The best city hikes and walks in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve
4.7
(556)
10,294
hikers
42
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve are characterized by rolling grasslands, hills, and canyons, offering diverse landscapes for exploration. The preserve provides expansive views of Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco Bay, and the city skyline. Its unique geology includes various rock formations and serpentine soils, supporting a rich biodiversity of specialized native plant species. The terrain features both open spaces and wooded areas, particularly along watercourses.
Best urban hiking trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve
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Last updated: July 10, 2026
22
hikers
3.24km
00:50
20m
10m
The Old Rail Trail offers a wonderfully accessible and easy walk, perfect for a quick escape into nature. As a former railway line, you can expect a mostly flat andโฆ
5
hikers
5.45km
01:22
10m
10m
The Corte Madera Marsh Path offers a wonderfully accessible escape into nature, winding through serene wetlands with continuous waterside views along Corte Madera Creek. You'll enjoy panoramic vistas of Mountโฆ
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6
hikers
16.6km
04:13
50m
50m
The Mill Valley - Sausalito Path offers a delightful journey through Marin County's wetlands and along Richardson Bay, providing expansive views of Mount Tamalpais and even glimpses of San Francisco.โฆ
11
hikers
3.93km
01:01
30m
30m
The Walking Path loop from Corte Madera offers a delightful, flat, and wide multi-use experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll enjoy peaceful creekside views along this accessible route, whichโฆ
5
hikers
6.32km
01:38
40m
40m
If you're looking for easy walking paths in the Corte Madera area, the Corte Madera Canal Trail offers a delightful experience. This multi-use pathway provides continuous creekside views, winding throughโฆ
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Tips from the Community
This tidal sanctuary runs along the Mill Valley-Sausalito Pathway and the Charles F. McGlashan Pathway. More than 400 species of migratory birds rest here after their long flights, and if you pass through in the early morning or late evening, the sunrises and sunsets reflect beautifully on the surface of this 106-acre marsh.
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Where Coyote Creek drains into Richardson Bay (an arm of San Francisco Bay) is also the intersection of the trail along the creek and the Mill Valley - Sausalito Path that runs along the bay.
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South of the shopping center the trail crossed the highway and enters a pleasant network of trails through the Bayside parks and Marsh wetlands
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Offering commercial short distance seaplane taxi services and sightseeing tours
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Saltmarsh tidal wetland both sides of the trail, a former rail track
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A former railyard was converted into this lush meadow overlooking Richardson Bay, perfect for a soccer field if it wasn't so over-irrigated wet.
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Peaceful northern end of the Baywood Park wetland with a wooden pedestrian/bike bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
There are over 30 urban hiking trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find everything from short, easy strolls to longer, more moderate walks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
The urban trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 540 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and Mount Tamalpais, the abundance of wildflowers in spring, and the accessible, well-maintained paths.
Are there easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve offers many easy urban hikes perfect for beginners and families. Nearly 30 of the trails are rated as easy. A great option is the Old Rail Trail, which is relatively flat and offers pleasant views without significant elevation gain.
Are dogs allowed on the urban hiking trails?
Yes, Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the preserve's unique wildlife and plant species. Remember to bring water for your furry friend and clean up after them.
What kind of views can I expect on these urban trails?
The urban trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve are renowned for their expansive vistas. You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the iconic city skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais. Many trails offer 360-degree scenes, making for excellent photo opportunities.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking?
Yes, there are several loop options for urban hiking. For example, the Walking Path loop from Corte Madera offers a convenient circular route, allowing you to experience different sections of the preserve without retracing your steps.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to look out for?
Beyond the stunning views, keep an eye out for unique geological formations like Turtle Rock, a massive boulder popular for climbing. You might also discover the ancient Petroglyph Rock, featuring Native American carvings. In spring, the preserve is famous for its rare wildflowers, including the Tiburon mariposa lily, found exclusively here.
When is the best time to visit Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve for urban hiking?
The preserve is particularly enchanting in late winter and spring (February to June) when the grasslands are lush, and wildflowers are in full bloom. The weather is generally mild, making for comfortable hiking. While trails can be muddy during the rainy season, the views are spectacular year-round.
How can I access the urban trails using public transport?
Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve is accessible via public transport. Several bus routes serve the nearby towns of Tiburon and Corte Madera, from which you can connect to trailheads. We recommend checking local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near the preserve's entrances.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is available at various access points around Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve. Specific parking areas can be found near the main trailheads, though spaces can fill up quickly on busy weekends. Consider arriving early or using public transport if possible.
Are there any longer, more moderate urban hikes available?
For those seeking a longer, more moderate urban hike, consider the Mill Valley - Sausalito Path. This route offers a substantial distance with varied scenery, connecting urban areas with beautiful bay views and marshlands, providing a rewarding experience for hikers looking for a bit more challenge.
Can I find trails that offer a mix of urban and natural scenery?
Absolutely. Trails like the Corte Madera Marsh Path perfectly blend urban accessibility with natural beauty. You'll walk alongside developed areas while enjoying the serene marshlands, diverse birdlife, and expansive views of the bay, offering a unique urban-nature experience.
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