Great hiking and mountain biking close to North Bay towns

Located east of Fairfax on the flanks of San Geronimo Ridge, this 1,500-acre Marin County preserve is both an open space treasure in its own right and a gateway to 25,000 acres of wildlands stretching to Mount Tamalpais.

Managed by the Marin County Department of Parks, the preserve supports a tapestry of distinct ecosystems: mixed coniferous forest (including redwoods), oak and madrone woodlands, chaparral lands and grasslands. Dwarf Sargent's cypress trees eke out an austere existence among the rocks along the ridgeline, sharing their territory with rare Marin manzanita. Wildlife is remarkably abundant. Along with the ubiquitous black-tailed deer, mountain lion and bobcat prowl these environs, and the fire roads and trails along the ridges are dotted with coyote scat. The preserve's high routes are a perfect place to observe the North Coast's famous fall raptor migration. In short, given its proximity to the great cities of the Bay Area, the preserve is remarkable for the sense of wilderness it conveys to the visitor.

ACTIVITIES: The preserve is a great hiking and mountain biking venue within an easy drive of San Francisco, the East Bay and the North Bay. Much of the ridgeline is exposed, and can become quite hot during sunny days. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a hat. Horseback riding is allowed on designated roads and trails.

ACCESSIBLE FEATURES: The trailhead entrance is accessible; trails are rough.

DOGS: On leash on single-track trails and off leash on fire roads if under voice control and owner has leash.