Estimated arrival time: 4pm
We end the day by taking the Dipsea Trail off the ADT to reach the Muir Woods visitor center overflow parking lot (waypoint T90112)
The stage begins by moving southeast along the Olema Valley Trail, with a modest rise and fall offering a suitable warm-up. After nearly 3 miles, the route crosses the Pacific Coast Highway at the Randall Trailhead--and around the same time we cross the San Andreas fault zone. This is where the day's major ascent kicks in, climbing over 1000 feet before joining the Bolinas Ridge Trail. As the name implies, the trail onward generally follows the ridge line, with an undulating track that moves through a series of ups and downs, topping out over 1800 feet. The Coastal Trail leads gradually into the long descent, dropping back down to 430 feet by day's end near the Muir Woods Visitors Center.
Important: Plan appropriately for your food and water needs for an 18-mile hike. We expect to have a support vehicle accessible at three points: Randall Trailhead (2.8 miles), McKennan Gulch Trailhead (11.3 miles), Pantoll Campground (15.6 miles). Potable water is available at the campground, and we'll also have some jugs available in the vehicle for refill.
Plan ahead: While parking is free at the Five Brooks Trailhead, Muir Woods requires both an entrance fee and parking prepaid in advance. They expect a crowd for the holiday weekend.