Burton Wilderness can vary. It's best to check the official Point Reyes National Seashore website or signage at the trailhead for the most current rules regarding pets on this specific loop.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of trails within the Phillip Burton Wilderness, where this loop is located. However, always check the official Point Reyes National Seashore website for any updates or specific regulations that might apply.

Given the trail's varied terrain and potential for overgrowth, especially in summer, wearing long pants or gaiters is highly recommended to protect against tall grasses, thorny brambles, stinging nettle, and poison oak. Sturdy jogging shoes are also essential for the mixed surfaces.

Due to its 18 km length and sustained ascent on sections like the Lake Ranch Trail, this loop is generally not considered kid-friendly. It's best suited for experienced joggers or hikers looking for a moderately challenging outing.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll spend significant time on the Ridge Trail and Lake Ranch Trail, and also pass through parts of the Coast Trail, Point Reyes Bird Obs, Palomarin Beach Trail, and Teixeira Trail.