Located In:
Mill Valley.

Distance:
4.4 miles point to point; 8.8 miles out and back.

Difficulty Level:
Moderate.

Know Before You Go:
The hike from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach isn’t terribly difficult, but the steep descent down to the coast will become more challenging and tiresome on the way back up, so make sure you have some gas in the tank. There are also shuttles that will bring you back if the trek seems like too much. Wear shoes with traction, dress in layers, bring plenty of water and snacks, and practice Leave No Trace ethics.

Why We Love It:
When snow is piled high in the Sierra, great hiking is only a short drive away, and the Mill Valley/Muir Woods area has some of the best and most beautiful scenery.

Fuel Up:
When you walk 4.4 miles out of the woods directly to Breakers Café (stinsonbeachbreakerscafe.com), a quaint beachside eatery with a spacious heated patio, do you have to think twice? Seafood, tacos, and American fare all await—with cocktails and draft beers to boot. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

I used to think trekking poles were trite, until I started guiding professionally in Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile. Hiking the steep terrain daily for months taught me that the pros of poles outweigh the cons. Here are four reasons to consider using them.

1) Protect your knees on steep descents. Your knees will thank you for the added support.

2) Increase your speed and power. Having the extra push will make you stronger and faster, especially on uphill climbs.

3) Aid balance on uneven terrain. Having trekking poles is like an extra set of limbs; they especially come in handy crossing streams.

4) Improve your posture. Improving your posture will help your back, your endurance, and even assist in breathing, thus improving overall performance.

For more information, visit
alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bootjack-camp-to-stinson-beach.