Introducing Mt Tamalpais State Park
Standing guard over Marin County, majestic Mt Tamalpais (Mt Tam) has breathtaking 360-degree views of ocean, bay and hills rolling into the distance. The rich, natural beauty of 2571ft Mt Tam and the surrounding area is inspiring - especially considering that it lies within an hour’s drive from one of the state’s largest metropolitan areas.
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Mt Tamalpais State Park was formed in 1930, partly from land donated by Congressman and naturalist William Kent (who also donated the land that became Muir Woods National Monument in 1907). Its 6300 acres are home to deer, foxes, bobcats and many miles of hiking and biking trails.
Mt Tam was a sacred place to the coastal Miwok people for thousands of years before the arrival of European and American settlers. By the late 19th century, San Franciscans were escaping the bustle of the city with all-day outings on the mountain, and in 1896 the ‘world’s crookedest railroad’ (281 turns) was completed from Mill Valley to the summit. Though the railroad was closed in 1930, Old Railroad Grade is today one of Mt Tam’s most popular and scenic hiking and biking paths.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
