The best city hikes and walks in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve
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Urban hiking trails in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve offer a blend of natural and developed landscapes within the Novato area. The preserve features diverse terrain, including grasslands, oak and bay forests, and seasonal streams. Mount Burdell itself rises to 1,558 feet, providing elevated perspectives across the region. The area is characterized by a network of trails that range from wide fire roads to narrower paths, suitable for various hiking experiences.
Best urban hiking trails in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve
- The most popular urban hiking route is Miwok Trail, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail that takes about 35 minutes to complete. This easy route features gentle elevation changes through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Marin Museum of the American Indian, an easy 2.7 miles (4.4 km) path. This loop offers views of the surrounding landscape and is typically completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Old Town Novato and SMART Pathway Loop, a 0.7 miles (1.1 km) trail leading through urban and natural settings, often completed in about 15 minutes.
- Hiking in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve is defined by expansive grasslands, oak forests, and panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy strolls to longer, more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 25 reviews. More than 450 hikers have used komoot to explore Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
2.19km
00:36
30m
30m
The Miwok Trail in Novato's Miwok Park offers a delightful, easy hike through pleasant natural surroundings. You'll follow well-maintained paths, enjoying the park's atmosphere, with the route culminating at the Miwok Park summit, providing a nice view. This trail is perfect for a relaxed outing, especially for those seeking a quick nature break.
Planning your visit to the Miwok Trail is straightforward, as it's located within Miwok Park with readily available parking. This family-friendly trail is accessible year-round, making it a great option for a spontaneous walk. Given its short 35-minute duration, it's ideal for fitting into a busy schedule or for beginner hikers.
This particular Miwok Trail is noted for its suitability for beginners and families, thanks to its short 1.4 miles (2.2 km) distance and minimal 112 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain. Beyond the natural beauty, the park also hosts the Museum of the American Indian, adding a cultural dimension to your visit and making it a unique destination in Marin County.
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The Miwok Park and Museum loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a lush, tranquil environment in Novato. You'll follow tree-lined paths along a creek, enjoying the sounds of water and filtered light, with a mix of unpaved, natural, and paved sections underfoot. The trail winds through scrub and trees, and if you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife or wildflowers, making for a picturesque 2.7-mile (4.4 km) journey.
This easy route is perfect for families and beginners, taking about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete with a gentle 78 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain. The park is dog-friendly and features ADA accessible restrooms and paths, ensuring broad accessibility for all visitors. You'll find amenities like picnic tables and a playground, making it a great spot for a relaxed day out.
What truly sets this trail apart is its historical significance; it's located on an actual Coast Miwok village site, home to the Museum of the American Indian. This connection offers a unique opportunity to combine your outdoor activity with a deeper understanding of indigenous heritage, adding a rich cultural layer to your hike through this 39.7-acre oasis.
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1.15km
00:18
10m
10m
The Old Town Novato and SMART Pathway Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a mix of urban charm and green pathway. You'll begin by exploring the historic streets of Old Town Novato, admiring buildings like the Novato City Hall, before transitioning to the smooth, paved SMART Pathway. This section is lined with pleasant trees and shrubs, and even passes by the open fields of Slade Park, providing a refreshing change of scenery on this accessible route.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike, which takes only about 17 minutes to complete with its minimal 21 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain. The trail is enjoyable year-round, with spring and fall being particularly comfortable. Public transit is a breeze, as you can take the SMART train directly to the Novato Downtown station, making it a convenient outing for anyone.
What makes this loop stand out is its seamless integration of local history and modern multi-use path functionality. It's part of the larger Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) Pathway system, offering a glimpse into Novato's past while providing a smooth, paved surface suitable for all users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. It's a perfect example of family-friendly hikes in the area, allowing you to experience the town's character without a strenuous effort.
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3.45km
00:52
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Embark on an easy hike along the Shollenberger Park Loop, a flat, crushed gravel path that offers a peaceful journey through a vibrant wetland ecosystem. This accessible route covers 2.1 miles (3.5 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 16 feet (5 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you walk, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the wetlands and the Petaluma River, with distant glimpses of Mount Burdell to the south and Sonoma Mountain to the east. Expect to complete this scenic loop in about 52 minutes, taking in the serene marsh views from various benches along the way.
Planning your visit to Shollenberger Park is straightforward, as the loop is generally accessible for most visitors, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. This makes it a great family-friendly option for a quick escape into nature. Remember that during the rainy season, some sections of the trail might become muddy, so choose your footwear with that in mind. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you on your walk, adding to the enjoyment of your outdoor experience.
Shollenberger Park is renowned as a birdwatching paradise, offering you the chance to spot a wide variety of avian species throughout your hike. The park's rich wetland environment supports a diverse ecosystem, making it a significant natural habitat in the region. This focus on wildlife observation and natural preservation sets the park apart, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature close to Petaluma. It's a prime example of a successful wetland restoration project.
