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TRIP 13 Pine Mountain

Distance 4.7 miles, Out-and-back Hiking Time 2 to 3 hours Elevation Gain/Loss ±1000 feet Difficulty Moderate Trail Use Mountain biking allowed, Leashed dogs Best Times All year Agency MMWD Recommended Map Trail Map of Mt. Tamalpais and the Marin Headlands (Olmsted)

HIGHLIGHTS This out-and-back route, using Pine Mountain Road and a short trail atop Pine Mountain to its summit, takes you to one of the best vantage points in the Bay Area, where your efforts on a clear day will be rewarded by fantastic views. Pine Mountain’s name refers to a nearby grove of bishop pines — a coastal, two-needled species.

Along the way, plant lovers will stay busy identifying a variety of trees and shrubs, some found only on the locally prevalent serpentine soil. This area is also a favorite with mountain bikers.

DIRECTIONS From Highway 101 northbound, take the San Anselmo exit, also signed for San Quentin, Sir Francis Drake Blvd., and the Richmond Bridge. Stay in the left lane as you exit, toward San Anselmo, crossing over Highway 101. After 0.4 mile you join Sir Francis Drake Blvd., with traffic from Highway 101 southbound merging on your right. From here, it is 3.6 miles to a stoplight at the intersection with Red Hill Ave. From the intersection, stay on Sir Francis Drake Blvd. as it goes straight and then immediately bends left.