About
Length0.9 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyEasy
Typical time33 min
TrailheadWoodpecker Nature Trailhead at Bear Valley, Point Reyes National Seashore
ParkingThe Woodpecker Trail shares a trailhead with the Bear Valley Trailhead . Instead of heading south along the Bear Valley Trail, the WoodpeckerTrail heads off to the west. Directions to Bear Valley To help reduce traffic congestion in the paved parking lot adjacent to the Bear Valley Visitor Center, please park your vehicle(s) in the gravel, trailhead/picnic area parking lot on the left (east) side of the access road close to the Bear Valley Trailhead. Parking is free. Download the Bear Valley...
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
AccessibilityThe Woodpecker Nature Trail is a relatively narrow (less than two feet wide [0.6 meters wide]) with a dirt substrate. There is a change of about 100 feet (30 meters) in elevation along the route of the trail, including some stairs. Within the forested part of the hike, tree roots pose as another obstacle.
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🌊 River or creek

Distance: 0.9 mi. (1.5 km) roundtrip The Woodpecker Nature Trail is a loop trail that explores the beautiful local forest and meadow ecosystems of Bear Valley. It will give you a taste of the rich biodiversity of this area. It combines open meadow, deep forest canopy, and a willow- and alder-lined creek. Along the way are vistas that show off the power of the San Andreas Fault to twist and stretch and thrust up the land creating lovely rolling hills and deep valleys. An open meadow on the route is an excellent spot for catching a glimpse of coyotes, bobcats, or herons patiently hunting for pocket gophers, deermice, and meadow voles. The Douglas fir and California bay laurel forest is dense and fragrant and resounds with bird calls. An interpretive trail guidedescribing some of the plants and animals you may see can be obtained at the trailhead or at the Bear Valley Visitor Center . The Woodpecker Trail begins at the Bear Valley Trailhead , at the south end of the Bear Valley Parking Lot. It exits the wooded section of the loop near the Morgan Horse Ranch . Download the Bear Valley Area Map . (427 KB PDF) Download the Woodpecker Trail Guide. (6,943 KB PDF) 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 daily for day-hikingfrom 6 am to midnight. Overnight parking is only permitted with a valid backcountry camping permit. Pets are prohibited on the Woodpecker Trail. Visit the park's Pets page to learn where pets are welcome at Point Reyes National Seashore. All ages.
Location

Woodpecker Nature Trailhead at Bear Valley, 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.