Easy hikes and walks in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve
4.8
(380)
6,324
hikers
241
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve traverse a landscape characterized by open grassy hills, oak woodlands, and diverse grasslands. The preserve features Bald Hill, standing at 1,132 feet (345 meters), which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and distant bay. Habitats include grassland, chaparral, and native forests with redwood, oak, and bay trees. Seasonal streams flow after rain, adding to the natural features of the area.
Best easy hiking trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve
- The most popular easy hiking route is Deer Park Loop, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 43 minutes to complete. This route features gentle ascents through varied woodland and open areas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Trail Junction loop from Fairfax, an easy 2.8 miles (4.5 km) path. This trail offers a pleasant walk through the preserve's lower elevations, often completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the View from Bald Hill loop from Fairfax, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km) trail leading through open grasslands and offering views from Bald Hill, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve is defined by open grassy hills, oak woodlands, and panoramic viewpoints. The network offers options for various ability levels, with many routes suitable for easy excursions.
- The routes in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.85 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 7,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Bald Hill Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.84km
01:43
180m
170m
The Deer Park Loop offers a delightful and accessible hiking experience, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. The trail winds through pleasant natural landscapes, providing a refreshing escape from the everyday. You'll find yourself immersed in a tranquil environment, making it an ideal choice for a peaceful walk or a family outing.
Planning your visit to the Deer Park Loop is straightforward. The trailhead is easily accessible, and parking is generally available, though it's wise to arrive earlier on busy days. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) route, with its 577 feet (176 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, rewarding hike.
This particular Deer Park Loop is known for its beginner-friendly nature, making it one of the more popular routes for those new to hiking or looking for a less strenuous adventure. Its gentle terrain and manageable distance provide a welcoming introduction to the outdoors, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant physical challenge.
15
hikers
4.57km
01:19
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
5.15km
01:46
280m
280m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
5.54km
01:37
160m
130m
Embark on the Phoenix Lake and Yolanda Trail Loop, an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike that offers a diverse landscape. You will gain 519 feet (158 metres) in elevation, taking about 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. The route transitions from wide fire roads to singletrack paths, leading you through forests of coast live oak, madrone, and redwood trees. Keep an eye out for seasonal wildflowers and enjoy views of Mount Tamalpais summit and Bald Hill as you hike.
To start your adventure, head to Natalie Coffin Greene Park, where you will find the trailhead, picnic tables, and restrooms. This area is dog-friendly, but please keep your dog on a leash for everyone's safety and enjoyment. Be aware that the trail and its parking lot can become quite busy, especially on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. Also, remember to watch for poison oak in certain sections of the trail.
This loop is a highlight within the Mount Tamalpais Watershed, known for its varied scenery and natural beauty. As you explore, you might spot ducks, herons, and turtles around Phoenix Lake, adding to the wildlife viewing opportunities. Don't miss the historic Phoenix Lake Log Cabin along the way, a notable landmark that provides a glimpse into the area's past and makes this route particularly special.
3
hikers
6.35km
01:51
190m
160m
Embark on an easy hike along the Phoenix Lake via Shaver Grade and Fish Grade Fire Road, where you'll discover a rich forest of redwoods, oaks, and California bays. The route often follows a stream, leading you to the tranquil, emerald-blue waters of Phoenix Lake. This 3.9-mile (6.4 km) trail involves a gentle ascent of 617 feet (188 metres) and typically takes around 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant outdoor experience.
Planning your visit to this popular area is straightforward. The trails around Phoenix Lake are managed by the Marin Municipal Water District, meaning you can access them without needing specific permits or paying fees. Parking is generally available, but it's a well-loved spot, so consider an earlier start on busy days. The area is also welcoming for families with kids and dogs, provided your canine companions remain on a leash.
Phoenix Lake is a highlight of the Mount Tamalpais Watershed, known for its diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for ducks, grebes, or even river otters near the lake's edge. During the wetter months of winter and spring, the lake's spillway transforms into a striking artificial waterfall, adding a unique visual element to your hike. It's a great option for a refreshing escape into nature.
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Tips from the Community
This cabin dates back to the 1890s and was originally a caretaker's home located on what was known as part of the ranch for the nearby Porteous Mansion. The cabin's construction comes from redwood logs cut from the Deer Park section of the ranch and the trim around the windows and doors from a fallen tree on the southwest side of Shaver Grade. It is an interesting piece of local history and the only structure of its kind in Marin County.
