By Whitney Butler

 

From atop Mount Tamalpais, gray whales can be seen in migratory patterns, as seal pups learn to swim where the sand meets the surf. In the grasslands near the ridgeline, tule elk graze peacefully. Two-thousand-year-old redwoods call travelers to explore their ancient past near the rugged Pacific coastline, just a short drive north from San Francisco.

You might plan a visit to Marin County to take advantage of world-class dining and exciting evening entertainment, but its most breathtaking hallmarks are its natural backdrop and scenic splendor.

Marin’s biodiversity is in a class all its own—supporting a variety of Northern California ecosystems, including redwood forests, savannas, salt marshes and coastal grasslands.

Experience this bounty for one-of-a-kind moments you’ll remember well after your visit to Marin County through a personalized hiking tour. Here are a few of our favorites:

 

Outdoors in Point Reyes

For an intimate view of tule elk, wildflowers, or the Point Reyes tidepools, don’t miss a chance to connect with the team at Blue Waters Kayaking.

Led by naturalist guides, you’ll explore various ecosystems within the Point Reyes National Seashore. Important wildlife events occur here all year long, including the mating of harbor and elephant seals, as well as migratory bird watching.

No matter when you plan your visit, the guides at Blue Waters Kayaking will plan the perfect outdoor adventure. There are several packages to choose from, with discounts for large groups, and free admission for children 7 and under.

This is a great family escape or personal adventure. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a custom experience kayaking the breathtaking coastline at Point Reyes National Seashore.

 

Coastal Walkers

For an adventure amongst California’s world-famous redwoods or unparalleled views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, treat yourself to a half-day walking tour with the experts at Coastal Walkers. 

The six-mile long Muir Woods and Mt. Tamalpais tour features the quiet, fern-lined trails of Mt. Tamalpais for coveted access to the Muir Woods National Monument without the crowds. While the Sausalito to the Golden Gate Overlook tour follows a coastal route along the waterfront for spectacular views of Angel Island, Alcatraz, the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge’s north tower.

With tours led by native San Franciscans and trips limited to 10 walkers or less, you’ll get an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime scoop on local geography, wildlife, history and lore.

 

Point Reyes Safaris

Wildlife can be enjoyed on most tours by coincidence; there’s an abundance of it here! But for outdoor hikers looking to get up close and personal with some of Marin’s rarest and most majestic creatures, Point Reyes Safaris is the best tour to take.

Your guide is a professional wildlife photographer and passionate California naturalist. Join him on a full-day excursion with your favorite camera and explore the various habitats within the Point Reyes National Seashore.

You’ll snap great shots of several species, including elk, birds of prey, mountain lions, long-tailed weasels, badgers and much more.

Your trip can be customized to your photographic interest, or tailored to your ability. And what better way to remember Marin than with a keepsake photograph you take yourself.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.