Wine & Waves: Muir Beach ridge hike & lawn drinks at the Inn

Time for another Marin classic, starting with the waves at Muir Beach and winding down with wine at a beautiful inn. We will hike a seldom-hiked ridge trail with constant ocean views, and end at a one-of-a-kind English-style Inn to celebrate and socialize on their giant lawn--they encourage this!

THE HIKE
We'll hike from the Muir Beach parking lot 5 minutes to the Diaz Ridge trail head. The out-and-back 6.1-mile trail begins quickly with a steady uphill climb. There are very few trees on the trail, so the views back to the ocean and beach below are impressive, plus views north to Mt Tam and south to the Marin Headlands. After 1.5 miles the trail levels out and more views open up. We'll hit the east trailhead at the Panoramic Highway at 3.3 miles, and then turn around to head almost all downhill :) directly to the Inn to celebrate. We'll keep a steady pace going so we can get our hearts going a bit and break a small sweat. The ocean views (and wine on the lawn) will motivate us.

Facts & Figures:

• 6.7 miles round trip on an out-and-back series of trails. Expect ~ 3 hours. Little cover from the sun.
• 1,089 foot elevation gain (another 1K+ hike--nice job, us!)
• Mostly single-track trails with good footing

THE HAPPY HOUR

• The Pelican Inn is definitely special. First, it's the only business in the tiny town of Muir Beach. Second, it's beautiful inside and out. And third, and most important, they have a perfect outdoor lawn with no seats where everyone spreads out a blanket and picnics.
• They offer a small selection of tasty food (fish & chips, Guinness stew, shepherd's pie, etc.) that they'll deliver right to your blanket.
• They have a surprisingly good wine, cocktail, and draft selection for a small place.
• They take credit cards
• Throw a blanket in your car if you think of it

We'll stay for a round or two. It's a winding road back, so you must arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation if you plan to stay longer. WHAT TO BRING
At least 1 liter of water, snacks (sugar and salty are good for hiking), sunscreen, an extra layer for the ever-present wind, and sneakers or hiking boots.

IMPORTANT NOTES

• Pre-Reqs: Please join only if you have previous hiking experience, or are comfortable with continued exercise and uphill climbing in the sun for 2-3 hours. We will try hard to keep the group together. It's all about having a good time!
  *Only RSVP if you're sure you can make it, and update your RSVP asap if plans change. This is important! We limit the number for each hike for everyone's enjoyment, so if you no-show, other people can't go, and you'll make Ken and Brian cry. :(
• You probably won't have cell service at the Inn so plan accordingly.
• There is a bathroom at the parking area, but no water.
• If you want to bring guests, have them join the group and RSVP so we know who's coming. Thanks! See you on the trail, and at the bar afterwards :)