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Writer's pictureTONI DEE

The Dipsea trail - Marin County's gem.

Updated: Nov 19, 2023

Most Marin residents have heard of the Dipsea trail and have probably hiked all or part of it, but did you know...?


  • From the dip of Mill Valley to the sea at Stinson Beach. Dipsea is one of the area's most know mash-ups of words.


  • Originally called Lone Tree trail, It first appeared on the Mt. Tamalpais hikers' map in 1898.

  • It is considered to be one of the most beautiful trails in the world.


  • It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on June 4, 2010.


  • The official Dipsea trail is 7.4 miles from Mill Valley Old Mill Park to Stinson beach.


  • I have seen it labeled as moderate and challenging. It is what you make of it... You want intense - run it, add a backpack or do it both ways! Double Dipsea.

  • If you've got some time, hike it and stop to enjoy the breathtaking views and scenery along the way.


  • You can start the trail from several points if you are not in the mood to do the entire trek.


  • The beginning of the trail in Mill Valley has 688 stair steps up.


  • You will wind through rustic neighborhoods, fairytale-like forests, coastal landscapes, and breathtaking views. You will travel through many sub-climates and encounter a large variety of flora, fauna and animals.

  • After going up the portion of the trail called Cardiac, you reach 1,360 feet, the highest point.

  • There is a water fountain at the top.


  • The 7.4-mile Dipsea Trail race has been run annually since 1905.


  • It is the oldest cross-country race and the second oldest foot race in the US.


  • The DipSea race has happend once a year on the second Sunday in June since 1983.


  • With a 1,500-person limit, runners come from all over the world, but the entry process favors local competitors since it is a Northern California race.


  • The 112th Annual Dipsea will be on Sunday, June 11th, 2023 at 8:00 am.


  • 13.7 mile Double Dipsea race has been run annually since 1970


  • August 27, 2022, is the 52 Annual running of the Double Dipsea race.

Hopefully, we can all get out and enjoy this national treasure in our backyard. #dipsea #dipseatrail #dipseahike #dipseamarin #marintrails #fitness #health #hiking #hike #trails #marincounty #marintrails





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