Estero-White Gate Loop (Double Estero)
Trail length: 11.4 miles, out and back & loop
Terrain: grasses, open
Toilet? Yes, at Estero Trailhead
Parking: Estero Trailhead '
Dates visited: July 2018, August 2021
Favorite plants on this trail: marsh plants
Visit both Drakes Estero and Limantour Estero on this “Double Estero” hike through a small forest and across vast grasslands, nearly always within sight of water. Hike this long loop on a cool day to avoid over-heating on this fully exposed trail. In winter, the Estero Trail glows with soft winter light and teems with waterfowl. Sheltered estuaries hold flocks of ducks—Green-winged Teal, Buffleheads, and Hooded Mergansers—while Willets and Marbled Godwits probe tidal flats. Wintering flocks mingle with early migrants. Raptors like the American Kestrel and Northern Harrier work the open fields.
The White Gate Trail is a connector between the Muddy Hollow Road Trail and the Estero Trail, running parallel to the Glenbrook Trail. It passes several ponds and offers views of Limantour Estero in the distance. A few pine trees dot the path but the trail is otherwise fully exposed to the sun and wind. You are likely to spot wildlife near one of the marshy areas along the trail.
On the Muddy Hollow Road Trail, look and listen for Northern Flickers – unlike most woodpeckers, they forage on the ground using their long, barbed tongue to snare insects, especially ants. You may spot a tell-tale vermillion feather along the trail.
The Glenbrook Trail connects Muddy Hollow Road to the Estero Trail. It offers panoramic views of Limantour Estero and the ocean.
Back on the Estero Trail, you’ll have even closer views of the ocean and you’ll cross Limantour Estero. Look for marsh plants along the edge. Tule elk are often seen feeding in the dry grasses of the marsh and in the surrounding hills. Make your way back to the trailhead taking time to enjoy the view.
Loop: Estero/White Gate/Muddy Hollow Road/Glenbrook/Estero
Park at the Estero Trailhead.
Hike on the Estero Trail to the split (2.5 miles)
Go left uphill and continue hiking on the Estero Trail toward White Gate Trail. At the intersection with the Drakes Head Trail, go left toward Muddy Hollow/White Gate. Watch for blue arrow markers. (1.5 miles)
Hike White Gate which turns into Muddy Hollow Road. (1.5 miles)
From Muddy Hollow Road, turn right onto the Glenbrook Trail and continue to the Estero Trail. (0.7 miles)
Turn right onto the Estero Trail and hike back to the intersection with the White Gate Trail. (1.2 miles)
Stay on the Estero Trail and retrace your path back to the trailhead. (4.0 miles)
Hiking the loop in this order will put you facing the ocean on the Glenbrook and Estero segments.
Volunteer Opportunity: Point Reyes National Seashore Association
Each month, PRNSA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities across the park—from removing ice plant at North Beach to restoring habitat at the Giacomini Wetlands. Explore more volunteer opportunities—like becoming a wildlife docent, caring for the park’s Morgan horses, or helping out at our visitor centers.