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2.72km
00:41
0m
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Hike the easy 1.7-mile Ellis Creek Trail in Petaluma Wetlands, offering birdwatching opportunities and views of polishing ponds.
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Tips from the Community
Miwok Park is a beautiful 22-acre area with a creek running through bay laurels and redwoods. It is named for local Indigenous people and serves as the home to the Museum of the American Indian. A replica of a traditional Miwok home is located outside of the museum, along with a garden containing plants that were important to the Miwok. There are two bocce courts, a playground, a picnic area, and an expansive grassy lawn, making it a nice place to stop and stretch your legs.
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This museum is housed in the historic Novato's postmaster's house circa 1850. It contains rotating and permanent exhibitions that cover everything from 19th-century daily life to social history in Novato. It is open by appointment only; admission is free, and it is close to the Hamilton Field History Museum and the Marin Museum of the American Indian if you want to plan a mini-museum adventure!
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My coffee stop on this ride is - Dr. Insomniac's Fine Coffee
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Great spots for a refueling break, lots of restaurants with outdoor seating, some historic buildings.
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Novato History Museum is located in the historic 1850 Postmasterโs House, 815 DeLong Avenue, Novato, CA 94945; (415) 897-4320, Special Exhibit: Dairies in Novato Museum Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 12pm-4pm, or by appointment. Closed on Holidays / Admission is FREE. https://www.facebook.com/NovatoHistoryMuseum
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Originally built in 1896, this was the site of Novatoโs first Presbyterian Church. The church was built in the Victorian Gothic style of architecture and served as Novato City Hall from 1963 to 2005. In 2009, it was renovated and Novato City Hall once again serves as a civic anchor in the heart of Novatoโs historic downtown.
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Housing the Visitor Info Center and the Chamber of Commerce, the Carlile house was built circa 1880, one of the oldest buildings in Novato. The home was part of Marin County's first efforts at sub-developing the original project included 5 homes, four of which are still occupied to this day.
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Surprisingly steep and high hill in this 38 acre park, just a mile west of downtown, with excellent views of Novato and the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in and around Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve?
This guide features several urban-friendly hiking trails in and around the Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve area, offering a variety of experiences from nature walks to town explorations. You can find routes like the Miwok Trail within the preserve, or more urban options such as the Old Town Novato and SMART Pathway Loop.
Are there easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families with children?
Yes, many of the urban trails in this area are considered easy, making them perfect for beginners or families. Routes like the Ellis Creek Trail offer gentle, mostly flat terrain. Within Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve itself, trails like the San Marin and Big Tank Fire Roads are also suitable for a relaxed outing.
What kind of views can I expect on these urban hikes?
While some trails offer urban scenery, many routes in the broader Mount Burdell area provide stunning natural vistas. Ascending Mount Burdell itself rewards hikers with magnificent panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area, Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, and the North Bay. Even some urban-adjacent trails offer glimpses of the surrounding natural beauty.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in the area?
Yes, several loop options are available. For a pleasant urban-adjacent loop, consider the Shollenberger Park Loop, which is popular for birdwatching and scenic views. Within Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve, many trails can be combined to create various loop hikes, offering diverse experiences.
What are some interesting places to explore or landmarks to see along these urban trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore historical and cultural points. The Hiking loop from Marin Museum of the American Indian offers a chance to visit the museum itself. Within Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve, you might encounter remnants of old quarry operations or the historic four-foot stone wall near the summit, hand-laid by Chinese laborers in the 1870s.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve and its surroundings?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in this area, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 27 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to lush forests, the stunning panoramic views from higher elevations, and the peaceful escape these trails offer so close to urban areas.
Is Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve suitable for dog walking?
Yes, Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary.
When is the best time of year to go urban hiking in this region?
Spring is particularly beautiful, as the preserve transforms with spectacular displays of wildflowers like California poppies and Douglas iris. Seasonal streams also flow during this time. However, the trails are accessible year-round, with cooler temperatures in fall and winter offering comfortable hiking conditions, though some paths might be muddy after rain.
Are there any unique natural features to look out for?
Yes, keep an eye out for Hidden Lake, a seasonal pond roughly halfway to the summit of Mount Burdell, which becomes a vibrant habitat for frogs and salamanders during the wet season. The preserve also boasts varied ecosystems, from expansive grasslands dotted with ancient oaks to lush oak and bay forests, providing a dynamic natural experience.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on these trails?
The preserve is home to a variety of bird species, including red-tailed hawks, wild turkeys, and bluebirds. Colorful butterflies are abundant, especially in spring. While rare, hikers should be aware that rattlesnakes and mountain lions are occasionally spotted in the area. You might also see Holstein dairy cows grazing, which help manage the landscape.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the urban hiking trails?
Given the urban nature of some of these routes, you'll find various dining options in nearby Novato. While there aren't cafes directly within the preserve, the proximity to town means you can easily find places to refuel before or after your hike.
Most popular routes in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve
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