Chimney Rock caps the easternmost extension of the Point Reyes Peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets Drakes Bay. The headland is renowned for spring wildflowers, elephant seal colonies and seasonal whale watching. Clear days afford sweeping views of Drakes Beach, Drakes Estero, Limantour Beach and the Farallon Islands.

The Headlands Overlook Trail affords some of the best views in Point Reyes

The trail ends at an overlook of Chimney Rock, seen here off shore

Seals enjoy the afternoon sun at one of the protected beaches beneath the headlands

A Peregrine Falcon balances in heavy winds on the edge of the headlands

Looking north up the coast as the afternoon sun begins to set

A pod of very happy seals are content to huddle closely as high tide comes in

A thin strip of headland is all that separates the Pacific Ocean (left) from Drakes Bay (right)

The Headlands Overlook Trail provides an alternate route to and from the Chimney Rock Overlook

Peregrine Falcon resting off the Headlands Overlook Trail

Eroding headlands and loose ground make it dangerous to deviate from this cliff-side trail

There are a few natural rock arches visible from the trail

A seal waves hello from the beach below the Headlands Overlook Trail

Virutally all the beaches beneath the trail to Chimney Rock play home to harbor and elephant seals

The trail to Chimney Rock cuts straight through the beautiful Point Reyes Headlands

Chimney Rock, located just off shore from the end of the trail

A Peregrine Falcon prepares to take flight into the strong ocean front winds