5 Best Hiking Trails in Blithedale Summit Preserve – Terrain, Difficulty, Accessibility, and Trail Features

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Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve offers some of the best hiking trails in Marin County. This beautiful natural park has options for both casual walkers and serious hikers.

You’ll find paths with amazing views, shady forests, and even waterfalls.

The preserve has 11 great trails for hiking, walking, and bird watching. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes with steep climbs.

The trails offer different levels of difficulty, so you can pick one that matches your skills and fitness.

When you visit, you might want to try the Dawn Falls Trail Loop. It’s a popular choice that lets you see a nice waterfall.

For a longer hike with great views, check out the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail.

No matter which path you choose, you’ll get to enjoy the natural beauty of Blithedale Summit.

Table of Contents

1. Baltimore Canyon Via Dawn Falls Trail Loop

The Baltimore Canyon via Dawn Falls Trail Loop offers hikers a diverse experience through forested areas, up to a waterfall, and along scenic ridges. This trail showcases the natural beauty of Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve.

Difficulty

This trail is rated as moderately challenging. It involves some steep sections and uneven terrain.

You’ll encounter switchbacks and a few rocky areas that require careful footing.

The elevation gain is significant, so be prepared for a good workout.

Hiking poles can be helpful, especially on the steeper parts of the trail.

Length and Estimated Time

The loop is approximately 5.9 miles long. Most hikers complete the trail in about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the views or take photos.

Plan for extra time if you want to spend more time at Dawn Falls or take breaks along the way.

The trail’s varied terrain means some sections may take longer than others.

Key Features

The main highlight of this trail is Dawn Falls, a beautiful waterfall that’s especially impressive after rainfall. You’ll hike through lush redwood groves and oak woodlands.

The trail offers scenic viewpoints of Mount Tamalpais and the surrounding hills.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and small mammals.

Near the top of the loop, you’ll find panoramic views of the area. The diverse plant life changes as you gain elevation, providing an interesting botanical experience.

Best Times to Visit

Spring is ideal for seeing Dawn Falls at its fullest and enjoying wildflowers along the trail.

Fall offers pleasant hiking weather and changing leaf colors.

Winter can be muddy but offers the chance to see the waterfall at its most powerful.

Summer provides drier trails but can be hot, especially on exposed sections.

Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid peak heat and crowds.

Weekdays are typically less busy than weekends.

Parking

Parking is limited near the trailhead. There are about 5 spots close to the trail’s start, with a few more spaces further down the road.

For a slightly longer hike, you can park near Foley Avenue and start from the lower trail. This adds about 2 miles to your total distance.

Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure a spot. Be respectful of local residents when parking on neighborhood streets.

Safety Tips

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Parts of the trail can be slippery, especially after rain.

Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trail. A minimum of 2 liters per person is recommended.

Check the weather forecast before you go.

The trail can be dangerous during heavy rains due to the risk of falling branches and slippery conditions.

Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid getting lost.

Cell phone reception can be spotty in some areas.

Historical Notes

The Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve was established to protect the area’s natural beauty and ecosystem. It’s named after the Baltimore Canyon, a geological feature formed over millions of years.

The area was once home to logging operations in the late 19th century. Some remnants of this history can still be seen along the trail.

Amenities

There are no restrooms or water fountains along the trail. The closest facilities are in nearby Larkspur.

Benches are placed at a few viewpoints, offering spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.

There are no trash cans on the trail, so be prepared to pack out all your waste.

Usage Information

Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. Pick up after your pet to maintain the trail’s cleanliness.

The trail is popular for hiking and trail running. Mountain biking is not allowed on this particular loop.

Be prepared to share the trail with other users, especially on weekends.

Practice good trail etiquette by yielding to uphill hikers and staying to the right.

Trail Connections

The Baltimore Canyon via Dawn Falls Trail Loop connects with several other trails in the area. You can extend your hike by linking up with the Southern Marin Line Fire Road.

For a longer adventure, you can connect to the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail or explore other parts of the Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve.

Consider combining this loop with nearby trails for a full day of hiking.

Always check trail maps and your fitness level before attempting longer routes.

2. Dawn Falls Trail Loop

The Dawn Falls Trail Loop is a beautiful hike in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve. You’ll enjoy scenic views, a waterfall, and diverse plant life along this popular trail.

Difficulty

This trail is rated as moderate. It has some steep sections and uneven terrain.

You’ll need to be in decent physical shape to complete the loop comfortably.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction for the best experience.

Length and Estimated Time

The loop is 2.7 miles long. Most hikers take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete it.

Your pace may vary depending on how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or take photos.

