Located high above the North Bay, Mt. Tamalpais was once the site of an old hotel. While the hotel is gone, an observation tower remains on the East Peak, and is surrounded by jagged volcanic rock that holds some interesting climbing.

Containing mostly easier climbs (5.3 - 5.11b), Mt. Tamalpais is a great place to teach someone how to climb, set up a top rope, or for a first trad lead.

The climbing primarily faces east, and offers incredible views of the rest of the bay area. Because of it's direction, you'll find most of the climbing in the shade in the afternoon. If you're going to be there a while, don't forget to head up to the observation tower for an incredible Pacific sunset.

Due to the rugged nature of the rock, it's probably best to either walk off most climbs, or to rappel from the top.

Depending on the day, you may have to pay $8 to park in the park, but then again, you might not.

Always check the Mount Tamalpais State Park website for current information.