Old Railroad Grade Trail (upper half) — Mt Tam
Old Railroad Grade Trail (upper half) — Mt Tam
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Old Railroad Grade Trail (upper half) — Mt Tam
Mountain biking
5.0
(20)
Tips
March 4, 2017
Mountain biking
March 11, 2021
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Old Railroad Grade Trail (upper half) — Mt Tam
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Mount Tamalpais West Point loop from Larkspur offers a truly epic mountain biking experience, taking you through diverse terrain from cool redwood forests to open chaparral. As you climb, you'll be treated to increasingly incredible views over the San Francisco Bay Area, with the panoramic vistas from West Point being a major highlight. This difficult 23.6-mile (37.9 km) route with 3130 feet (954 metres) of elevation gain is a demanding ride, but the scenery and varied trails make it incredibly rewarding.
To tackle this route, you'll need to plan your connection from Larkspur to the main Mount Tamalpais trail system, which might involve some road cycling or linking up with fire roads. While specific parking in Larkspur isn't outlined, ensure you check for available trailheads and parking options nearby. Given the significant distance and elevation, starting early in the day is advisable, especially on warmer days, to allow ample time for the 3 hours and 42 minutes estimated duration.
Mount Tamalpais holds a special place in mountain biking history, recognized as the birthplace of the sport. Early pioneers modified bikes on its slopes, creating the
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If you're seeking a mountain biking adventure that combines serious climbs with some of the Bay Area's most iconic views, the Pantoll Road loop from Mill Valley delivers. This challenging 19.5-mile (31.4 km) ride, with its 2943 feet (897 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a dynamic landscape of paved roads, fire roads, and occasional singletrack, all while offering glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco skyline. Expect a workout over its estimated 3 hours and 4 minutes, but the diverse terrain and stunning vistas make it a truly rewarding moderate-difficulty experience.
Starting from Mill Valley, the route utilizes Pantoll Road, which is shared with cars, though a new car-free Easy Grade Trail is in the works to improve safety for cyclists. Be aware that some singletrack sections, like the Coast View Trail, can be rutted and technical. The Pantoll Ranger Station is a good spot to pause and use facilities, and it's always wise to check current trail conditions before heading out.
This loop serves as an excellent gateway to the varied terrain of Mount Tamalpais State Park, renowned for its spectacular overlooks. The historic West Point Inn, a century-old former hotel, stands as a notable landmark along the way, offering a unique stop with views from its porch. The sheer variety of riding surfaces and the consistent reward of breathtaking scenery make this a standout route in the region.
Details
Informations
Distance 2.12 km
Uphill 240 m
Downhill 80 m
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