Key Features

Dawn Falls is the main attraction on this trail. The 30-foot waterfall is most impressive after rain.

You’ll hike through a lush forest with redwoods, bay trees, and ferns. The trail offers some nice views of the surrounding hills.

Look out for:

Dawn Falls
Redwood groves
Fern-covered hillsides
Creek crossings
Panoramic viewpoints

Best Times to Visit

Spring is the best season to hike this trail. The waterfall is flowing, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather is mild.

Fall offers beautiful foliage colors. Summer can be hot and dry, while winter may be muddy and slippery.

Weekday mornings are less crowded. If you visit on weekends, arrive early to beat the crowds and find parking.

Parking

Parking is limited near the trailhead. You can park along Madrone Avenue in Larkspur.

Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot. Be respectful of residents and don’t block driveways.

There’s no official parking lot, so follow local parking signs carefully.

Safety Tips

Stay on marked trails to avoid poison oak.
Watch your footing on steep and uneven sections.
Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
Check the weather forecast before you go.
Tell someone your hiking plans.
Carry a basic first aid kit.
Be aware of wildlife, including mountain lions and rattlesnakes.

Historical Notes

The trail is part of the Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve. This area was once logging land in the late 1800s.

You might spot old-growth redwood stumps along the trail, remnants of this logging history.

Amenities

This is a natural trail with minimal amenities. There are no restrooms or water fountains along the route.

The nearest facilities are in downtown Larkspur, about a mile from the trailhead.

Pack out all your trash as there are no garbage cans on the trail.

Usage Information

The trail is popular for hiking and trail running. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash.

The narrow trail isn’t suitable for mountain biking. Be prepared to share the trail with other hikers, especially on weekends.

Trail Connections

From the Dawn Falls Trail Loop, you can connect to other trails in the preserve.

The Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail links up with this loop, offering a longer hiking option.

You can also reach the Southern Marin Line Fire Road for extended adventures.

3. Dawn Falls and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop

The Dawn Falls and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop offers a mix of shady redwood forests and open ridge views. This trail takes you through beautiful landscapes and to a small waterfall.

Difficulty

The trail is rated as moderate. It has some steep sections and switchbacks.

You’ll face both uphill and downhill segments. The path can be narrow and uneven in places, so good footwear is a must.

Length and Estimated Time

The loop is about 5 miles long. Most hikers complete it in 2-3 hours. Your pace may vary based on how often you stop to enjoy the views or rest.

Key Features

Dawn Falls: A small but pretty waterfall, best viewed after rain
Redwood groves: Tall trees provide shade and a cool atmosphere
Ridge views: Panoramic vistas of Mill Valley from higher points
Creek crossings: Small bridges help you cross the creek

The trail starts in a shaded canyon and climbs to more open areas. You’ll enjoy diverse plant life and possibly spot local wildlife.

Best Times to Visit

Spring is ideal for wildflowers and flowing water at Dawn Falls.

Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Summer can be hot on exposed sections, while winter brings lush greenery but muddy trails.

Weekday mornings are quieter. Weekends can be busy, especially near the trailhead.

Parking

Parking is limited at the Dawn Falls trailhead. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

There’s no formal parking lot, so be mindful of residential areas and posted signs.

Safety Tips

Bring plenty of water, especially for hot days
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction
Watch for poison oak along narrow sections
Be cautious on steep, uneven terrain
Check weather forecasts before your hike

Tell someone your plans before heading out. Cell service can be spotty in some areas.

Historical Notes

The trail passes through Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve. This area was protected in the 1970s to preserve its natural beauty and watershed.

The name “Hoo-Koo-E-Koo” comes from local Native American language.

Amenities

There are no restrooms or water fountains on the trail. The nearest facilities are in downtown Mill Valley.

Pack out all trash as there are no garbage cans along the route.

Usage Information

Dogs are allowed on leash
The trail is shared with mountain bikers in some sections
No motorized vehicles are permitted
Stay on marked trails to protect plant life

Be respectful of other trail users and yield to uphill hikers.

Trail Connections

The Dawn Falls and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop connects to other trails in the area:

Blithedale Ridge Fire Road
Southern Marin Line Fire Road
Corte Madera Trail

These connections allow for longer hikes or alternative routes.

Check a trail map for details on extending your hike.

4. Blithdale Loop

Blithdale Loop offers a diverse hiking experience in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve. This trail takes you through redwood groves and provides scenic views of the bay and Marin Hills.

Difficulty

The Blithdale Loop is rated as moderate. It has steep sections and some rough terrain.

You’ll need to be in good physical condition to tackle this trail.

