Panorama on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, California
Panorama on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, California

Abbotts Lagoon Trail hike

North Bay
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Bird watching bench on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaBull thistle on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaBoardwalk over the marsh on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaCow grazing through the fence on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaSand dunes on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaHawk hunting over Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaGarter snake on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaView of Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, CaliforniaShoreline on Abbotts Lagoon hike in North Bay of San Francisco, California

Abbotts Lagoon Trail hike

Distance: 3.2mi
Elevation: 56ft
Time: 1-1.5h

Difficulty Rating:

User Ratings:
9.9 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty

Abbotts Lagoon Trail is a fantastic nature walk for bird lovers and beach enthusiasts! After walking a flat trail, you can continue to walk along the pristine beach for as far as you’d like.

Abbotts Lagoon Trail Map

Getting there

Head for the Abbots Lagoon Trailhead, which is just past Evans Ranch. From Point Reyes Station, take Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and go right at the split onto Pierce Point Road. Follow this road for 3.4mi, the parking lot and trailhead is on the left.

I’ve done this 32 people have done this
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About

When to do

Year round

Backcountry Campsites

No

Toilets

Parking Lot

Family friendly

Yes

Route Signage

Good

Crowd Levels

Moderate

Route Type

Out and back


Abbotts Lagoon Trail
Elevation Graph


Route Description for Abbotts Lagoon Trail

From the parking lot at the Abbott’s Lagoon Trailhead, take the trail from the parking lot that heads west towards the water. The Abbotts Lagoon Trail is a clear trail and it does not split, so it is easy to follow.

As you hike on this trail, make sure to keep your eyes open for all the wildlife that is hiding around you. This is a popular bird-watchers hike.

As you come closer to the beach you cross a bridge over a small channel that connects the two sides of the lagoon. From here, walk down to the beach and enjoy the calm views.

Take some time to explore around the lagoon but don’t disturb the wildlife.

After you are done exploring the beach and Lagoon head back on the Abbotts Lagoon Trail and it will take you back to your car.

You will need to pack in your own water and any trash that you create during your hike must be packed out and disposed of in the trash cans in the parking lot.

Insider Hints

  • Bring binoculars, there are tons of birds to watch.

  • The last chance for gas is at Point Reyes Station about 10.0mi before the trailhead.

  • Keep your voice down as you approach the beach to avoid spooking the wildlife.

  • Scan the water carefully, Otters like to use the Lagoon to raise their newborn offspring!

Comments

Betty K. 4 years ago

Spectacular hike! This trail can be crowded, especially in the summer, with lots of lovers in the area.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Francine Robertson 4 years ago

Stunning scenery the whole way through. I would have to say it's a must do

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
2h 00m Time Taken
cindychu 4 years ago

The views in the Abbotts Lagoon Trail were inspiring in every way.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
2h 00m Time Taken
YashKumar 4 years ago

Easy to get to and not expensive.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
2h 00m Time Taken
MichaelShulman 4 years ago

The trail was easy to follow, and the views are spectacular.

10.0 Overall Rating
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1h 45m Time Taken
Nora T. 4 years ago

Peaceful hike. This was a trail with emerald green scenery that cuts through a wasteland-like lagoon, but leads you towards the Pacific Ocean.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
1h 30m Time Taken
Stumpyboots 4 years ago

Picturesque short trail with good wild life

9.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Kenny Walks 4 years ago

I would highly recommend this relatively easy hike. Beautiful scenery the whole way through.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
1h 30m Time Taken
James Barnes 4 years ago

Trail was in perfect condition. It's flat all the way and really awesome scenery. We really got to enjoy ourselves because It's not that crowded.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
Cheska Jane 4 years ago

The views are amazing. It didn’t disappoint.

10.0 Overall Rating
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27 Comments Show all

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