Steep Ravine, Dipsea Trail & Matt Davis Loop

The storied Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis loop, famed for its varying climates and ecosystems, offers hikers an opportunity to traverse through misty redwood groves, climb sun-drenched ridges, and stroll beside cascading streams—all within the span of very do-able day hike.

The adventure begins at the Pantoll trailhead. You will descend via the Steep Ravine Trail, a well-worn path that feels plucked from a fairy tale. Shrouded by a canopy of towering redwoods and lush ferns, the trail meanders beside a babbling brook, complete with wooden ladders and bridges that add a charming touch to the already magical landscape.

As you leave the embrace of the Steep Ravine, the trail spills onto the historic Dipsea. Here, the world opens up to embrace the sky, the air tinged with the salt of the sea, and sweeping views that gaze out over the Pacific.

The loop concludes with an easy ascent via the Matt Davis Trail, a path that zigzags back towards the Pantoll Trailhead. Climbing the contours of Mount Tam, the trail is a vibrant mosaic where sun-filtered clearings reveal the expansive beauty of the coastline. With every upward step, the Matt Davis Trail offers a different perspective, showcasing the stunning contrast between the dense greenery below and the open skies above.

Completing the Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis loop is a trip through a microcosm of the area’s natural splendor. It’s a hike that presents both a physical challenge and a sensory feast, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the wild beauty that lies just footsteps from San Francisco’s hum.

Let’s uncover the secrets of this beloved trail…

Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis Hike

The Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis hiking trail includes…

• Giant redwoods and glorious redwood portals
• Wooden bridges and ladders
• A mix of forested and exposed hiking
• A short road walk
• Lots of switchbacks to help your legs
• An incredible mix of wild California coastal environments

A full breakdown is provided in the hike notes below, with 35 captivating photos.

Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis Hike Time

Allow 3-4 hours for this hike.

Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis Elevation gain

The elevation gain for this hike is 1550 feet (apx 475 meters).

Steep Ravine/Dipsea/Matt Davis Trail Notes & Gallery

This loop is most often started and finished at Stinson Beach. However, on this day, I chose to begin and end my hike at the top, at the Pantoll Trailhead in Mount Tamalpais State Park— which made it easy to get to Mount Tamalpais directly after. Big day for me!

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Similar Hikes

What a special hike. I would re-do this route again in a heartbeat. I hope you check it out and I hope you love it as much as I did. This hike has so many parts! If you want more redwoods, visit Muir Woods or the less touristy Reinhardt State Park. If you love arid chaparral terrain, Mount Diabolo might be for you, if you’re up to it! If you want coastal vibes, check out Año Nuevo or Tomales Point.

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The parent mountain for this hike is Mount Tamalpais.

If you do this hike, LMK how it went…