Description

Tennessee Valley Trail is a very popular hiking and biking path in Marin Headlands.

The trail lead through a glen of rolling green, and it culminates at a dark-sand beach between golden cliffs.

Alcoves in the rock warrant exploration, and treasures washed on shore beckon the beachcombers.

There’s even an engine of a wrecked ship that you can find at low tide. Besides the beach, the trail is known for trees, wildflowers, and wildlife.

A trickling stream provides water for most of the year, nourishing the valley’s biodiversity.

You’ll see blooming lupines and poppies in spring, golden grassland in summer, and foliage on the trees year round.

Look for rabbits, deer, coyotes, and hawks while on the the trail.

Many species of birds can be spotted near the beach as well.

There’s the typical run of seabirds, but also a host of waterfowl that stop at a freshwater pond near the mouth of the creek.

For the sake of the wildlife, dogs are not allowed on the Tennessee Valley Trail.

The rest of the family can enjoy a leisurely bike ride here, however.

The surface is gravel and dirt, and the grade is moderate the whole way. Sources: https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/tennessee_valley.htm https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/upload/map_MAHE_150429web.pdf