Stairway to heaven - the Dipsea Trail

Photo Credit: Dipsea Steps by Anne Aganon

As Bay Area hikes go, the Dipsea Trail is probably the most well known among local hikers and runners.  While it's notoriety stems mainly from being home to the oldest footrace in the US - The Dipsea has been run every year since 1905 - it's equally known for the 667 steps that greet casual hikers at the start of the trail in Mill Valley.  But don't let the stories fool you, the end of this hike is even more impressive as it offers unparalleled views of Stinson Beach as you descend to the coast.  So if you're in the mood for a helluva workout while experiencing the best hike within 100 miles of San Francisco, read on.

The first decision you have to make is whether you want to do the hike as a round trip or one way.  If you're doing the round trip, buck up for a long day.  At a distance of 14.2 miles, the numerous climbs and descents will defintiely take their toll.  So rest up, carbo load, and take plenty of water because the only place to refill is Stinson Beach.  Most first timers opt for the more manageable 7.1 mile one way trip.  That of course requires you to leave transportation at Stinson before you start, so it's a decision that you need to make in advance.

When you're ready to get started, make sure you leave ample time for a pre-hike breakfast at the Dipsea Cafe.  It's a favorite among locals and is on the way to the trailhead if you're coming from San Francisco or points south.  The pancakes are fantastic and huge...and highly recommended.  When you're finished, make your way to the trail near downtown Mill Valley.  For complete directions as well as a great description of the entire course, go here.

While the Dipsea is known locally because of the aforementioned 667 steps that have you sweating 5 minutes into the hike, the trip offers much more than that little novelty.  Along the way, you'll cross through the southern most part of Muir Woods, home to some beautiful Redwoods, and climb Cardiac Hill on your way to the highest point of the trail at 1360 feet.  From there, you'll slowly descend towards Stinson Beach which in the end provides gorgeous panoramic views of the Pacific.

As I mentioned previously, if you're feeling really special and have the time, take a break, enjoy some sun and then head back to Mill Valley the same way you came.  Maybe after a few round trips, you'll be ready to join the really die-hard racers in the Double Dipsea which is run every year in late June.  Good luck with that.