Excellent Point

Do a Beginner Friendly Mountain Bike Ride to Drakes Head in Point Reyes National Seashore

07.21.2021
Mountain bikers Estero Trail to Drakes Head in Point Reyes

Mountain biking and national parks usually don’t go together. But Point Reyes National Seashore has several mountain bike–friendly trails that are itching to be explored. Don’t expect technical or much singletrack—these trails are wide-open and good for beginner mountain bikers. For a fantastic ride with sweeping views of Drakes Estero and southern Point Reyes, make the 4.3-mile (one-way) ride out to Drakes Head.

mountain biker Point Reyes Estero Trail to Drakes Head

Mountain bikers at Drakes Head Point Reyes

Leaving from the Estero Trailhead, you’ll pedal through coastal grasslands and scrublands. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons cruising overhead. In about a mile you’ll cross over the Home Bay bridge and your first opportunity to see bat rays and all variety of water and shore birds like great blue herons, great egrets, and loons. Drakes Estero is where fresh and salt water mix, and the wildlife loves it! Continue on the fire road, crossing cattle guards and more wide-open views of Drakes Estero.

Mountain biker Estero Trail in Point Reyes

Mountain Biker on Drakes Head Trail Point Reyes

You’ll turn off for Drakes Head Trail, and your final 2.3 miles are more singletrack-ish, but not technical. Your destination is the end of the trail at Drakes Head, where you’ll have a tremendous view of Limantour Beach, Drakes Bay, and the Marin coastline. Have a picnic here and see if you can spy any leopard sharks or bat rays in the water below.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In Episode 35 "Height of Summer Adventures" Weekend Sherpa co-founders Brad and Holly talk about highlights of mountain biking to Drakes Head in Point Reyes.

Start your bike ride at the Estero Trailhead (map). No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View