Sturdy hiking boots are recommended due to the uneven ground. Some parts of the trail can be slippery, especially after rain.

Length and Estimated Time

The loop is about 5.5 miles long.

It usually takes 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

If you’re a slower hiker or plan to take lots of photos, allow for up to 4 hours.

The trail’s varied terrain and elevation changes can impact your speed.

Key Features

Blithdale Loop showcases the natural beauty of Marin County.

You’ll walk through lush redwood forests with ferns carpeting the ground.

The trail offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and surrounding Marin Hills. In spring, you can enjoy colorful wildflower displays along the path.

Look out for local wildlife. Birds, deer, and small mammals are often spotted in the preserve.

Best Times to Visit

Spring is ideal for hiking Blithdale Loop. The weather is mild and wildflowers are in bloom.

Fall offers pleasant temperatures and changing leaf colors.

Summer can be hot, so start early in the day. Winter hikes can be muddy after rain, but the waterfalls are more impressive.

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photos.

Parking

Parking for Blithdale Loop is available near Dolliver Park on Madrone Road.

The lot is small, so arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

Street parking is also available in the neighborhood. Be respectful of residents and follow local parking rules.

There’s no parking fee, but spaces are limited. Carpooling is encouraged, especially during peak times.

Safety Tips

Carry plenty of water, especially on hot days. The trail has limited shade in some sections.

Watch your footing on steep and uneven parts of the trail. Trekking poles can be helpful for balance.

Check the weather forecast before you go. Fog can roll in quickly, reducing visibility.

Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time. Cell phone coverage can be spotty in some areas.

Historical Notes

Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve was established in 1977. It’s part of the larger network of Marin County open spaces.

The area was once logged for redwood timber. Today, it’s protected for recreation and wildlife habitat.

Native American tribes, including the Coast Miwok, inhabited this region for thousands of years before European settlement.

Amenities

There are no restrooms or water fountains on the trail. Use facilities in nearby Mill Valley before starting your hike.

Benches are placed at some viewpoints along the trail. These offer spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.

There are no trash cans on the trail. Pack out all your garbage to keep the preserve clean.

Usage Information

Dogs are allowed on Blithdale Loop but must be kept on a leash. Bring waste bags and clean up after your pet.

The trail is shared with mountain bikers. Stay alert and yield to bikes when necessary.

Horses are also permitted on some sections. Be prepared to encounter equestrians on the wider fire roads.

Trail Connections

Blithdale Loop connects to several other trails in the preserve. You can extend your hike by linking to the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail or Dawn Falls Trail.

For a longer adventure, you can connect to the Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve via the Dawn Falls Trail Loop.

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The loop is part of a larger network of trails in Marin County. Experienced hikers can plan multi-day treks using this as a starting point.

5. Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail

The Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail offers a mix of wide-open views and dense forest sections. It starts as a level fire road and then climbs through redwoods, providing a varied hiking experience.

Difficulty

The Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail is rated as moderate. It has some steep sections that can be challenging for beginners.

The trail surface varies from smooth fire roads to narrower paths with roots and rocks.

You’ll need a good level of fitness to enjoy this hike. Proper footwear is a must, as some parts can be slippery when wet.

Length and Estimated Time

The trail is about 4.1 miles long. Most hikers complete it in 2 to 3 hours.

This time can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views or rest.

If you’re a fast hiker, you might finish in under 2 hours. For a more relaxed pace with photo stops, plan for up to 3.5 hours.

Key Features

Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail offers a mix of open spaces and forest sections. You’ll see:

Wide-open views of the surrounding hills
Dense stands of towering redwoods
Patches of bay trees and lush ferns
Wildflowers in spring

The trail starts on a level fire road with panoramic views. It then winds through a steep redwood forest before narrowing into a single-track path.

Best Times to Visit

Spring and fall are ideal for hiking Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail.

In spring, you’ll see wildflowers and lush green vegetation. Fall offers cooler temperatures and clear skies.

Summer can be hot on exposed sections. Winter can be muddy and slippery, but offers peaceful solitude.

Early mornings are great for avoiding crowds and heat. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.

Parking

Parking for Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail is limited. The main lot is at the Crown Road trailhead. It’s small and fills up quickly on weekends.

Arrive early to secure a spot. If the lot is full, you may find street parking nearby.

Always check for parking signs and restrictions.

Safety Tips

Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction
Be aware of poison oak along the trail edges
Watch for mountain bikers on shared sections
Check the weather forecast before you go
Let someone know your hiking plans

Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and prevent getting lost.

Cell phone coverage can be spotty in some areas.

