Last updated: October 10, 2024
Thing to Do
Tule Elk Viewing At Point Reyes National Seashore
NPS / T. Bernot
A special part of any visit to Point Reyes National Seashore is the opportunity to see tule elk. Though this native-Californian species was briefly thought extinct by some biologists in the early 1870s, conservation efforts have since led to the regrowth of tule elk herds across the state. There are three separate herds of tule elk in Point Reyes National Seashore; read the descriptions below for information on where to view them and tips for doing so safely.
Tomales Point Herd
The best chance to see tule elk is at Tomales Point. In this area, a large herd roams within a 2,600 acre enclosure called the Tule Elk Reserve. This is the first site where the tule elk were reintroduced to Point Reyes in 1978. You can drive your car a short distance into the preserve and park at the Historic Pierce Point Ranch. Many visitors see elk from the road on even this short stretch. If you would like to experience seeing the elk beyond your vehicle, set out on the Tomales Point Trail. This out-and-back trail allows visitors to decide how long they would like their adventure to be, and provides ample viewing opportunities.
Drakes Herd
When driving out towards the Point Reyes Lighthouse, Drakes Beach, or Chimney Rock along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, keep your eyes peeled for this free-ranging herd along the road or in the distance. When viewing from your car, be sure to pull off the road in designated pull outs and parking areas only. Do not block traffic.
Limantour Herd
The most elusive free-ranging herd, these elk can be spotted anywhere from Drakes Estero to Coast Campground (a few have even made it all the way to Wildcat Campground). Look inland when walking on Limantour Beach or set out for a hike on the Muddy Hollow Trail. While sighting this herd isn't as likely, it's all the more rewarding when you come across them out on the trail.
Viewing Elk Safely and Successfully
- Do not collect elk antlers. They are an important source of calcium for many wildlife species, such as rodents. Collection of antler sheds in the park is illegal, and could result in a fine.
- Always observe elk from a distance.
- Use the "rule of thumb." It is a technique to help ensure you are staying a respectful distance from wildlife. Hold out your arm, raise your thumb, and close one eye. If you cannot block your view of the animal with your thumb, you are probably too close.
- Use binoculars or spotting scopes.
- Use a telephoto or zoom lens for wildlife photography.
- If an elk becomes alert or nervous and begins to move away, you are too close.
- Stay on official trails. Move slowly and talk quietly.
- Feeding elk or any other wildlife is unhealthy for the animals, dangerous for visitors, and strictly prohibited.
Discover more about the tule elk by visiting the park's Tule Elk and Viewing Tule Elk pages.
Details
Duration
1-5 Hours
Activity
Wildlife Watching
Age(s)
All ages.
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are prohibited at Tomales Point and on most of the parks trails, including those from which tule elk may be seen. Visit the park's Pets page to learn more about where pets are welcome at Point Reyes National Seashore.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Multiple locations within Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California
Tule Elk Reserve
The Tule Elk Reserve on Tomales Point has the largest tule elk herd in the park. Elk are frequently seen from the northernmost 1.4-mile-long (2.2-km-long) stretch of Pierce Point Road that passes through the reserve. Even more elk may be seen if you take a hike along the 4.7-mile-long (7.5-km-long) Tomales Point Trail.
Drakes Beach Herd
A free-ranging herd of elk are frequently visible grazing in the cattle pastures along Drakes Beach Road and along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard between its junction with the North Beach Access Road and its junction with the South Beach Access Road. There are no official trails in this area. When viewing elk from your car, be sure to pull off the road in designated pull outs and parking areas only. Do not block traffic by stopping on the road.
Limantour Herd
Every now and then, Limantour Herd elk are seen from Limantour Road. But most of the Limantour Herd are in more remote locations and visitors usually have to go for a hike to see them.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
While tule elk are active year-round, August through October is an exciting time of year in Point Reyes, as it is the rut season for the tule elk (otherwise known as mating or breeding season)! Visitors will likely hear bull elk bugling and may even get to see a couple of bull elk sparring with each other. Take extra caution when visiting during this time and be aware of your surroundings. Do not come between two bull elk, or between a bull and a group of cows (female elk). Please be extra mindful of cows with calves at any time of the year.
Summer
Although there is very little rain during summer months, there is often dense fog throughout the day in July, August, and September with temperatures along the coast often in the 60°s F (16–21°C).
Fall
The coastal areas of Point Reyes experience some of the clearest days in late September, October and early November. The occasional storm will start rolling through in late October, bringing clouds, wind, and rain. The strongest winds occur in November and December during occasional southerly gales.
Winter
The heaviest rainfall occurs in the winter months. Come prepared for rain and drizzle to possibly last for several days. In between winter rains, it is often sunny, calm, and cool.
Spring
Most spring days are windy and this area frequently experiences fresh to strong breezes. Expect cool temperatures in March. By late May and early June, temperatures can be quite pleasant, even warm.
Time of Day
Day
While Point Reyes National Seashore may be open for day use from 6 am to midnight, viewing wildlife with the use of artificial lights is prohibited.
Accessibility Information
While not always guaranteed, it is usually possible to view tule elk from your vehicle from the Pierce Point Road, Pierce Point Parking Lot, or along Drakes Beach Road or Sir Francis Drake Boulevard (between its junctions with the North Beach and South Beach access roads). When viewing elk from your vehicle, please make sure to pull completely off the road in designated pull outs and parking lots. Use caution if exiting your vehicle as few of these parking areas and shoulders meet accessibility standards. Accessible bathrooms are available at Drakes Beach and the Bear Valley Picnic Area.
The trails from which to view tule elk do not meet accessibility standards. They are mostly earthen trails with varying widths and degrees of slope and cross slope.