A Hike-In Lodge Just Outside San Francisco Offers Cabins, Cozy Mountain Views, And Pancakes

San Francisco is associated with its iconic landmarks: the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the remnants of its 1960s counterculture, and its status as a high-tech hub. But while the city buzzes with innovation and history, it's not known for it's incredible hiking adventures. However, just across the Golden Gate Bridge, a rustic, off-grid escape awaits for those willing to trade city streets for mountain trails, and the best hikes in the Bay Area.

Perched near the top of Mount Tamalpais, the historic West Point Inn offers an experience reminiscent of an archaic era. Originally built in 1904 as a stop along the Mill Valley and Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railway, this charming lodge stands as one of the last surviving structures from a time when steam trains ferried visitors up the mountain.

Today, the West Point Inn is a refuge for hikers and nature lovers, offering an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world — just an hour's drive from San Francisco.

Tucked along a coastal ridge, the West Point Inn exudes old-world charm. The lodge and its surrounding cabins maintain a rustic simplicity, lit by gas lamps and heated by stone fireplaces. With no electricity and limited modern amenities, staying here is about embracing the fundamentals — fresh coastal air, natural scenery, and quiet nights under star-filled skies.

The main lodge features a spacious wrap-around deck with sweeping views of the Marin Headlands, the Pacific Ocean, and the distant San Francisco skyline. The grounds offer picnic tables, a horseshoe pit, and cozy gathering spaces for guests to unwind. Inside, two inviting lounges with plush sofas and stone fireplaces provide a warm retreat, while a well-equipped kitchen allows visitors to prepare their own meals. Accommodations range from simple lodge rooms to private cabins scattered along a rocky pathway. The main inn has seven rooms on the second floor, each outfitted with either a double or single bed and sharing communal bathrooms. Five additional cabins offer more secluded stays, with some featuring outdoor showers for an even more immersive rustic experience.

A highlight of the West Point Inn experience is its legendary pancake breakfast, held six times a year. On Mother's Day, Father's Day, and the second Sunday of each month from July through October, volunteers whip up stacks of fluffy pancakes alongside sausage links, coffee, and orange juice. The event draws hikers and breakfast enthusiasts alike, with proceeds supporting the maintenance of the inn. With limited trailhead parking available, it's best to arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy the hike before indulging in a hearty breakfast.

Reaching the West Point Inn requires a bit of effort, but the journey is part of the charm. The lodge is accessible only by foot or bike, making it a rewarding destination for those who enjoy an active adventure. Several trail options lead to the inn, offering different levels of difficulty and scenic variety. For day hikers, the most popular and easiest route begins at the Pan Toll Ranger Station. This relatively gentle 1.9-mile trail winds through grasslands and redwood groves, providing a scenic yet manageable ascent. Another option is the Bootjack Trail, which, while shorter, is steeper and more strenuous. For those looking for a moderate hike with sweeping views, the Mountain Theater/Rock Springs route is a fantastic choice.

Along the way, hikers will traverse diverse landscapes, from sun-drenched meadows to fern-covered pathways. Remnants of the old railway tracks serve as historical markers, offering glimpses into the past as the trail meanders toward the inn. Upon arrival, the panoramic views are well worth the effort — San Francisco shimmers in the distance, framed by rolling hills and the vast Pacific beyond. For those planning an overnight stay, parking is available at Bootjack and Pan Toll Campgrounds for $8 per night. Public transit is also an option, with Marin Transit's Route 61 offering service to Pan Toll Ranger Station along Panoramic Highway.

Whether visiting for a day hike, a peaceful overnight stay, or one of the famous pancake breakfasts, the West Point Inn provides a rare chance to step back in time and embrace the beauty of Mount Tamalpais. With no WiFi, no electricity, and only the sounds of nature filling the air, it's a must-visit hiking destination, and a place to reconnect — not just with the past, but with the present.