Hiking Steep Ravine and Dipsea via Pantoll Station to Stinson Beach - Mt. Tamalpais

This fun and exceptionally scenic trail is wonderful for hiking families. 
The almost-4-mile trail includes many wooden bridges, small waterfalls, rushing creek, wooden ladder, brick steps, spectacular lush redwood forest, and coastal bluffs with spectacular ocean vistas. 
Yes, it has it all.

Start at the Pantoll Ranger Station on Mt. Tam. Follow the signs to Steep Ravine, and follow that trail downward as you begin to walk among the redwoods and ferns.

A little after passing the wooden ladder, you will reach a fork in the trail. Turn right to Dipsea trail, towards Stinson Beach. The views changes immediately - the trail opens up to wide open brush lands of grass, wild berries and wildflowers, with a view of the glittering Pacific Ocean right in front of you.

Continue until you get to the road, and follow the signs across the road to continue a little more to get to Stinson Beach. 

Parkside Snack Bar right at the entrance to Stinson Beach is a great option for lunch. You can get it to go and have it on the picnic tables or on the beach. They offer family friendly meals, at good prices.

When you’re ready to head back, take the shuttle/bus #61 back to Pantoll Station. The bus stop is right across the street from the playground next to the cafe, and costs $2/adult and $1/child. Bus schedule: https://marintransit.org/routes/61 

Along the trail and on the drive back up the mountain, keep your eyes on the side of the road! We saw several coyotes up close!