Marin Headlands (Golden Gate National Recreation Area)
1.0 mile
The Marin Headlands are a lovely place to hike, with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, the San Francisco Bay, and the city. Point Bonita Lighthouse can be visited on certain afternoons, and there are a few short trails nearby to add onto your trip if you’re interested in the historical monuments.
<4 miles
Yolanda Trail Loop from Phoenix Lake
Marin Municipal Water District
3.8 miles
This loop climbs up the hill above Phoenix Lake to views of Mt. Tam.
Short Phoenix Lake Loop
Marin Municipal Water District
2.8 miles
This short and easy hike circles the popular Phoenix Lake.
Hiking Mt. Tam’s East Peak
Mount Tamalpais State Park
1.3 miles
The easy loop around the East Peak has incredible views on a clear day, and the short but rocky hike up to the peak leads to the Fire Lookout.
Stinson Beach Out & Back on Dipsea Trail
Mount Tamalpais State Park
2.6 miles
A short hike from the town of Stinson Beach to White Gate Fire Road and back, this hike features a wooded stream and views of the Pacific Ocean
Deer Park to Six Points Loop via Bald Hill Trail
Marin Municipal Water District
2.5 miles
Hike uphill on a narrow shaded trail, reaching Six Points and views of Mt. Tam, and return via Bald Hill Trail and a wide fire road to Deer Park Trailhead.
Pantoll to Mountain Theater Loop via R&H Trail
Mount Tamalpais State Park
2.1 miles
Not the best of the hikes up to the Mountain Theater, but like all of them, it’s a nice stroll through the woods, with only a little bit of a tougher uphill climb on Bootjack Trail.
Devil’s Gulch to Stairstep Falls
Samuel P. Taylor State Park
2.3 miles
This trail is an easy and pleasant walk to a disappointingly small waterfall.
Rock Spring to Cataract Falls and Barth’s Retreat Loop
Marin Municipal Water District
3.7 miles
Hike along Cataract Creek to Laurel Dell, then make a short detour to the falls, returning via secluded Barth’s Retreat and the open ground of Simmons Trail. This hike is best in the rainy season.
Shoreline Trail around Back Ranch Meadows Loop
China Camp State Park
1.8 miles
This easy loop circles the Back Ranch Meadows Campground, taking you on a relaxed stroll through the woods.