The Tennessee Valley Trailhead is located at 591 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941. It's about 15 minutes north of San Francisco. +1

Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead, but it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving before 9 AM is highly recommended. Street parking along Tennessee Valley Road is also available but can be narrow and fills up fast. +1

Information on public transportation options to the Tennessee Valley Trailhead is limited. Driving is the most common method. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for potential bus routes serving the Mill Valley area.

The parking lot is designed for standard vehicles. Large RVs or trailers may find parking challenging due to the limited space and narrow access roads.

From San Francisco, take US-101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge. Take the exit for CA-1 North towards Mill Valley. Continue on CA-1 North and turn right onto Tennessee Valley Road. The trailhead will be on your left.

No, there is no entrance fee to access the Tennessee Valley Trailhead or the trails. It's a free public access area.

The trailhead and trails are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area for any specific seasonal or temporary closures.

No advance booking is required for general access to the Tennessee Valley Trailhead. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.

Yes, there are vault toilets available at the main parking lot of the Tennessee Valley Trailhead. Additional restrooms may be found further along some of the trails.

Dogs are allowed on leash on the main Tennessee Valley Trail and the Oakwood Valley Trail. They are not permitted on Tennessee Beach itself.

The main trail to Tennessee Beach is approximately 1.7 miles one-way and is mostly flat, making it suitable for beginners and families with young children.

Yes, beyond the main trail to the beach, there are steeper sections and connecting trails that offer more challenging hikes with significant elevation gain and varied terrain.

You can expect stunning ocean views, rolling hills, and even city views from various points along the trails, especially from the overlook above Tennessee Beach.

The main trail to Tennessee Beach has some shaded sections, but there are also areas with steep climbs that are exposed and unshaded. The Oakwood Valley Trail offers more tree cover.

The hike from the parking lot to Tennessee Beach is about 1.6 miles and can take around 30-45 minutes each way, depending on your pace.

There are no dining facilities directly at the trailhead. You'll need to drive to nearby Mill Valley or Sausalito for restaurants and cafes.

Yes, Tennessee Beach is a popular spot for picnics. It's recommended to pack your food and drinks as there are no concessions available.

Mill Valley offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. It's a good place to grab lunch before or after your hike.

Typically, there are no food trucks or vendors operating at the Tennessee Valley Trailhead. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions.

You can find grocery stores and convenience stores in Mill Valley or Sausalito to purchase snacks and drinks before heading to the trailhead.

The overlook above Tennessee Beach offers spectacular panoramic views. The beach itself, the coastal scenery, and the changing landscapes along the trails are also very photogenic.

Sunrise hikes are popular for their serene atmosphere and beautiful light. Sunset can also offer dramatic coastal views, though be mindful of trail access and daylight hours.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures on the beach.

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so it's best to check with the park authorities if you plan for professional shoots.

The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset provide the most flattering light, creating soft shadows and warm tones. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic coastal light can still be compelling.