Friends of Mt Tam

Walking Mt. Tam: The Winter Edition
2025-01-11 09:30 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Pantoll Campground Parking, 6456 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA, 2 Panoramic Hwy, United States
Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe.
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than they seek.” — John Muir
Winter is a special time to walk on Mt. Tam – the water is flowing, the hills turn green and the air is fresh and crisp. This hike will provide a little bit of everything. Sweeping vistas. Tree covered pathways. And stops at the Mountain Theater and West Point Inn. During this hike you will also learn a little bit about their rich history, connection and what happens here today.
HIKE
Start at Pantoll Parking Lot; Old Mine Trail to Mountain Theater; Rock Spring Trail to West Point Inn; Old Stage Road to Pantoll Parking Lot
Distance (mi): 4.5. Elevation Gain (ft): 500. Moderate. *This hike is limited to 12 people.*

First Day Hike
2025-01-01 09:15 - 13:00 | Rock Spring Trailhead, W Ridgecrest Blvd, Stinson Beach, CA 94970, USA, 2 Ridgecrest Rd, United States
Sponsored by Friends of Mt Tam and California Alpine Club

Where: Rock Spring Parking Lot

When: January 1, 2025

Time: 9:15am to 2pm

Parking: Parking in this lot is free. Overflow parking is available in the Quarry parking lot by the Mountain Theater.

What to expect: This annual event hike is actually multiple hikes! All hike routes are round trip from Rock Spring to the East Peak Gravity Car Barn. From there, participants can hang out, hike the short distance to the summit, or take a stroll on the Verna Dunshee loop trail around the summit. All routes traverse through beautiful, mossy woodlands and iconic chaparral up to sweeping panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Participants can choose from moderate to strenuous routes. Those wanting an easier hike or walk can drive to East Peak (parking is $8 per vehicle), independently enjoy the short trail to the summit or the accessible Verna Dunshee loop trail, and chat with volunteer docents at the Gravity Car Barn.

Length of hike: Depending on route, the hike is 6-8 miles round trip with 500-1000 feet of elevation gain. The Plankwalk Trail from the East Peak Visitor Center to the summit is 0.6 miles round trip with about 225 feet of elevation gain. The Verna Dunshee loop trail at East Peak is 0.7 miles long with minimal elevation changes.

Preparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and dress in layers. Snacks and beverages will be available at East Peak, but participants should still carry drinking water and snacks.

CANCELLED - BAD WEATHER "Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe
2024-12-14 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
“Methinks that the moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow!” -Thoreau.
Science has proven what people have known for ages –walking in nature is one of the best ways to reset and connect with your creative mind. This walk will begin in silence as we trade asphalt for dirt and fall into the rhythm of the day. What happens next is up to you and the mountain.
HIKE ROUTE
Start at Pantoll Parking Lot; Old Mine Trail to Mountain Theater; Rock Spring Trail to West Point Inn; Old Stage Road to Pantoll Parking Lot
Distance (mi): 4.5. Elevation Gain (ft): 500. Moderate.
*This hike is limited to 12 people.*
MEET: Pantoll Parking Area
DEPARTURE: 9am Departure. Group should return no later than 1:30pm
NO REGISTRATION OR SIGN UP NECCESSARY. Show up early though – This hike is limited to 12 people.
CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam
PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving 15 minutes early to find parking. Certain parking areas require a $8 fee (Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak). Bring exact change!
WATER: Bring at least two bottles of water on hot days. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.
FOOD: Unless stated otherwise in the hike description, there will not be a formal lunch stop. Bring your own snacks.
PROTECTION: Ticks, mosquitoes, horse flies and yellow jackets are present, but not abundant.
STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers and running shoes are not recommended.
HIKE DOCENTS have been trained under the California State Parks Volunteers In the Park Program (VIPP).

FMT Member Holiday Party
2024-12-08 18:00 - 21:00, 2023-12-07 18:00 - 21:00
Annual Holiday Party for FMT Members.
More Details Soon!

East Peak Gravity Car Barn Open
2024-12-07 12:00 - 16:00, 2023-12-08 12:00 - 16:00 | Mt Tamalpais East Peak, Mt. Tam Gravity Car Barn, Mill Valley, 94941, United States
State Park Volunteer docents at the Gravity Car Barn Museum share their love of the mountain’s rich history. Relive the past by learning how train passengers used to coast down the mountain.
You’ll also find:

Interpretive displays to help connect visitors with the cultural resources found at the park.
Video documentary for your enjoyment
Historic photos and memorabilia – train tickets, old tavern menus, and more!

"Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe
2024-10-26 09:00 - 13:30, 2024-09-14 09:00 - 13:30, 2024-08-10 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais

Mt Tamalpais State Park Science Quest Day
2024-10-05
A free all-day event showcasing the unique sciences of Mt Tam State Park. Expert guides in Flora, Fauna, Geology, and Astronomy will provide in person experiences to highlight how science can deepen our understanding of our environment.
There will be a very limited number of slots available for each event. Friends of Mt Tam members will get priority access!
Stay tuned for more details!

