From Beach to Summit

No need to decide between a beach and a mountaintop—this hike includes both! Explore the stunning coastal scenery on this 6-mile out-and-back up Montara Mountain and into Rancho Corral de Tierra (protected from development and preserved by the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) and Golden Gate National Recreation Area).

From the parking lot, head up the Gray Whale Cove Trail, a winding path lined with colorful California coffeeberries. After 0.2 mile, turn left onto the unmarked path to begin the steep ascent up the mountain. At the intersection with Old San Pedro Mountain Road, stop to take a breather and soak up the views of the Pacific Ocean and the beaches far below.

Turn left onto the road, then bear right as it curves its way up the mountain. To the north, eagle-eyed hikers will be able to spot the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais. To the east, you can see the four peaks of Montara Mountain—North Peak, South Peak, Middle Peak, and Peak Mountain. The dramatic summits and valleys are offset by huge swaths of bright orange sticky monkey flowers.

Once atop the ridgeline, head toward the cluster of antennas, Montara Mountain’s high point: North Peak. The views up here are fantastic, from the deep green hills and ravines of Corral de Tierra to the stark oceanside cliffs. Snap a summit selfie, then retrace the path back down to the parking lot.

Before heading home, be sure to cross the street and descend the stairs to Gray Whale Cove Beach. Hikers can cool their feet in the waves, explore the rocky shoreline to the south, or get a close-up view of the famous Devil’s Slide bunker, a WWII relic situated precariously close to the cliff edge above.

The Gray Whale Cove Trail parking lot is located on Hwy. 1 in Pacifica. Map. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Bike-friendly and dog-friendly.

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner