Mt. Tamalpais Gravity Car Road Wildflower and Nature Photography Walk

Mt. Tamalpais Gravity Car Road Wildflower and Nature Photography Walk
Friday, May 1, 8am-10:30am
Caroline Christman and Marcos Gaxiola

Join us for an early morning walk to enjoy the scenic beauty of the eastern slopes of Mt. Tamalpais, learn some native plants, and practice nature photography along the way. This will be a space for people who enjoy nature and photography to come together, have fun, and hopefully learn something new or simply connect with other photographers.

On the walk, Caroline will point out some of the diverse plants found along the trail, from the Pacific starflower (Lysimachia latifolia) in the shade of the redwoods to the golden blooms of the peak rush-rose (Crocanthemum scoparium) in open chaparral. Marcos will share simple, approachable photography techniques for composition, working with natural light, and capturing close-up details using whatever camera you bring on walks. Though not a professional photographer, Marcos enjoys nature photography as a way to slow down, observe, and connect more deeply with the landscape. He has a particular interest in capturing textures, light, and small details like insects, and will share his enthusiasm and methods with the group.

The photography focus will primarily be on plants and flowers, while staying open to any wildlife or interesting moments we come across. Phone cameras are absolutely welcome; no special equipment is needed. Attendees should not purchase anything for this day but simply bring what they already have and feel comfortable carrying on a walk. Attendees are welcome to bring tripods if they have them. For those using phones, a small magnifying glass can help with getting closer to flower details, so that’s something to bring (or share) if you happen to have one. Marcos will also demonstrate a DIY method for diffusing harsh light using simple materials, which can be helpful in brighter conditions.

This will be a slow stroll along a level fire road with plenty of stops. We will start at the Gravity Car Fire Road trailhead (next to the Mountain Home Inn) and walk approximately 1 mile to the Double Bow Knot and return along the same path, for 2 miles total.

While there are no plant lists specific to this section of Mt. Tamalpais, there are plant lists for the larger area that are a good resource: Marin CNPS Old Stage Rd./West Point Inn/ Gravity Car Fire Road List; INaturalist Mt. Tamalpais State Park Plant List.

Meet at the Gravity Car Road Trailhead off of Panoramic Highway in Mill Valley. There is parking in the lot across from the Mountain Home Inn (810 Panoramic Highway), and additional parking along the first section of Gravity Car Road. Dress in layers and bring water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera!
Rain cancels; cancellations will be posted on Meetup.
Please:

• Sign the Waiver for Marin Chapter 2026, if you have not done so already.
• Practice clean trail etiquette. Pocket Guide – Every Step Counts and Cleanliness Tips for Hikers
• Sorry, no dogs on this trip.