Pioneer Tree Trail Loop

Pioneer Tree, an old growth redwood for which the trail was named, was destroyed in a fire in 2022.

Hike through redwoods on a small narrow trail.

Location: Samuel P. Taylor State Park
Length: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: easy
Shade: shaded
Parking: main parking lot at Camp Taylor ($8/vehicle, pay at park entrance)
Public Transportation: bus 68 (Stagecoach) stops near the park entrance
WC: at campground/parking lot
Dogs: not allowed on hiking trails, only in developed areas and Cross Marin Trail

Link to park website

Hiked: Jan 2021, Apr 2025

Trail Route & Notes

From the large parking lot at Camp Taylor, walk across the creek, then turn left onto the Cross Marin Trail. You’ll pass some more parking spots and a picnic area. After the paved road ends, you’ll see the trail marker for Pioneer Tree Trail. The trail is easy to follow from there for about 2 miles. When it meets the Cross Marin Trail again, go left to return to the bridge.

This was a short and easy trail, very pleasant but also not that interesting overall. We had to navigate some muddy patches because it had rained a few days before.

Sadly, Pioneer Tree, estimated to be 800 years old, was destroyed in a fire in March 2022. It was one of the last remaining old-growth redwoods in Samuel P Taylor SP, and measured at around 200 ft. The trail is still pleasant, but you won’t see a sign inviting you to step off the trail to have a look at the tree anymore.