Best Flat Hikes in Marin: Tennessee Valley Trail

Hello flat-hike lovers and welcome to Tennessee Valley Trail in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This trail follows our “no elevation and no compromises” rule — on this 3.6 mile out-and-back flat hike you’ll immerse in classic beautiful Bay Area landscape on your way to a pocket beach on the Pacific. Bonus? This trailhead is only a 10 minute drive from Acqua Hotel, 15 minutes from Mill Valley Inn, and 20 minutes from Waters Edge Hotel.

Tennessee Valley Trail: What to Know

The how-to on this is pretty easy. Set your GPS to Tennessee Valley Trailhead. You’ll drive on Tennessee Valley Road until you come to a parking lot (with restrooms). If there isn’t a spot right away circle the lot because there’s frequent turn-over. If you can’t find a spot in the lot, you can park roadside.

Pro-Tips:

• Go before 10am or after 3pm to beat the crowd, this trail is a local’s favorite

• Bring your own water, there are not water facilities on the trail

• There is one restroom in the parking lot, and one just before you reach the beach

• Plan about 2 hours round trip

Tennessee Valley Trail: The Flat Hike Option

The first portion of the trail is flat, wide, and paved. When you hit a fork in the trail you do have the option of taking the high-road. That’s the upper trail on the right. To keep it flat, take the Lower Tennessee Valley Trail on left. When you come to the end of the lower trail, you’ll take a left to head towards the beach.

Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife — coyotes, bobcats, deer, and owls are known to walk or fly through the scene.

Before you head back, consider going up to the Lookout Point. Yes, we said UP! It’s a well-marked trail with stairs, and even if you’re pokey, it’s only a 10 minute walk. The views are WORTH IT.

p.s. Please stay away from the cliff’s edge!

More Flat Hikes in our Marin County Travel Guide: Best Flat Hikes In Marin

See you out there!