About
Length (round trip)0.2 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Elevation gainFlat
Typical time15 min
TrailheadChimney Rock Parking Lot, Point Reyes National Seashore
ParkingThe Elephant Seal Overlook is a short walk from the Chimney Rock Trailhead , which is located at the eastern end of the Point Reyes Headlands. Allow 45 minutes drive time fromBear Valleyto the Chimney Rock parking lot. Directions to Bear Valley Directions from Bear Valley to Chimney Rock Parking Lot
SurfacePaved
Best seasonh2>Winter <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 cool.</p>...
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTo reach the Elephant Seal Overlook, park in the Chimney Rock Trailhead parking lot and follow the path/driveway from the parking lot northeast toward the bay as it descends about 50 feet (15 meters) over a distance of about 500 feet (150 meters). (This drivewayis closed to privately-owned vehicles.) The driveway is composed of asphalt, which has degraded and has become potholed in places. The actual Elephant S...
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🦌 Wildlife

Distance to the Elephant Seal Overlook: 0.5 mi. (800 m) roundtrip From the Chimney Rock parking lot/trailhead , follow the driveway downhill (on foot; the driveway is closed to visitors' vehicles) and to the left. After 400 feet (120 meters), turn off of the paved driveway onto the relatively level gravel path. The path travels along the bluff top with views of Drakes Bay and Drakes Beach before terminating at the Elephant Seal Overlook . Visit our Elephant Seals and Viewing Elephant Seals for more information. This route description alone is not a substitute for a trail map. Print out the park's Chimney Rock Area Map (125 KB PDF) before your visit, or pick up a park map or hiking map 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 Elephant Seal Overlook Trail. Visit the park's Pets page to learn where pets are welcome at Point Reyes National Seashore. All ages.
Location

Chimney Rock Parking Lot, 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.