Wildlife Watch Wednesday: Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes

Want a good chance to see tule elk?

Hike Tomales Point.

This trail sits in the Tule Elk Reserve at the north end of Point Reyes. It is open and windy. The views are wide the whole way.

Quick facts

·         Trail: Tomales Point Trail

·         Distance: 9.5 miles round trip

·         Time: 4–5 hours

·         Effort: Medium

·         Cost: $0 (no fee)

·         Dogs: Not allowed past Pierce Point Road

Getting there

NPS says the trailhead is about a 35‑minute drive from Bear Valley Visitor Center. You take Bear Valley Road, then Pierce Point Road, to the end.

Roads are narrow. Drive slow. Add extra time.

What the hike is like

This is a long out‑and‑back in open grass land.

There is little shade. Wind is normal. Sun can feel strong.

Because it is out and back, the plan is easy:

·         Walk out.

·         Turn around.

·         Walk back.

If you go all the way to Tomales Point, plan on the full 9.5 miles.

How to watch elk the right way

Wildlife is not a photo prop.

Use these rules:

·         Watch from far away.

·         Do not walk at elk for a close shot.

·         Let animals cross first.

·         If an elk looks up, turns, or moves off, you are too close.

If you have field glasses, bring them. You will see more and you will push less.

What to bring

Bring more than you would for a short hike:

·         Water

·         Snacks

·         Wind shell

·         Sun hat and sunscreen

·         Warm layer

Rules in the elk reserve

NPS says pets are not allowed past Pierce Point Road. The area is part of the Tule Elk Reserve.

NPS also says bikes and horses are not allowed past Pierce Point Road.

Leave No Trace (keep it simple)

Stay on the trail. Pack out all trash. Do not feed animals.

The goal is to see elk and leave no mark.

The bottom line

Tomales Point is a 9.5‑mile out‑and‑back with great elk odds.

Go early. Dress for wind. Bring water. Watch from far away.

You will get better photos and a safer hike.