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Enjoy this clifftop jaunt that features spectacular wildflower displays in spring


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Map Key

0.9

Miles

1.5

KM

Point to Point

211' 64 m

High

92' 28 m

Low

81' 25 m

Up

127' 39 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

26%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly Easy access and potential whale-watching are sure to make this a successful family outing! Turn around whenever your troops want to or make a lollipop using the Headlands Overlook Trail.

Description

This trail is a crowd pleaser! Short and sweet, it ambles atop 500ft. cliffs, taking in amazing coastline views. The trail is named for a rock outcrop that looks a bit like a chimney. Springtime (April and May) is wonderful time here for wildflowers.

Some of the best whale watching can be done from here- look for the spouts from grey whales making their way from Alaska to Baja, Mexico (January to May). Elephant seals can often be spotted lounging on the beaches below.

This easy trail is often foggy and windy, but on clear days the Farallon Islands are visible about 20 miles off the coast. Note: bikes are allowed on this trail.

Flora & Fauna

California poppy, yarrow, flax, daisy, iris, lupine, Indian paintbrush. Grey whales and elephant seals.

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 14 votes

#626

Overall
  4.6 from 14 votes
5 Star
64%
4 Star
29%
3 Star
7%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#80

in California

#626

Overall
6 Views Last Month
785 Since Jan 30, 2015
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

31%
15%
46%
0%
8%
0%

Photos

Watch the waves break through a rock arch formation at the end of Chimney Rock trail.
Apr 20, 2019 near Inverness, CA
Head down to the little boat house for a chance to see elephant seals up close
Apr 20, 2019 near Inverness, CA
Cliffs along Point Reyes
Apr 20, 2019 near Inverness, CA
Flowers along the trail
Mar 24, 2015 near Inverness, CA

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