Historical Notes

The Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail is named after a local Native American tribe. The area has a rich history of indigenous use and later logging activities.

The trail passes through land that was once part of large ranches. It became part of the Marin County Open Space District in the 1970s.

Amenities

Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail has limited amenities. There are no restrooms or water fountains along the trail. The closest facilities are in nearby towns.

You’ll find:

Trailhead sign with map
Some benches along the route for resting
No trash cans, so pack out all your waste

Usage Information

Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail is open to hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. Dogs are allowed on leash. The trail can get busy on weekends and holidays.

Hikers should yield to horses and mountain bikers should yield to both hikers and horses.

Be prepared to step aside on narrow sections.

Trail Connections

Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail connects to several other paths in the area. You can link it with:

Southern Marin Line Fire Road
Blithedale Ridge Fire Road
Dawn Falls Trail

These connections allow for longer hikes or loop options.

The Dawn Falls and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop is a popular extended route.

Blithedale Summit Preserve Local Regulations and Trail Etiquette

When hiking in Blithedale Summit Preserve, you need to follow some rules to protect the area and enjoy your visit safely.

Trail hours: The preserve is open from sunrise to sunset.

Plan your hike to finish before dark.

Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Clean up after your pet and carry out waste bags.

Stay on trails: Stick to marked paths to protect plants and prevent erosion.

Don’t create new trails or take shortcuts.

Wildlife: Watch animals from a distance.

Don’t feed or disturb them.

Fire safety: No smoking or fires allowed in the preserve.

Be extra careful during dry seasons.

Trash: Pack out all your garbage. Leave no trace of your visit.

Noise: Keep voices down to respect wildlife and other hikers.

No loud music.

Bikes: Cyclists must yield to hikers and horses.

Stay in control and don’t exceed 15 mph.

Horses: Equestrians have the right of way.

Move to the side of the trail when horses approach.

Parking: Use designated lots only.

Don’t block roads or driveways.

Groups: Large groups should split into smaller ones to reduce trail impact.

Plant life: Don’t pick flowers or take plants. Leave nature as you find it.

Getting to Blithedale Summit Preserve

Blithedale Summit Preserve is easy to reach by car or public transportation. You’ll find ample parking options near the trailheads.

By Car

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Blithedale Summit Preserve.

From Mill Valley, take Corte Madera Avenue north.

Turn right onto Summit Avenue, which leads directly to the preserve.

The drive takes about 10 minutes from downtown Mill Valley.

If coming from San Francisco, expect a 30-40 minute trip across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Public Transportation

Marin Transit offers bus service to the area.

Take Route 4 from Mill Valley Depot to Summit Avenue. The bus stop is a short walk from the trailhead.

Buses run every 30-60 minutes during weekdays. Weekend service is less frequent.

Check the Marin Transit website for current schedules and fares.

Parking Information

Several parking areas serve Blithedale Summit Preserve’s popular trails:

Summit Avenue: Small lot at the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail entrance
Blithedale Avenue: Street parking near the Dawn Falls Trail Loop trailhead
Corte Madera Avenue: Limited roadside spots for Blithdale Loop access

Arrive early on weekends, as parking fills up quickly.

Respect neighborhood parking rules and avoid blocking driveways.

Preparing for Your Hike

Before hitting the trails in Blithedale Summit Preserve, it’s crucial to gather the right gear, check the weather, and assess your fitness level.

These steps will help ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Essential Gear

Proper gear is key for a successful hike. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing
Daypack
Water bottles or hydration system
Snacks and energy bars
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
First aid kit
Trail map and compass (or GPS device)
Hiking poles (optional, but helpful on steeper trails)

Don’t forget to pack a light jacket for cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

A whistle and flashlight are also smart additions for safety.

Weather Considerations

Blithedale Summit Preserve’s weather can change quickly. Keep these tips in mind:

Check the forecast before you go
Be prepared for fog, especially in the morning
Bring layers to adjust to temperature changes
Avoid hiking during heavy rain to prevent slippery conditions
Watch for signs of incoming storms

Summer can be hot and dry, so plan to hike early in the day. Winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain, making waterproof gear essential.

Fitness Levels

The trails in Blithedale Summit Preserve cater to various fitness levels. Here’s what to expect:

Beginner: Start with the Dawn Falls Trail Loop, a moderate 2.7-mile hike
Intermediate: Try the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail for a more challenging experience
Advanced: Tackle the Baltimore Canyon via Dawn Falls Trail Loop for a longer, more strenuous hike

Build up your endurance gradually if you’re new to hiking. Start with shorter trails and work your way up to longer, more challenging routes.

