MT. TAM: LAGUNA CREEK, CARDIAC HILL & MUIR WOODS
Hike Date: Saturday, May 21, 2022
Leader: Gary Weiss
Leader Email: gary@sfhiking.com
Leader Phone: 415-279-5570
Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
Departure Time: Shortly after 9:00 AM
Rating: Level 4
Mileage: 9.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1700'
Description: This is a really beautiful hike that includes most of Mt. Tam's varied terrains. There is only one short (.6 miles) off-trail section at the beginning going up pretty Laguna Creek. On that trail there are a few fallen trees that need to be "navigated". The rest of the hike, all on official trails includes a few exposed sections with amazing views, but we'll mostly be in the shade of redwoods. We'll stop off at Cardiac Hill - called that for the stiff climb up Dipsea Trail (which we're not doing). Then it's down to Muir Woods, the only place we're likely to see a lot of people. The hike back out of Muir Woods is the gentlest route. We'll get to see the late Spring/early Summer wildflowers. A few of the native orchids and Clintonia lilies will hopefully still be around. If it's a really hot day we can cut out about a mile and a half of the sunnier sections. Unfortunately no dogs are allowed in the National Monument. Please carpool if possible - parking is limited.
Clintonias in Muir Woods
Bring / Wear: Please bring LOTS of water, lunch and sturdy hiking shoes.
Weather Policy: Contact hikeleader if weather is questionable.
Alternate Meeting Place: Sierra Trail Trailhead, Mill Valley. Exit US 101 at the Stinson Beach/Hwy 1/Mill Valley exit. Turn left at Tam Junction (ARCO) to stay on Hwy 1. You'll eventually get to a split where you'll veer right off of Hwy 1 onto Panoramic Hwy. Shortly you'll come to "4 Corners" where you'll continue straight ahead on the only uphill option. It's 2.7 miles to the trailhead. There are a few pullouts that are used for parking before and after the trailhead. Google Maps Link
Alternate Meeting Time: 9:45 AM
Alternate Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Total driving mileage from San Francisco: 36.6 miles
easiest < 5 miles < 500' gain