Hike the Abbotts Lagoon Trail to the Footbridge

Distance: 1.8 mi. (2.9 km) roundtrip Abbotts Lagoon is known for fantastic birding opportunities (particularly in the fall and winter), and beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Abbotts Lagoon is actually a series of three coastal lagoons. The upper (easternmost) lagoon is the smallest and contains the freshest water; the lower (westernmost) lagoon is the largest and saltiest. The beginning of this trail is an easy stroll past pastures and through coastal scrub before skirting along the southern edge of the middle lagoon. After 0.9 miles (1.5 km), you will arrive at a footbridge that crosses a short stream that connects the middle and lower lagoons. From this point, turn around if you are short on time, or feel free to continue for an extra 0.5 miles (800 meters) along the north edge of the lower lagoon and amid the sand dunes to arrive at the Point Reyes Beach (aka the Great Beach). Visit our Hike the Abbotts Lagoon Trail to the Ocean page for more information. Return via the same trail. This route description alone is not a substitute for a trail map. Print out the park's North District trail map (3,409 KB PDF) before your visit, or pick one up at a visitor center on your way. Always check current conditions before heading out into the park and familiarize yourself with park regulations. Please practice Leave No Trace principles. Visit the park's Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore page for hiking tips and information about trail etiquette and safety. Visit the park's Trail Advisories and Closures page for current information about closed trails, trails blocked by trees, or other temporary hazards or advisories.