Serving hikers, runners, bikers and equestrians, the Bear Valley Trail is one of Point Reyes’ most popular and versatile trails. It begins at the Bear Valley Visitor Center and runs south through a memorable sequence of towering fir, narrow riparian corridors, tangled chaparral and open coastal scrub to a scenic bluff with panoramic views of an expansive coastline. Carved from its base is the eponymous arch, accessible by nimble hikers at low tide.

Wildflowers frame views to the north from the Arch Rock Overlook

The Bear Valley Trail leads through a lush, green fir forest

Views north from the Arch Rock Overlook

Ferns are abundant within Bear Valley

Arch Rock, accessible at low tide

Looking through Arch Rock at a 'sea stack', a group of eroded rocks standing tall above the ocean

Banana Slugs, who need consistent moisture to survive, can be found on the Bear Valley Trail

Desne fog awaits hikers heading into Divide Meadow via the Bear Valley Trail

The informal trail to the arch can be dangerous - be careful of slippery and unstable footing

Runoff into the ocean forms small waterfalls on its way through Arch Rock into the Pacific

Hikers can walk through Arch Rock at low tide

Eroded headlands, brilliant wildflowers and morning fog combine for a surreal landscape

A Seagull rests on Arch Rock Overlook

Deer feed on Tule Grass near the Bear Valley Trailhead

Beautiful wildfowers carpet the area surrounding Arch Rock

Views south from the Arch Rock Overlook

Early morning fog slowly dissipates over Divide Meadow

Breaking waves consistently work to erode the Point Reyes Headlands

Just off shore sea stacks – vertical rock column remnants of eroded headlands

Alamere Falls - accessible at low tide via Wildcat Beach from Arch Rock