About
Length (round trip)2.8 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Typical time1 hr 15 min
TrailheadAbbotts Lagoon Trailhead, Point Reyes National Seashore
ParkingThe trailhead for this hike is located along Pierce Point Road. Allow 25 minutes driving time from Bear Valley to the Abbotts Lagoon Trailhead . Directions to Bear Valley Directions from Bear Valley to Abbotts Lagoon Trailhead
SurfaceSand
Best season<h2>Winter</h2> <p>The heaviest rainfall occurs in the winter months. Come prepared for rain and drizzle to possibly last for several days. In between winter rains, it is often sunny, calm, and coo...
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityA gentle, soil-cemented trail leads 0.25 miles (400 meters) to an overlook of the lagoon. Beyond this point the trail is packed dirt, typically two or three feet in width. Rain and heavy foot traffic have created ruts in some places. After the footbridge the trail turns to sand, and is likely impassable without a beach-specific wheelchair. Restrooms at the trailhead are accessible and there are two designated parking spaces.
What you'll see 🏞️ Lake🌊 River or creek🌼 Wildflowers🦌 Wildlife

Distance: 2.8 mi. (4.5 km) roundtrip Abbotts Lagoon is known for fantastic birding opportunities (particularly in the fall and winter), and beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Abbotts Lagoon is actually a series of three coastal lagoons. The upper (easternmost) lagoon is the smallest and contains the freshest water; the lower (westernmost) lagoon is the largest and saltiest. The beginning of this trail is an easy stroll past pastures and through coastal scrub before skirting along the southern edge of the middle lagoon. After 0.9 miles (1.5 km), you will arrive at a footbridge that crosses a short stream that connects the middle and lower lagoons. From this point, continue for an extra 0.5 miles (800 meters) along the north edge of the lower lagoon andamidthe sand dunes to arrive at the Point ReyesBeach (aka the Great Beach). Return via the same trail. Be advised thatbeyond the footbridge, the trail enters the Phillip Burton Wilderness and the trail is considered to be unmaintained. Take note of your surroundings before exploring the beach or the lagoon area so you can ensure you'll be able to find the trail again for your return trip. Please be respectful of fragile coastal dune vegetation. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, hiking south of Abbotts Lagoon on the Great Beach is prohibited on weekends and holidays to protect nesting western snowy plovers . Sneaker waves and strong coastal surf are just a few of the hazards of which visitors should be aware while visiting Point Reyes beaches. Beaches may be closed at various times of the year to protect park wildlife and visitors alike. Please visit Point Reyes National Seashore's Current Conditions page to learn about any current beach closures. This route description alone is not a substitute for a trail map. Print out the park's North Districttrail map (3,409 KB PDF) before your visit, or pick one up at a visitor center on your way. Always check current conditions before heading out into the park and familiarize yourself with park regulations . Please practice Leave No Trace principles. Visit the park's Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore page for hiking tips and information about trail etiquette and safety. Visit the park's Trail Advisories and Closures page for current information about closed trails, trails blocked by trees, or other temporary hazards or advisories.

Tips
Point Reyes National Seashore is open for day-hiking from 6 am to midnight. Pets are prohibited on the Abbotts Lagoon Trail. Visit the park's Pets page to learn where pets are welcome at Point Reyes National Seashore. All ages.
Location

Abbotts Lagoon Trailhead, Point Reyes National Seashore

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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.