Wonderland in My Backyard (6.96 Miles)

“Don’t you know that everybody’s got a Fairyland of their own?” ―P.L. Travers, Mary Poppins

Sometimes when I think about where I live, I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming…

This photos are from a 6.96 mile loop hike with 1460 feet of elevation change and the most spectacular variety of microclimates I’ve ever encountered in such a short distance.

(Please scroll to the bottom of the page to view the route map and click on any image to see the album in LightBox.)

One of my favorite (and most regular) hikes….

The first steps on the Dipsea Trail from Stinson to Steep Ravine

I always feel like I am entering an enchanted forest at this part of the hike.

Looking back at Stinson Beach and the Pacific Ocean

Headed southeast on the Dipsea Trail toward Steep Ravine

Almost at the junction with the Steep Ravine Trail, here the Dipsea is lined with tiny forget-me-nots

The first part of the Steep Ravine Trail just after the junction with the Dipsea.

Stone steps going up the Steep Ravine Trail lined with ferns and mossy rocks

Much happier on the other side of the camera

One of many cascades along the Steep Ravine Trail

The Steep Ravine Trail does require some ladder climbing

Jim climbing the Steep Ravine ladder

I love how the trail goes right through a “fairy ring” of redwood trees.

Almost at Pan Toll where we can stop for lunch!

Love my old Tevas

Happy to take a lunch break at Pan Toll

Lunch!

Halfway through the hike and we’re doing great! It’s almost all downhill from here.

Through the forest on Matt Davis Trail headed southwest

Out of the woods on Matt Davis.

California poppies!

We’re not going up there today….

West on Matt Davis.

Poppies on Matt Davis headed west

Walking west on Matt Davis toward the Pacific Ocean

Headed back down Matt Davis to Stinson Beach