Haunted Hills & Coastal Thrills: Our Halloween Hike at Rodeo Beach!

Many of us look for exciting and unique ways to celebrate Halloween. As part of our group tradition, we embraced the great outdoors with a hike, and we chose Rodeo Beach for our fun day. This scenic trail not only offers stunning ocean views but also makes a perfect place to conclude the walk and connect with women over delicious food afterward.

The Starting Point: Rodeo Beach

Rodeo Beach, in the Marin Headlands, is the perfect starting point for our hike. The beach is renowned for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. Upon my arrival, we were greeted by the sound of crashing waves and the salty breeze in the air. With its rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, Rodeo Beach provides an ideal backdrop to begin our adventure.

The parking lot tends to fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so I suggest arriving early to secure a good spot. There are conveniently located restrooms available, and the beach itself is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the scenery before starting the trail. Also, note that Rodeo Beach is pet-friendly. Dogs are allowed!!!

We met at 9 AM with eight other women, and once everyone gathered, we began the walk with a beautiful sunrise to start the day. For the end of October, it felt like summer.

The Trail Begins

Upon setting foot on the trail, we were instantly captivated by the stunning scenery around us. The path winds through coastal scrub, providing breathtaking ocean vistas at each turn. It's well-marked, making navigation simple even for novice hikers. Additionally, there are bunkers to explore along the route, which is incredibly exciting!

While walking, we encountered families, other hikers, runners, numerous bikers (watch out for them!), and cheerful dogs relishing the fresh, clear day.

We were all wearing Halloween accessories, and people commented on how fun that was. We took a few photos and videos along the way.

Scenic Overlooks

One of the highlights of the hike is the series of scenic overlooks offering breathtaking views of the coastline. At each viewpoint, I stopped to admire the captivating landscapes. The fog added to the scene, revealing the Golden Gate, San Francisco city, and even the Bay Bridge in the distance.

These overlooks are perfect for capturing photos or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility.

We had hiked approximately 2.5 miles uphill and reached the midpoint of our loop, where it was all downhill. The trail offered a new view of the landscape before we returned to our starting point. We passed by Rodeo Lagoon, and by noon, we were back, ready to enjoy the meal I had prepared for everyone.

The Power of Shared Meals in Strengthening Sisterhood Bonds

When we arrived, we all settled in, grabbed chairs, and found a free table by the water to set up our meal. It was fantastic and perfect for fall, featuring all the seasonal ingredients.

Tips for Your Hike

If you’re thinking about embarking on this hike, consider these tips to enhance your experience:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The trail has uneven sections; sturdy hiking shoes are advisable for safety and comfort.

• Bring Water: Hydration is crucial, especially on warm days.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Our Halloween Sunday hike along the 5.3-mile loop offered a refreshing escape into nature. We women bonded, shared stories, laughed, and savored our delicious meal. As the saying goes, food tastes best when enjoyed outdoors!

As we celebrate Halloween or any other holiday, let's not forget the beauty of the outdoors and the joy of discovering new places. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just seeking a leisurely stroll, this trail offers something for everyone. So put on your hiking boots, pack a snack, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Marin Headlands!

Raquel

wmw The Circle Leader, & Founder