Abbotts Lagoon

Dogs No Dogs

E-Bikes Unknown

Start out riding through open scrub on firm level ground (initially suitable even for wheelchairs). Only the northern lobe of the lagoon is visible from here. The lagoons are separated from the ocean by a strip of sand that is breached only during big winter storms. When this happens, salty seawater enters the lagoons to mix with the freshwater, making the lagoons brackish.

Stop off at the benches for calm contemplation, or for birdwatching. Take the spur trail just before the bridge that crosses over the junction between the two lagoon lobes. The spur heads up to a wildflower covered bluff with good views over the lagoon and out to sea. Ride back to the bridge and continue westward on the sandy path out to the windier Great Beach.

Poison hemlock has been spotted beside this trail, so don't wander! Also, don't tread on the fragile dune plants that help prevent erosion. As always on Pt. Reyes, be prepared for windy cold weather, but the lagoon area feels more sheltered than most places on the western side.