The north-facing slope is broken by several small streams and ravines. Understory species include hop hornbeam ( Ostrya virginiana), musclewood ( Carpinus caroliniana), and witch hazel ( Hamamelis virginiana). The mixed deciduous forest is dominated by oaks, red maple, sugar maple, white ash, beech, basswood, and hickories. Mount Pleasant was nominated for National Landmark status in 1974 based on the quality of its old-growth forest. The forests include both previously logged forest and nearly undisturbed old-growth forest.
Two gravel roads, both closed to vehicles, bear south from the parking area. The gravel parking area supports up to 10-15 vehicles. The trailhead is unmarked, but it is relatively easy to find when equipped with a Mount Tamalpais map. As an added bonus, there is also no parking fee.įor these reasons and others (including a personal preference for hiking uphill first), starting and finishing at White Gate is the more agreeable choice. Tam’s westernmost slopes-is usually less congested. The alternative trailhead at White Gate, situated approximately two miles west of Pantoll-near the base of Mt. The parking area at Pantoll often fills up quickly, so arrive early to evade crowds. The first is the Pantoll campground/ranger station, situated along the Panoramic Highway roughly midway between Stinson Beach and the park’s east entrance (see map here).
Two trailheads provide access to the hike described here. At 4.2 miles with 900 feet in elevation change, the Dipsea-Steep Ravine circuit is a good choice for those satisfied with moderate length and difficulty (for a more strenuous, 7-mile loop, try the Matt Davis-Steep Ravine loop).
With an abundance of interconnecting trails, Mount Tamalpais State Park presents several options for loop hikes. Map of Dipsea Trail – Steep Ravine Trail Loop, Mount Tamalpais State Park adapted from:
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