Annual FMT Member and Volunteer Appreciation Picnic
2024-09-28 13:00 - 15:00
Friends of Mt. Tam Annual Picnic
Location of event: Madrone Grove, across from the Mountain Theatre
(Quarry Lot near the Mt. Theater may offer more parking spots)

Visit Green Gulch: its Zen center and its organic farm.
2024-09-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Dias Ridge, Mt Tamalpais
Distance: 7.6 miles with about 1000 ft of elevation change
Pace: easy
Bring lunch
Trails: Dias trailhead (off Panoramic) to Miwok to Coyote Ridge to Green Gulch to Golden Gate Stables to Dias Ridge to Dias trailhead (Panoramic)

Sound Summit 2024
2024-09-07 | Cushing Memorial Amphitheater, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA, 2 Cushing Dr, United States
Not a Friends of Mt Tam event, but we know many members like to attend

Have a mid-day break on Tam including a lunch with hummingbirds
2024-09-04 11:30 - 13:00 | Mountain Home Inn, 810 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Distance: 4 miles with 800 ft of elevation gain
Pace: Easy
Bring snack
Trails: Mt Home parking to Hogback to Matt Davis to Nora to Old Railroad grade to Hogback to Mt Home parking

Celebrate Juneteenth with a spin on Tam
2024-06-19 13:00 - 17:00 | Mountain Home Inn, 810 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Join Franklin Young for this great hike!
Distance: 3 miles with 400 ft of elevation change
Pace: Easy
Bring snack
Trails: Mt Home parking to Hogback to Hoo Koo E Koo to Double Bow Knot to Gravity car grade to Mt Home parking

Check on Barnatte and Owliver
2024-06-15 09:00 - 13:00 | Dias Rdge, Mt Tamalpais
Join Franklin Young for this great hike!
Check on Barnatte and Owliver. Golden Gate Dairy has been the nesting ground for barn owls for over 35 years. We could possibly meet the latest batch of baby owls. Along the way, we’ll look for and enjoy the last of the wildflowers.
Distance: 7 miles with about 1000 ft of elevation change
Pace: Easy
Bring lunch
Trails: Dias trailhead (off Panoramic) to Miwok to Redwood Creek to Muir Beach to Dias Ridge to Dias trailhead (Panoramic)

"Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe
2024-06-08 09:00 - 13:30, 2024-03-09 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than (they) seek.” – John Muir
Science has proven what people have known for ages –walking in nature is one of the best ways to reset and connect with your creative mind. This walk will begin in silence as we trade asphalt for dirt and fall into the rhythm of the day. What happens next is up to you and the mountain.
HIKE ROUTE
Start at Pantoll Parking Lot; Old Mine Trail to Mountain Theater; Rock Spring Trail to West Point Inn; Old Stage Road to Pantoll Parking Lot
Distance (mi): 4.5. Elevation Gain (ft): 500. Moderate.
*This hike is limited to 12 people.*
MEET: Pantoll Parking Area
DEPARTURE: 9am Departure. Group should return no later than 1:30pm
NO REGISTRATION OR SIGN UP NECCESSARY. Show up early though – This hike is limited to 12 people.
CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam
PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving 15 minutes early to find parking. Certain parking areas require a $8 fee (Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak). Bring exact change!
WATER: Bring at least two bottles of water on hot days. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.
FOOD: Unless stated otherwise in the hike description, there will not be a formal lunch stop. Bring your own snacks.
PROTECTION: Ticks, mosquitoes, horse flies and yellow jackets are present, but not abundant.
STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers and running shoes are not recommended.
HIKE DOCENTS have been trained under the California State Parks Volunteers In the Park Program (VIPP).

Friends of Mt Tam Astronomy Night on the Mountain
2024-05-11 19:30 - 22:30 | Rock Spring Parking Lot
In partnership with SFAA (San Francisco Amateur Astronomers).
Limited Slots – Friends of Mt Tam Members will get first access
Stay tuned for more details!

"Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe (Moved to April 27)
2024-04-27 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais

Annual FMT Member Meeting (**New Date**)
2024-03-30 09:00 - 12:00 | California Alpine Club, 730 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA, 2 Panoramic Hwy, United States
Light Breakfast
Guest Speakers
Updates on Friends of Mt Tam
More Details Soon!

What do you do at Double Bow Knot? Wait for the train!
2024-03-27 16:00 - 18:30 | Mt Home parking lot, Mt Tamalpais
Join Franklin Young for this great hike!
Distance: 4 miles with 500 ft of elevation change
Pace: easy
Bring snack
Trails: Hogback to Hoo Koo E Koo to Double Bow Knot to Gravity car grade to Mt Home

Let's go to the Beach, to Stinson Beach!
2024-03-24 09:00 - 13:00 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
Join Franklin Young for this great hike!
Distance: 7 miles with over 2500 ft of elevation change
Pace: Easy
Bring lunch
Trails: Steep Ravine to Dipsea to Stinson Beach to Matt Davis to Pantoll

"Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe
2024-01-27 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
Moved to January 27 due to Weather!
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than (they) seek.” – John Muir
Science has proven what people have known for ages –walking in nature is one of the best ways to reset and connect with your creative mind. This walk will begin in silence as we trade asphalt for dirt and fall into the rhythm of the day. What happens next is up to you and the mountain.
HIKE ROUTE
Start at Pantoll Parking Lot; Old Mine Trail to Mountain Theater; Rock Spring Trail to West Point Inn; Old Stage Road to Pantoll Parking Lot
Distance (mi): 4.5. Elevation Gain (ft): 500. Moderate.
*This hike is limited to 12 people.*
MEET: Pantoll Parking Area
DEPARTURE: 9am Departure. Group should return no later than 1:30pm
NO REGISTRATION OR SIGN UP NECCESSARY. Show up early though – This hike is limited to 12 people.
CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam
PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving 15 minutes early to find parking. Certain parking areas require a $8 fee (Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak). Bring exact change!
WATER: Bring at least two bottles of water on hot days. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.
FOOD: Unless stated otherwise in the hike description, there will not be a formal lunch stop. Bring your own snacks.
PROTECTION: Ticks, mosquitoes, horse flies and yellow jackets are present, but not abundant.
STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers and running shoes are not recommended.
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Visitors need to be fully prepared to provide for all of their own needs, including a map (printed or downloaded), hand sanitizer, tissues, and first aid supplies.
HIKE DOCENTS have been trained under the California State Parks Volunteers In the Park Program (VIPP).

First Day Hike
2024-01-01 09:15 - 13:00 | Rock Spring Trailhead, W Ridgecrest Blvd, Stinson Beach, CA 94970, USA, 2 Ridgecrest Rd, United States
Sponsored by Friends of Mt Tam and California Alpine Club

Where: Rock Spring parking lot

When: January 1, 2024

Time: 9am to 2pm*

Parking: Parking in this lot is free. Overflow parking is available in the Quarry parking lot by the Mountain Theater.

What to expect: This annual event hike is actually multiple hikes! All hike routes are round trip from Rock Spring to the East Peak Gravity Car Barn. From there, participants can hang out, hike the short distance to the summit, or take a stroll on the Verna Dunshee loop trail around the summit. All routes traverse through beautiful, mossy woodlands and iconic chaparral up to sweeping panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Participants can choose from moderate to strenuous routes. Those wanting an easier hike or walk can drive to East Peak (parking is $8 per vehicle), independently enjoy the short trail to the summit or the accessible Verna Dunshee loop trail, and chat with volunteer docents at the Gravity Car Barn.

Length of hike: Depending on route, the hike is 6-8 miles round trip with 500-1000 feet of elevation gain. The Plankwalk Trail from the East Peak Visitor Center to the summit is 0.6 miles round trip with about 225 feet of elevation gain. The Verna Dunshee loop trail at East Peak is 0.7 miles long with minimal elevation changes.

Preparation: Participants should wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and dress in layers. Snacks and beverages will be available at East Peak, but participants should still carry drinking water and snacks.

Mt Tam in the 1930's: How trains disappeared and mountain plays flourished
2023-12-09 09:00 - 13:00 | Bootjack Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
Join Franklin Young for this great hike!
Hike Route: Bootjack, Easy Grade, Mt Theater, Rock Spring trail, West Point Inn, Nora, Matt Davis
About 4 miles and 1000 ft in elevation change
Snack stop at West Point Inn

"Walking Mt. Tam: Trails of Creativity" - Interpretive hike with docent Caryn Lowe
2023-12-02 09:00 - 13:30, 2023-11-04 09:00 - 13:30 | Pantoll Parking Lot, Mt Tamalpais
“In every walk with nature one receives far more than (they) seek.” – John Muir
Science has proven what people have known for ages –walking in nature is one of the best ways to reset and connect with your creative mind. This walk will begin in silence as we trade asphalt for dirt and fall into the rhythm of the day. What happens next is up to you and the mountain.
HIKE ROUTE
Start at Pantoll Parking Lot; Old Mine Trail to Mountain Theater; Rock Spring Trail to West Point Inn; Old Stage Road to Pantoll Parking Lot
Distance (mi): 4.5. Elevation Gain (ft): 500. Moderate.
*This hike is limited to 12 people.*
MEET: Pantoll Parking Area
DEPARTURE: 9am Departure. Group should return no later than 1:30pm
NO REGISTRATION OR SIGN UP NECCESSARY. Show up early though – This hike is limited to 12 people.
CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam
PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving 15 minutes early to find parking. Certain parking areas require a $8 fee (Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak). Bring exact change!
WATER: Bring at least two bottles of water on hot days. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.
FOOD: Unless stated otherwise in the hike description, there will not be a formal lunch stop. Bring your own snacks.
PROTECTION: Ticks, mosquitoes, horse flies and yellow jackets are present, but not abundant.
STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers and running shoes are not recommended.
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Visitors need to be fully prepared to provide for all of their own needs, including a map (printed or downloaded), hand sanitizer, tissues, and first aid supplies.
HIKE DOCENTS have been trained under the California State Parks Volunteers In the Park Program (VIPP).
