The best hikes from bus stations in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
4.7
(340)
8,449
hikers
70
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve offer access to a landscape characterized by rolling grasslands and ridgetops, providing panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and surrounding bays. The preserve features unique serpentine soil, supporting over 200 plant species, including native wildflowers. Historic Old Saint Hilary's Church is a notable landmark within the southern section.
Best bus station hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
- The most popular bus stationโฆ
Last updated: July 10, 2026
6
hikers
7.06km
01:52
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
hikers
3.31km
00:52
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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27
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
5.18km
01:22
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
7.31km
01:52
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Bayfront Park with gazebo, large lawns, picnic tables, boule courts, kayak/boat launch. Often used for free outdoor concerts
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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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Sausalitoโs 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 Sausalitoโs 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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Known for its charming waterfront, an old settlement of wooden houseboats, and the San Francisco Bay Model, a scale hydraulic model of the bay and local river deltas, Sausalito is a popular tourist destination and the gateway to the Marin Headlands, Muir Woods, and Marin County.
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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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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
How many bus station hiking trails are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
There are over 65 hiking routes that start conveniently from bus stations in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a wide range of options for exploring the area.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes starting from bus stations in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
Hikes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve offer stunning panoramic vistas. You can expect to see the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, the Marin Headlands, and expansive views of San Pablo Bay, San Francisco Bay, and Richardson Bay from various ridgetop locations.
Are there easy hiking options from bus stations in the preserve?
Yes, Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve offers plenty of easy hiking options from bus stations. Approximately 35 of the available routes are classified as easy, making them suitable for a relaxed outing. An example is the Sausalito Ferry Terminal loop from Sausalito, which is a gentle 3.3 km walk.
Can I find circular hiking routes starting from bus stations?
Many of the routes starting from bus stations in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve are designed as loops, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Sausalito Houseboats loop from Sausalito is a popular circular option.
What are some notable natural features or historical sites to look out for on these trails?
The preserve is rich in both natural beauty and history. You can explore areas with unique serpentine soil supporting over 200 plant species, including the critically endangered Tiburon jewelflower in spring. The historic Old Saint Hilary's Church, dating back to 1888, is a prominent landmark within the preserve.
Is Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve suitable for family hikes?
Yes, the preserve is considered a family-friendly hiking destination. Its varied terrain, with rolling ridgetops and occasional climbs, offers experiences suitable for different levels, and there's plenty to see, from wildflowers to panoramic views, to keep everyone engaged.
What is the best time of year to visit Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve for hiking?
Spring is particularly beautiful, as the hillsides are blanketed with a wide variety of wildflowers, including Fremont's starlily, suncups, and lupines. The critically endangered Tiburon jewelflower blooms specifically from mid-May to mid-June. However, the panoramic views are enjoyable year-round.
Are there any moderate difficulty hikes accessible from bus stations?
Yes, there are 29 moderate difficulty routes available from bus stations. These trails offer a bit more challenge while still being very rewarding. An example is the Sausalito Waterfront โ SCA Trail loop from Sausalito, which covers over 11 km with significant elevation changes.
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in the preserve?
Hikers frequently observe American kestrels, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers hunting over the hillsides. The diverse plant life also supports various smaller creatures, making for an engaging natural experience.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.77 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area, the abundance of wildflowers in spring, and the historical significance of Old Saint Hilary's Church.
Are there any permits required for hiking in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
No, permits are generally not required for day hiking on the established trails within Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve. It is an open space preserve freely accessible to the public.
Most popular routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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