Feeling cooped up these past couple of months? Now that most Marin trails are open again, take advantage of the gorgeous summer weather and soak in some sun in the great outdoors! Don’t forget to bring enough water, and take note that some restrictions may be in place on account of the pandemic.

Here are a few reminders from Marin County Health & Human Services

 

While parks and trails may be open to drive-in traffic, most facilities like restrooms, picnic areas, and visitor centers remain closed.

Try to keep a minimum distance of 6 feet from people outside your family group on the trail.

Make sure you bring face masks or other coverings; if you can’t maintain a 6-foot social distance on trails then masks must be worn.

Masks are not required for children under 12.

Try to stick to trails in your area; unnecessary travel is still prohibited.

Most coastal areas in Marin, including Point Reyes National Seashore, the Marin Headlands, and Stinson Beach, are still restricting access to vehicular traffic.

 

Here are a few day trails you might want to check out by yourself or with your kids!

 

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock Rd, Point Reyes, CA 94970

 

Point Reyes National Seashore is currently only open for the purpose of physical exercise for those who can travel on foot or bicycle from home, or if you are a local resident with a disabled placard/license plate. Chimney Rock is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, and the short hike here will give you a unique perspective on the beauty of Drake’s Bay and the surrounding Pacific Ocean. The 1.4-mile trail traverses the exposed, bluff-lined peninsula that forms the eastern section of Point Reyes and heads out to the tip and an overlook of the ocean, Drakes’ Bay, and Chimney Rock. The trail has a 100-foot elevation gain and offers views of the gorgeous coastline, marine life, and Point Reyes’ lifeboat history.

 

Muir Woods

1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

 

The trail to Muir Woods via the Deer Park Fire road runs for 4.3 miles, and is considered a backdoor trail into the Muir Woods. Offering a nice hike with coastal views, ridges, and redwood stands, this little-known trail is a great place for a quick hike.

 

Steep Ravine Trail to Dipsea Trail  Loop

3801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

 

The Mount Tamalpais State Park’s Steep Ravine Trail has a hike that joins with the Dipsea Trail to form a 3.4-mile loop that features a cascading canyon at Webb Creek, wooden bridges straight out of a fairy tale, and a canopy of redwoods. There is also a 10-foot ladder you can use to climb moss-covered boulders.

 

Mount Tamalpais East Peak

3801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley, CA 94941

 

This moderate hike of 4 miles follows Hogback Fire Road to Fern Creek Road and provides one of the most direct access to East Peak, the true summit of Mount Tamalpais. The trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as well as the San Francisco Peninsula and San Pablo Bay.

 

Rush Creek Open Space Preserve

Basalt Creek, Novato, CA 94945

 

Offering fairly flat routes, Rush Creek’s 3.8-mile semi-loop is a great trail to bring the kids along. This 2-hour hike starts at the Pinheiro Fire Road and drops down to the edge of Cemetary Marsh, where wild and plant life abound. The trail also offers views of Mount Burdell plus resting spots along the way with shade from oak and eucalyptus trees.

 

Turtle Back Trail Loop

China Camp State Park, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA 94901

 

The Turtle Back Trail loop is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring an elevated boardwalk and educational panels. This short loop of 0.7 miles offers scenic views of the China Camp State park, including the forest edge of Turtleback Hill and a stretch of wetlands. You can also enjoy views of Mount Diablo, Mt. Burdell, Jarke’s Island, and the east bay shoreline.