Wildlife and Plant Life in Blithedale Summit Preserve

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. You’ll find a diverse ecosystem teeming with life as you explore the trails.

The preserve is home to lush redwoods, maples, and buckeyes. These trees create a canopy that shelters a variety of plants and animals.

Wildflowers bloom in spring, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Keep an eye out for California poppies and lupines along the trails.

Wildlife is abundant in the preserve. You might spot:

Deer
Raccoons
Squirrels
Various bird species

Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of hawks, woodpeckers, and songbirds. The preserve’s varied habitats attract a wide range of avian visitors.

As you hike, you’ll notice the changing vegetation. Lower elevations feature bay trees and madrones, while higher areas showcase oak woodlands.

The preserve’s diverse plant life supports a complex ecosystem. It provides food and shelter for many animal species.

Remember to respect wildlife by observing from a distance.

Do not feed or approach animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors.

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers breathtaking sights of nature. You’ll enjoy peekaboo views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of San Quentin in the distance.

By protecting this natural area, you help preserve its biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.

Photography Tips for Blithedale Summit Preserve

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers great photo opportunities. Here are some tips to capture its beauty:

Bring a wide-angle lens to photograph the expansive views of the bay and Marin Hills from the Blithdale Loop trail.

Pack a macro lens for close-ups of spring wildflowers and ferns along the trails.

Early morning or late afternoon light creates warm, golden hues on the redwoods. This is ideal for dramatic shots.

Use a tripod for steady shots in low light conditions, especially under the dense tree canopy.

Rainy days can add mood to your photos. Capture misty trails and water droplets on leaves.

Consider these composition tips:

Frame views using tree branches or trunks
Include hikers for scale in landscape shots
Look for leading lines on winding trails

Remember to respect nature and other visitors.

Stay on designated trails and don’t disturb wildlife or plants for photos.

Protect your gear from moisture and dust. Bring a microfiber cloth to keep lenses clean.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip.

Foggy conditions can create atmospheric shots but may limit long-range views.

Family-Friendly Options for Hiking Blithedale Summit Preserve

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers great trails for families. You’ll find easy walks and fun adventures for kids of all ages.

The Dawn Falls Trail Loop is perfect for families. It’s a 2.7-mile loop with moderate difficulty. Kids will love seeing the waterfall and spotting local wildlife.

Another good choice is the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Trail. This trail is shorter and easier, making it great for little legs. You’ll enjoy nice views and shady spots along the way.

For a longer family hike, try the Dawn Falls and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop. This 5.1-mile trail combines two family-friendly routes.

Tips for family hikes in Blithedale Summit Preserve:

Bring plenty of water and snacks
Wear sturdy shoes
Start early to avoid midday heat
Take frequent breaks
Bring a map or use a trail app

Accessibility Information

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers varied trail conditions. Some paths are challenging for those with mobility issues.

The Blithedale Loop has steep sections and rough terrain. You’ll need sturdy shoes for this hike.

For an easier option, try the Dawn Falls Trail Loop. It’s more level and suitable for a wider range of abilities.

Keep in mind:

Most trails have natural surfaces with roots and rocks
Narrow paths may be hard for wheelchairs or strollers
Some areas have steep climbs and descents

Parking can be limited. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

There are no paved accessible trails in the preserve. But you can enjoy scenic views from some parking areas.

Always check current trail conditions before your visit. Weather can affect accessibility.

Remember to bring water and sun protection. The preserve has limited facilities, so plan accordingly.

Local Resources

Blithedale Summit Preserve offers several resources to help hikers plan and enjoy their trips. From visitor centers to emergency contacts, you’ll find the information you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Visitor Centers

The nearest visitor center is located at the Muir Woods National Monument. While not directly in Blithedale Summit Preserve, it’s a great stop for area information.

The center provides maps, trail guides, and up-to-date conditions for nearby hiking areas.

Park rangers are available to answer questions about local flora, fauna, and trail conditions. You can also pick up essentials like water bottles and sunscreen.

The center offers educational displays about the area’s ecology and history. It’s open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours during summer months.

Emergency Contacts

In case of emergencies while hiking in Blithedale Summit Preserve, it’s crucial to have the right contacts on hand.

• Emergency Services: Dial 911 for immediate assistance
• Marin County Sheriff: (415) 479-2311
• Park Rangers: (415) 473-2816

Save these numbers in your phone before setting out. Cell service can be spotty in some areas of the preserve, so it’s wise to inform someone of your hiking plans.

For non-emergency issues like trail maintenance concerns or wildlife sightings, contact the Marin County Parks office at (415) 473-6387.