ProTrails

Mt Tamalpais State Park: McKennan Gulch Trail

The McKennan Gulch Trail is a short but strenuous unmaintained route in Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Being an unmaintained route, there are times where navigation can be difficult and only experienced hikers should attempt this hike. For those short on time or simply on a driving tour, there is a very short, handicap accessible version of the McKennan Gulch Trail (starting from the same trailhead) which provides excellent views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin Headlands. The trail is technically a brief extension of the Coastal Trail and provides an access point to hike the Coastal Trail in either direction.

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«Despite beautiful views, the McKennan Gulch Trail is deceptively difficult»
Despite beautiful views, the McKennan Gulch Trail is deceptively difficult
Despite beautiful views, the McKennan Gulch Trail is deceptively difficultThe trail blooms with color during the spring and early summerThe trail leads in and out of interesting forests on its way to the Stinson Beach areaLooking south across the Marin Headlands towards San Francisco from the McKennan Gulch TrailThe Farallon Islands - 23 miles off shore and visible like ghosts through the fogA hiker making the very steep climb up the McKennan Gulch TrailThe McKennan Gulch Trail provides an unabated view of the Pacific OceanHeavy foliage along the McKennan Gulch Trail provides shelter for area wildlifeLooking north at Stinson Beach from the trailA lizard suns itself on a rocky outcrop adjacent to the McKennan Gulch TrailViews to the east seem endless from the McKennan Gulch TrailA stone bench offers visitors a place to relax and enjoy the spectacular views