The best cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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Touring cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve offer opportunities to explore a landscape characterized by rolling grasslands and multi-use fire roads. The preserve features unique geology with serpentine soil, supporting over 200 species of native plants. Cyclists can experience expansive panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island. The area connects to the Tiburon Uplands, providing varied terrain for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Spaceβ¦
Last updated: May 7, 2026
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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77
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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15.3km
01:18
290m
290m
Cycle the Angel Island Perimeter Road for moderate touring with 360-degree San Francisco Bay views and historical sites.
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13.7km
00:50
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
the typical boat houses north of San Francisco
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Tiburon Harbor is a picturesque waterfront location with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Angel Island. Once a bustling railroad and ferry hub, it's now a charming spot for visitors with its marina, restaurants, historic Main Street, and scenic walking paths. The harbor is a popular gateway to outdoor adventures, from sailing and kayaking to catching the ferry for a day of hiking on Angel Island.
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Sausalitoβs floating homes form a lively and unique community of over 400 houseboats anchored in Richardson Bay, just north of San Francisco. Originally emerging in the late 19th century as simple fishing huts and weekend getaways, these structures transformed over time into a refuge for artists, writers, and free spirits. After World War II, many abandoned materials from shipyards were repurposed to create imaginative residences, reflecting a deeply creative and unconventional way of life. Crafted from reclaimed wood, former ferries, and even repurposed streetcars, these homes became icons of counterculture living. During the 1970s, locals fiercely defended their alternative lifestyle in the "Houseboat Wars," a pivotal movement that safeguarded their place in Sausalitoβs history. Today, these floating dwellings blend architectural eccentricity with bohemian charm, providing a relaxed, water-based way of life that thrives on creativity and strong community bonds.
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The Old Tiburon Rail Trail is a scenic 2.6-mile path along the San Francisco Bay, with breathtaking water views and Mt. Tamalpais. Starting at Blackie's Pasture, it winds past coastal mudflats full of wildlife before transitioning into an on-street bike lane leading to downtown Tiburon. It's a fantastic, smooth ride with historical markers, parks, and a ferry terminal at the trail's end, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature and local history for a day away from the big city.
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The Angel Island Ferry Landing in Ayala Cove offers regular passenger ferry service to Tiburon and San Francisco. The Angel Island to Tiburon Ferry provides a 15-minute crossing of the Racoon Strait to the Tiburon Ferry Terminal. The island is car-free, providing safe trails to hikers and bikers. Unlike the Tiburon and Sausalito ferry piers, private boats can moor at Ayala Cove Pier under Angel Island State Park's rules. Late in the day, lines can grow long, and on busy dates, visitors may be left waiting at the pier when the ferry reaches capacity.
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Landing of the short ferry from Tiburon or the longer ride from San Francisco. From here the entire island is car-free, reserved for hikers and bikers.
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The Tiburon Terminal is a ferry landing for the Golden Gate and Angel IslandβTiburon Ferry's providing a connection from Marin County across the San Francisco Bay. From here, you can catch a ferry to Angel Island, San Francisco, or take the China Basin Ferry to see a Giants game. Bikes are welcome on all vessels on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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The Sausalito houseboat community is full of architectural gems and repurposed old working boats, and each is wonderfully unique. Bikes are not allowed on the dock, so you must park your bike to get a closer look; however, remember to be respectful when visiting, as these are residential homes, and you are close to someone's living space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The preserve features rolling grasslands and multi-use fire roads. While some trails are unpaved, they are generally well-maintained. You can expect varied terrain, from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents, with some routes involving descents and climbs to peaks offering 360-degree views.
Are there routes suitable for beginner touring cyclists?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Blackie's Pasture β Old Tiburon Rail Trail loop from Tiburon is an easy 10.8 km path that follows a historic rail line, providing a flat and accessible ride. Another option is the Tiburon Ferry Terminal β Richardson Bay Park loop from Tiburon, which is 8.8 km and also rated easy.
What are the best routes for experiencing panoramic views?
Many routes offer stunning vistas. The preserve is known for its 'million dollar views' of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and various bays. The Heathcliff Fire Road, for instance, offers continuous bay views. Routes like the Paradise Beach County Park β Tiburon Linear Park Bike Trail loop from Tiburon also provide excellent bay scenery.
What historical landmarks or natural features can I see along the routes?
You can visit the historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a Carpenter Gothic structure built in 1888. Adjacent to it is the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve. The area is also rich in unique natural features due to its serpentine soil, supporting over 200 species of native plants, including the endangered Tiburon Jewelflower and various other wildflowers.
When is the best time to visit Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve for touring cycling?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but for wildflower viewing, the period from mid-May to mid-June is ideal. During this time, the hills are blanketed with blooms like Fremont's starlily, California poppies, and buttercups. The weather is generally pleasant for cycling during spring and fall.
Are there any moderate or more challenging touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are routes with moderate climbs and descents. The Paradise Beach County Park β Tiburon Linear Park Bike Trail loop from Tiburon is a moderate 15.6 km route. Another popular moderate option is the Angel Island Perimeter Road, which is 15.3 km and involves some elevation changes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the expansive panoramic bay views, the well-maintained multi-use fire roads, and the diverse rolling grasslands that make for a scenic and enjoyable cycling experience.
Are there any loop routes available for touring cyclists?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the preserve are loops. Examples include the Blackie's Pasture β Old Tiburon Rail Trail loop from Tiburon and the Tiburon Ferry Terminal β Richardson Bay Park loop from Tiburon, both offering convenient circular rides.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
The preserve is a habitat for various wildlife. You might spot birds of prey such as American kestrels, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers hunting over the hillsides. The diverse plant life also supports a healthy ecosystem.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
There are over 90 touring cycling routes available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Is there a route that connects coastal parks?
Yes, the Paradise Beach County Park β Tiburon Linear Park Bike Trail loop from Tiburon is a 15.6 km route that offers views of the bay and connects several coastal parks, providing a varied and scenic ride.
Most popular routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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