Whether you want to see ocean views, learn a little bit of history, or marvel at towering redwoods, Marin’s got an accessible trail for you! This post covers options for accessible trails in Marin’s various federal parks. For recommended accessible trails in Marin’s state parks, you can view my earlier post here: 4 Beautiful Accessible Trails in Marin’s State Parks.
Marin has three federal parks: the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Point Reyes National Seashore, and, of course, Muir Woods National Monument. I’ve been multiple times and picked my favorite trails appropriate for those with wheelchairs or strollers, or anyone else looking for a flat, well-maintained trail with minimal elevation gain.
Batteries Loop Trail at Marin Headlands
This half-mile trail brings you past Batteries Alexander, Smith-Guthrie, and O’Rorke, which might interest history buffs. For everyone else, there are some nice views of the ocean. The trail is not paved, but it’s well-maintained. There’s a sizeable parking lot at the trailhead, along with an accessible toilet. Because it’s the Headlands, it can be quite foggy and cool in the mornings, so wrap up well. On a clear day, you might be able to see the Farallon Islands in the distance.
To view my full post on hiking the Batteries Loop Trail (along with some other short trails nearby), click here.
Muir Woods Main Trail
The main trail at Muir Woods National Monument is covered by a boardwalk for most of the way to Cathedral Grove (a little over half a mile). Some portions are paved. Everyone in Marin should visit this trail at least once. The path winds along the creek, beneath old-growth redwood trees. There are accessible restrooms near the park entrance, and several accessible parking spots – Muir Woods requires parking reservations, however, and there’s an entry fee.
Earthquake Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore
This loop at Point Reyes is 0.6 miles and located right at Bear Valley Visitor Center, where there are accessible parking spaces, restrooms, and picnic tables. There are signs along the way with information about California’s earthquakes, as well as a fence denoting how far the fault moved during the 1906 earthquake. The trail is paved and quite lovely on a nice day.
