Let's go hiking to the pancake breakfast on Mt. Tamalpais

July 11, 4:08 PMBay Area Hiking ExaminerSusan Alcorn

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West Point Inn welcomes hikers photo Susan Alcorn

Tomorrow, July 12, will bring a fine opportunity to get in a decent hike, eat a hearty breakfast with companionable guests, enjoy spectacular views, and support a worthy cause. West Point Inn, on Mt. Tamalpais, is having one of their monthly summer pancake breakfasts from 9 AM to 1 PM.

West Point Inn was once a stopover point for tourists who rode what was billed as the "Crookedest Railroad in the World." The Mill Valley and Mt. Tamalpais Scenic Railway, with its 281 turns and curves carried passengers from Mill Valley to the top of the mountain. Historic West Point Inn, the only remaining structure of the railway, was at the westernmost point of the railroad. After the railroad discontinued its use in 1930, the inn began to fall into disrepair and only the tremendous efforts of hundreds of volunteers over the years have kept it open.

Nowadays it is popular with hikers who may visit for a few minutes' rest or to stay overnight in its rustic accommodations. There is no electricity, but there is propane-run heat, light, and refrigeration. Overnight guests should bring flashlights, sleeping bags/linens and towels.

Whether you come tomorrow for the pancake breakfast, or for another visit, you can hike in on several trails. The easiest hike is by way of the Stage Road Trail from Pan Toll Ranger Station. It's a relatively level two-mile walk. Directions are given on West Point Inn's website, along with a map, for several other access routes including a lengthier and more strenuous hike from Mill Valley. "From the North end of Throckmorton hike up the Railroad to West Point Inn. You will be following the right of way for the Crookedest Railway in the world, including the Double Bow Knot loops (2 hours)"

West Point Inn,1000 Panoramic Hwy,Mill Valley, CA 94941-1766, (415) 388-9955

Future pancake breakfasts are scheduled for August 9, September 6, October 11, 2009. $10.00 adults,  $5.00 kids. Reservations not required.

To read more about hiking on Mt. Tamalpais and West Point Inn click here and here.

Happy trails, Backpack45