RSVP: https://www.eacmarin.org/piper-on-the-ridge
Space is limited.
For over 35 years, the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin (EAC) has gathered our community to join us on Point Reyes National Seashore’s Inverness Ridge to watch the setting sun over the Pacific Ocean and the rise of the full moon while listening to the sounds of Scottish bagpipes with piper Dan McNear over picnic dinners. This event is fog, shine, or light drizzle.
NEW in 2025: Dan’s bandmate Chelsea will be joining in to pipe alongside Dan. They will alternate play times and play together.
This is a great way to come together and usher in the changing season in one of the many places we love in coastal Marin. Tradition is to Pay the Piper, where proceeds benefit our grassroots nonprofit mission to protect and sustain the unique lands, waters, and biodiversity of West Marin. Donations can be made online when you RSVP or at the event. Directions are included in the RSVP.
A big thanks to the Bovine Bakery for cookies!
This event requires a permit from the National Park Service and may be canceled due to weather, fire danger closures, or government shutdowns. While we are in a shutdown, the park remains open. Please be extra careful when visiting and expect limited services.
Event Origins
Piper on the Ridge is a West Marin tradition celebrating the changing seasons and full moon. The event started in the late 70s when a group of locals (instigated by Kate Munger) began walking up to the ridge to watch the setting sun and moonrise and to enjoy good food, wine, and company. The original piper, Matt Burgin, moved away to the East Bay, and Dan McNear took over in about 1980. Eventually, this group got busy with other pursuits and handed the event off to the EAC in the early 90s to run and use as a fundraiser.
Event Guidance - Please read carefully
This event is outdoors and requires a .2-mile hike uphill to the event site.
You will walk back in the dark, so don't forget a headlamp or flashlight.
No dogs, smoking, or fires are allowed per park regulations.
No restrooms are available.
Bring a blanket, picnic dinner, and a thermos with your favorite hot beverage.
Wear warm layers, including a beanie, as it can be windy, and bring a raincoat as the fog/mist may slip over us.
Registered attendees can check in at the trailhead so we can account for and ensure the majority of our guests have arrived.
This event is by permit only and has a cap.
Keep wildlife wild, and pack out what you pack in. No trash left behind for the critters!
Carpooling is encouraged based on your comfort.