The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve
4.7
(565)
10,444
hikers
188
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve traverse a landscape characterized by diverse terrain, including grassy slopes, wooded canyons, and oak woodlands. The preserve features unique serpentine grasslands and dramatic geological formations, offering expansive views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Hikers can explore hills and open spaces, with trails winding across small creeks. This varied environment provides a range of natural features for family-friendly exploration.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve
β¦Last updated: July 10, 2026
22
hikers
3.24km
00:50
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
hikers
16.6km
04:13
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
2.25km
00:34
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
20.9km
05:39
270m
270m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Well signposted and close by you can park next to the beautiful access road along the side (just opposite the university entrance).
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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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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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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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Nice stop for water and toilets. Also has bike fixing station
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Bird observation point right on the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking options suitable for families. The komoot community has mapped over 190 hiking routes in the area, with more than 75 of these rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What are some easy, short trails suitable for families with young children?
For a gentle stroll, consider the Old Rail Trail, an easy 3.2 km path with minimal elevation gain. Another excellent option is the Hauke Park and Bayfront Park loop, which is just over 2 km and very flat, ideal for a relaxed family walk.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
While specific circular routes within the immediate preserve are best explored on komoot's map, many trails can be combined to form loops. For example, the Hauke Park and Bayfront Park route is a pleasant loop that's very family-friendly. The preserve's varied terrain allows for many possibilities to create your own circular adventures.
Can we bring our dog on the trails?
Yes, Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly! Leashed dogs are welcome on signed fire roads and trails, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your furry family members.
What kind of views can we expect on the family-friendly trails?
Even on easier trails, you can expect stunning panoramic views of the entire San Francisco Bay Area. This includes breathtaking vistas of Mount Tamalpais, the city of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, and even Mount Diablo. The preserve's open grasslands and elevated points offer many opportunities for scenic overlooks.
Are there any interesting natural features or landmarks to look out for?
Absolutely! Keep an eye out for unique geological formations like Turtle Rock, a massive boulder that's a fun highlight. Near the preserve's highest point, you can find Petroglyph Rock, featuring ancient Native American carvings. In spring, the preserve is famous for its abundant wildflowers, including the rare Tiburon mariposa lily, which typically blooms in May.
When is the best time of year to hike with family in Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
Late winter and spring are particularly beautiful due to the vibrant wildflower blooms. May is especially notable for the Tiburon mariposa lily. Autumn also offers lovely colors from toyon and poison oak. While trails can be muddy during the rainy season, each season provides a unique experience. For comfortable hiking with kids, spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures.
Are there any trails with waterfalls?
During the appropriate season, typically after significant rainfall, hikers can find trails leading to seasonal waterfalls within the preserve's wooded canyons, such as Dawn Falls. These are a delightful sight for families to discover.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 540 ratings. Reviewers often praise the incredible panoramic views, the diverse landscapes ranging from grasslands to oak woodlands, and the opportunity to spot unique wildflowers in season. Many also appreciate the well-maintained trails suitable for various abilities.
Where can I find more information about Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve?
For additional details about the preserve, including visitor information and regulations, you can visit the Visit Marin website.
Are there any longer, but still family-friendly, routes for older children?
For families with older children looking for a longer adventure, the Mill Valley - Sausalito Path offers a moderate 16.5 km experience. While longer, its relatively gentle elevation changes make it manageable for active families, providing a great opportunity to cover more ground and enjoy varied scenery.
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