Matt Davis Trail
Hike through redwoods and ravines to ocean views, with a unique pancake breakfast reward at West Point Inn.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Matt Davis Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through redwoods and ravines to ocean views, with a unique pancake breakfast reward at West Point Inn.
"Hike through the clouds, found magic at the top, and pancakes at the end!"
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Pantoll Campground for easier access to loops. Stinson Beach parking fills up fast!
🥞 Pancake Breakfast Timing
Check West Point Inn hours before your hike; they're not always open!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pancake Breakfast at West Point Inn
Near the summit of Mount Tamalpais
Hike to a remote inn for a hearty, affordable pancake breakfast. A unique reward after a challenging trek.
Ladder in Steep Ravine
Steep Ravine Trail
A thrilling, albeit short, ladder section adds an adventurous element to the hike through a mossy ravine.
Ocean Views & Fog
Various points along the trail
Experience breathtaking coastal vistas, often shrouded in mystical fog, creating a dramatic and beautiful atmosphere.
Towering Redwoods & Lush Ravines
Matt Davis Trail & Steep Ravine Trail
Hike through diverse landscapes, from sun-dappled redwood forests to vibrant, moss-covered ravines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pancake Breakfast Hike
Trail Combinations & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Pantoll Campground for easier access to loops. Stinson Beach parking fills up fast!
🥞 Pancake Breakfast Timing
Check West Point Inn hours before your hike; they're not always open!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking uphill. A camelback is recommended.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Expect rocky paths and tree roots. Good hiking shoes are a must!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Pantoll Campground for easier access to loops. Stinson Beach parking fills up fast!
🥞 Pancake Breakfast Timing
Check West Point Inn hours before your hike; they're not always open!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking uphill. A camelback is recommended.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Expect rocky paths and tree roots. Good hiking shoes are a must!
🗺️ Trail Combinations
Combine Matt Davis with Dipsea & Steep Ravine for a varied loop.
☁️ Foggy Views
Embrace the fog; it adds a magical, ethereal quality to the views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Matt Davis Trail's diverse scenery, from towering redwoods to stunning ocean views, and the unique pancake breakfast reward. Some find the elevation challenging, especially on the return climbs, and parking can be difficult on busy days.
"Great trial. Could combine with dipsea trail and Old mind trial these trials to hike a loop. Great one"
Tiger Chang
"Where to begin? Matt Davis trail is awesome defined. Start at Stinson Beach to hike the Matt Davis trail up to Pantoll Campground, it's a great workout with very few other hikers on the trail. Sometimes you can catch some spectacular views of the sun rays piercing through the fog and trees. Hike the MDT all the way to the Nora trail and take the Nora trail to the West Point Inn for a relaxing lunch on the elevated porch. The Matt Davis Trail is a real local gem!"
Ted Eicher
"Beautiful view, well maintained trail, water fall, plants..."
Christine Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From San Francisco, you can drive to Mount Tamalpais State Park. The most common starting points are Pantoll Campground or Stinson Beach. Driving time is typically around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Limited public transport options exist. The Marin Transit bus 61 can take you to Stinson Beach, which is a trailhead for the Matt Davis Trail. Check schedules in advance as service can be infrequent.
Pantoll Campground is a popular starting point for loop hikes, offering direct access to the Matt Davis Trail and connecting trails. Stinson Beach is another option, but parking can be very limited and expensive, especially on weekends.
While Mill Valley is nearby, the primary trailheads for the Matt Davis Trail are at Pantoll Campground or Stinson Beach. You might need to connect via other trails or use a shuttle service if available.
From San Francisco, take US-101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge, then CA-1 South towards Stinson Beach. For Pantoll Campground, follow signs for Mount Tamalpais State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a parking fee at Pantoll Campground and Stinson Beach. Fees are typically per vehicle and can vary by season. Check the Mount Tamalpais State Park website for current rates.
While the park itself doesn't have a separate entrance fee, you will pay for parking at designated lots like Pantoll Campground or Stinson Beach.
The West Point Inn pancake breakfast is a popular draw, but their operating hours can be limited, often only on weekends. It's crucial to check their schedule in advance to avoid disappointment.
Hiking at night is generally not recommended due to safety concerns and potential park regulations. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
The pancake breakfast at West Point Inn is very affordable, often around $13, making it a great value for the experience.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Matt Davis Trail can range from moderate to difficult, especially when combined with other trails like Dipsea and Steep Ravine. Expect significant elevation gain and some steep sections.
A popular loop combining Matt Davis, Steep Ravine, and Dipsea trails is approximately 6.4 miles with around 1,920 feet of elevation gain.
You'll encounter diverse scenery, including towering redwood forests, lush mossy ravines, open coastal views, and sometimes dramatic fog.
Restrooms are available at trailheads like Pantoll Campground and Stinson Beach. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike as facilities are scarce on the trails themselves.
Yes, many people hike the Matt Davis Trail solo. It's well-trafficked enough to feel safe, but always let someone know your hiking plans.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for dramatic fog rolling in, sunbeams filtering through redwoods, coastal vistas, and the unique ladder in Steep Ravine. The West Point Inn also offers charming photo ops.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light. Fog can create dramatic, moody shots at any time of day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in California State Parks, including Mount Tamalpais. Always check park regulations before flying a drone.
Keep an eye out for clearings that offer expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding Marin Headlands. The ascent from Stinson Beach often provides these.
A versatile camera with a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant ocean details or wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for uneven terrain and significant elevation changes, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes and plenty of snacks and water. The diverse scenery, from tall trees to ocean views, will keep kids engaged throughout the hike.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own lunch and snacks is a great way to save money. The pancake breakfast at West Point Inn is also remarkably affordable, offering a substantial meal for a low price, making it a budget-friendly treat.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
Be mindful of the elevation gain and the potentially slippery conditions, especially after rain. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding foot traffic and enjoying the solitude. Always be aware of your surroundings and other hikers on the trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Pancake Hike
While the pancakes are a major draw, remember to check the West Point Inn's operating hours before you go, as they are not always open. Combining this with a longer loop hike makes for a memorable half-day or full-day excursion. The views from the inn's porch are also a pleasant bonus after your efforts.
Crafting Your Perfect Loop: Matt Davis, Dipsea, and Steep Ravine
+1This loop offers a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. You'll traverse coastal bluffs, descend into a shaded, fern-filled ravine, and climb through redwood forests. The elevation gain can be significant, particularly on the return leg, so be prepared with ample water and sturdy footwear.
Starting at Pantoll Campground offers an alternative entry point, often leading to a different sequence of trails. Regardless of your starting point, this combination provides a comprehensive taste of Mount Tamalpais's natural wonders, from ocean panoramas to intimate forest glades.
Navigating the Terrain: Elevation and Footing
The trail surface itself can also be demanding. You'll encounter rocky paths, exposed tree roots, and uneven terrain, particularly in the wooded sections and ravines. This necessitates wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction to prevent slips and provide ankle support.
For those looking for a slightly less strenuous experience, consider hiking the Matt Davis Trail downhill from Pantoll Campground to Stinson Beach, enjoying the ocean views as you descend. However, remember that the return trip will be uphill.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit