Point Reyes – Headlands

After the trail run through Bear Valley, we drove to the northern portion of Point Reyes National Seashore, which is drastically different from the southern portion. There is no forest and the hills are much smaller. A significant portion of the area near Drakes Bay is a saltwater estuary and marsh. At over 10 miles long, the Pt. Reyes Beach (aka the Great Beach) is an incredible expanse of uninterrupted sand and waves. At the tip of the headlands is the famous Pt. Reyes Lighthouse and the Chimney Rock Area with one of the largest colonies of Northern Elephant Seals resident on the beaches. The headlands area is also home to several historic dairy farm ranches that are still operational to this day. There are literally thousands of happy dairy cows roaming around. Finally the rugged Tomales Point is home to the famous Tule Elk Herd.  This time we explored the Chimney Rock area, the lighthouse, and Pt. Reyes Beach. Next time we will come back to check out Drakes Bay and Tomales Point – there is so much to see.