Cheers to Chimney

Hike to Chimney Rock in Point Reyes National Seashore

04.21.2026

If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but you're going to want to linger awhile. This gem packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring and early summer.

Enjoy a bounty of more than 30 species of radiant wildflowers like cow clover, pussy ears, and lupine across the grassy spit. Young and older elephant seals sunbathe on the multitude of beaches and coves below.

Numerous species of birds like the pigeon guillemot, Pacific and common loon, and brown pelican feast on the bounty of fish living off the coast.

And the end of the Chimney Rock Trail is a marvel, with panoramas of the coast’s golden bluffs, and a view reaching as far as the Farallons.

NOTE: Stay on designated trails. Undesignated sections such as bluffs have cracks and can crumble, so are deemed unstable and unsafe. To reach the trailhead, follow signs for the Lighthouse along Sir Francis Drake Blvd. until a large sign directs you onto Chimney Rock Rd. Parking is limited and there is no longer a shuttle service. For more information, call the Bear Valley Visitor Center at (415) 464-5100. No dogs.

Photos by Yvonne Pasquini, @yvonne_pasquini

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

    View

  2. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  3. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View

  3. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View