Discover the Steep Ravine, Dipsea, and Matt Davis Loop Trail

Photography by Josh Cripps Nestled deep within Mount Tamalpais State Park in California, the Steep Ravine — Dipsea Trail Loop and Matt Davis trail combination provides an unforgettable hiking experience for all levels of outdoors people. Visitors can see the best of what nature has to offer in this 6.6-mile loop that links awe-inspiring red rock formations with a trek punctuated by pocket after pocket of stunning desert landscapes.

Trail Overview

This begins at Pantoll Rancho, which is near the lovely Stinson Beach with a trail ascension of about 1703ft. The loop usually takes about 3:41 to go all the way around, so it would be a great half day trip for people who love nature.

A Variety of Experiences

The rich diversity of the area is shared with you as you make your way along this trail. The path itself winds through dense, fog-hillocked coastal woodland under a closed canopy so thick in the shade that it provides an almost welcomed respite from life today. There is a calm rhythm from birds singing and leaves rustling together with Hercule Poirot –> the sounds that will accompany you on your walk.

The main lure of this trail is not the waterfall, but rather a lovely wooded cascade just off to its side. Looking at or listening to waterfalls and rivers will awaken your soul, adding a little extra magic on your hike. In addition to this, the abundant wildlife you might spot here- deer and a veritable feast of birds like woodpecker families and lizards sunning themselves – only adds to how much we enjoyed our nature-inspired escape.

Scenic Views

Unlike the peaceful forests, this trail also gives views of ocean from above once you get to higher elevations. The views of the Pacific Ocean from up here are absolutely stunning, and on clear days you can see right out to sea. It also marks the ideal place to stop, grab a picture and realise just how beautiful that California coast really is.

Hiking Tips

Hikers wanting a mostly gradual uphill for the return John Muir Trail part of this hike could reverse around as I did here. This method makes the hike a lot more bearable back up to Pantoll Campground for anyone!

Note: Although dogs are not allowed on this trail, it is open year-round and inviting to intrepid outdoor folks in all four seasons Add in restrooms at the Pantoll Campground and halfway point, this hike is set up for a long adventure.

Conclusion

This Steep Ravine, Dipsea & Matt Davis Loop is a gem in Mother Nature’s pocket of California. Nowhere is this more apparent to veteran hikers and novices than in the challenging landscapes, different ecologies, superb views along the way with — all these entice you on a Californian trail. Ready to tackle a new trail or just connect with the tranquil landscape around you, this loop in Mount Tamalpais State Park delivers an unforgettable escape. Get your backpack and go on that adventure to California nature wonders, it would make you want thousands of miles long hike.