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In 1967, the family of Natalie Coffin Greene donated 25 acres of Phoenix Lake land for a park in her memory. It is a very private, secluded and peaceful spot to set out on a day hike. The park also makes a great destination in and of itself. It has picnic tables, Ross Creek running through it, and restrooms. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash. The tiny parking lot is usually full on summer weekends, so arriving early in the day is best.
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With over 150 miles of trails, this junction leads to several choices, depending on how far you want to extend your hike. Shaver Grade Road is a gravel fire road that climbs gradually toward Bon Tempe Lake. Eldridge climbs steeply from here and swings south on a more gradual incline, which will take you to the top of Mount Tamalpais East Peak. Fish Grade will take you to Fish Gulch Trail, and Gertrude Ord Trail is a single track that runs along Phoenix Creek, around Phoenix Lake and connects to several other routes for miles of tremendous trails to explore.
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Phoenix Lake is open to the public for swimming and fishing. Dogs are allowed on the surrounding trails, but are not allowed to swim nor drink from the water.
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From easiest to hardest climbs out of phoenix lake from this junction: -Shaver Grade, easy grade, longer, shaded and pretty -Eldridge Grade, medium, good length and can connect you to mt tam east peak -Fish Grade fire road, very steep, we hiked the bikes
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On Shaver Grade Road, you get to ride along the incredibly blue waters of Phoenix Lake.
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Strategic intersection of three trails/forest roads
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Bald Hill Open Space Preserve offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails. There are nearly 100 easy routes to explore, making it an ideal destination for casual walks and beginner hikers.
What are the typical lengths and durations for easy hikes in the preserve?
Easy hikes in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve vary in length, but many popular routes are between 2.5 to 4 miles (4 to 6.5 km) long. These can typically be completed in 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. For example, the Deer Park Loop is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) and takes about 1 hour 43 minutes.
Are there any easy loop trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, the preserve features several easy loop trails perfect for a round trip. A great option is the Trail Junction loop from Fairfax, which is an easy 2.8 miles (4.5 km) path. Another popular choice is the View from Bald Hill loop from Fairfax, a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail offering scenic views.
What kind of views can I expect on easy trails in the preserve?
Many easy trails lead to or offer glimpses of the preserve's panoramic viewpoints. From Bald Hill Summit, you can enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of Ross Valley, Mount Tamalpais, San Pablo Bay, San Francisco, and San Pedro Mountain. Trails like the View from Bald Hill loop from Fairfax are specifically designed to showcase these vistas.
Are the easy hiking trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve family-friendly?
Absolutely. The preserve's easy trails are well-suited for families. The varied landscapes of open grasslands and oak woodlands provide an engaging environment for children. Many routes have gentle ascents, making them manageable for younger hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the easy trails?
Yes, Bald Hill Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on-leash on trails and under voice command on fire roads, allowing you to enjoy an easy hike with your canine companion.
What is the best time of year to visit for easy hikes?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly lovely when the meadows burst with wildflowers. After rainstorms, seasonal streams flow, adding to the natural beauty. The open grasslands at the summit make it pleasant on cooler days, while shaded oak woodlands offer respite in warmer months.
Where can I park for easy access to the trails?
The preserve is easily accessible from nearby towns like San Anselmo, Ross, and Fairfax, with multiple trailheads leading into the area. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on the respective komoot tour pages or local park websites.
Are there any historical landmarks or unique features to see on the easy trails?
While hiking, you might encounter a historical cabin made from redwood logs and trimmed with wood from a fallen tree, offering a unique glimpse into local history. The diverse ecosystems, including redwood, oak, and bay trees, also provide interesting natural features.
What kind of wildlife might I see on an easy hike?
The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife. On easy paths, you might spot fox, bobcat, and various bird species like savannah sparrows and dark-eyed juncos. In spring, anise swallowtail butterflies are also common.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.85 stars from over 400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the panoramic views from Bald Hill, the diverse landscapes ranging from open grasslands to oak woodlands, and the well-maintained trails that make for enjoyable, easy excursions.
Are there any less crowded easy hikes in the preserve?
While popular, the extensive network of trails means you can often find quieter sections. Exploring trails that connect to the adjacent Marin Municipal Water District lands can also offer a more secluded experience, even on easy routes.
Are there restrooms or water facilities available along the easy trails?
It's important to note that there are no restrooms or water available within Bald Hill Open Space Preserve itself. Hikers are advised to plan accordingly and bring their own water and supplies.
Most popular routes in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve
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