Above the Fog on Mount Tam

Earlier in the week the forecast called for blazing sunshine and warm temps for the entire Bay Area over the weekend. Instead most locations experienced a gray weekend as moisture trapped under a strong ridge of high pressure produced widespread fog and stratus. In other words, the forecast was a bust!

However, it was a different story at parts of the  coast and higher elevations which were above the stratus layer that hovered between 1,500 to 1,600 feet all weekend. At these locations, the sunny and warm forecast verified. In search of sunshine I first hiked Black Mountain on Saturday on the Peninsula and then one of my favorite parks, Mount Tamalpais, on Sunday. The classic Steep Ravine-Matt Davis loop was the hike of choice and sunset was from the top of the ridge near Rock Springs. The Steep Ravine-Matt Davis loop showcases much of what Mount Tamalpais has to offer – lush redwood forest, sweeping coastal views, rolling meadows, and fantastic single track. I also recommend an out-and-back along the Coastal trail where the mountainside becomes steeper and the views of Stinson Beach more expansive.  Head out for as long as you desire and return back to the Matt Davis descent or continue on to the Willow Camp Trail for an alternative descent back down to Stinson Beach. From sunbursts, to lush forest, to clear views, the photography along the hike was delightful.

Sunset from the ridge about 200 feet above the stratus layer was equally amazing. Clouds and fog always adds a different dimension to the photography with their intricacy and the fact that they are constantly changing. No two photos are ever the exact same and this is why I call it “fog play”! A complete gallery can be found here. I’ve posted some of my favorite photos below, which you can click for a larger image.

And… there is always a need for a panorama!

Dozens more photos in the complete gallery here.