5 Best Hiking Trails in Olompali State Historical Park – Terrain, Difficulty, Accessibility, and Trail Features

Book Your Marin Trip Today
Flights | Hotels | Vacation Rentals | Rental Cars | Experiences

Olompali State Historic Park is a hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts in Marin County, California. This 700-acre park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history.

Located just north of Novato, it’s an ideal spot for outdoor adventures.

The park boasts several hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes.

You’ll find five excellent routes that showcase the best of Olompali’s natural wonders and historical sites.

From easy walks to more challenging treks, there’s something for every skill level.

Olompali Trail is a popular choice for its scenic views and historical landmarks. As you explore, you’ll discover remnants of Miwok villages and early California ranches.

The park’s trails offer a perfect escape into nature, just a short drive from the bustling Bay Area.

Table of Contents

1. Olompali Trail

The Olompali Trail offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. You’ll find diverse landscapes and interesting sights along the way.

Difficulty

The trail is rated as moderately challenging. It has some steep sections and uneven terrain.

You’ll need a decent fitness level to enjoy this hike comfortably.

Proper footwear is a must. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes with good traction will help you navigate the trail safely.

Length And Estimated Time

The Olompali Trail is a 2.9-mile loop. Most hikers complete it in about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Your pace may vary based on fitness level and how often you stop to take in the views or read interpretive signs.

Allow extra time if you plan to explore historical sites along the way.

Key Features

The trail offers a mix of open grasslands and oak woodlands. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay.

Key features include:

Historic Olompali village site
Diverse plant and animal life
Burdell Mountain vistas
Native American grinding rocks

Keep an eye out for wildlife. You might spot deer, birds, and small mammals along the trail.

Best Times To Visit

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking conditions. Wildflowers bloom in spring, adding color to the landscape.

Summer can be hot, so start early if hiking then. Winter brings lush green hills but can be muddy after rain.

Weekdays are less crowded. Early mornings provide the best chance to spot wildlife.

Parking

A parking lot is available at the trailhead. It’s not very large, so arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.

The lot is paved and well-maintained. There’s a small fee to park, so bring cash or a credit card.

Safety Tips

Carry plenty of water, especially in warm weather
Watch for poison oak along the trail edges
Be aware of uneven terrain and exposed roots
Check for ticks after your hike
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment

Cell phone coverage can be spotty. Let someone know your hiking plans before you start.

Historical Notes

The trail passes through areas once inhabited by Coast Miwok people. You’ll see grinding rocks they used to process acorns.

The Olompali village site dates back thousands of years. It’s one of the longest continually inhabited Native American settlements in California.

Interpretive signs along the trail provide more details about the area’s rich history.

Amenities

Basic amenities are available at the trailhead:

Restrooms
Water fountains
Picnic tables
Interpretive displays

There’s no visitor center, so come prepared with maps and information.

Usage Information

The trail is multi-use. You may encounter:

Hikers
Runners
Equestrians

Dogs are allowed on leash. Be sure to clean up after your pet.

Mountain bikes are not permitted on this particular trail.

Trail Connections

The Olompali Trail connects to other paths in the park:

Miwok Trail
Burdell Mountain Fire Road

These connections allow for longer hikes if you want to explore more of the park.

You can create loop hikes by combining different trails. Check a park map for options that suit your skill level and time constraints.

2. Miwok To Upper Mt Burdell Trail

The Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding area. This loop trail takes you through diverse landscapes and up to the summit of Mount Burdell.

Difficulty

This trail is rated as moderately challenging. It has steep sections and uneven terrain in parts.

You’ll need a good level of fitness to complete the hike comfortably.

The trail climbs steadily to the summit of Mount Burdell. Some rocky areas require careful footing. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must.

Length And Estimated Time

The Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail is a 9.6-mile loop. Most hikers take about 4 to 5 hours to complete the full circuit.

Plan for extra time if you want to stop and enjoy the views or take photos.

The trail’s length makes it a good option for a half-day or full-day hike, depending on your pace.

Key Features

Mount Burdell’s summit offers panoramic views of the Bay Area. On clear days, you can see San Francisco, the East Bay, and Mount Tamalpais.

The trail passes through oak woodlands and open grasslands. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the path.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and birds.

Best Times To Visit

Spring is ideal for this hike. Wildflowers are in bloom and temperatures are mild.

Fall offers pleasant hiking weather and clear skies for distant views.

Summer can be hot on exposed sections of the trail. Start early to avoid midday heat. Winter brings mud and slippery conditions, so use caution if hiking then.

Parking

Parking is available at the Olompali State Historic Park entrance. The lot has space for about 20 cars. Arrive early on weekends to ensure a spot.

If the main lot is full, limited street parking may be available nearby. Check signs for any restrictions.

Safety Tips

Bring plenty of water. There are no water sources on the trail.
Wear sun protection. Many sections of the trail are exposed.
Check the weather forecast before you go. Avoid hiking in extreme heat or during storms.
Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time.
Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid getting lost.
Be aware of poison oak along some parts of the trail.

Historical Notes

The trail passes through Olompali State Historic Park. This area has a rich history dating back to Miwok Native American settlements.

The name “Olompali” comes from the Miwok language. It may mean “southern village” or “southern people.”

Mount Burdell is named after Galen Burdell, a dentist who owned the land in the 1800s.

Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Olompali State Historic Park entrance.
There’s a small visitor center near the parking area with trail maps and information.
No drinking water is available on the trail. Bring all you need.
There are a few benches along the trail for resting.

Usage Information

The trail is open to hikers and runners.

Mountain bikes are not allowed on this specific trail.

Dogs are not permitted on the Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail. Leave your furry friends at home for this hike.

The trail can get busy on weekends. For a quieter experience, try hiking on weekdays.

Trail Connections

The Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail connects with several other paths in the area. You can extend your hike by linking to:

The Miwok Loop Trail for a shorter option
Burdell Mountain Fire Road for more mountain views
Olompali Trail to explore more of the state park

These connections allow you to customize your hike length and difficulty.

3. Michako Trail, Burdell Mountain Fire Road, And Eagle Rim Loop

The Michako Trail, Burdell Mountain Fire Road, and Eagle Rim Loop offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the bay and surrounding peaks. This trail explores diverse landscapes and provides a great workout for experienced hikers.

Difficulty

The trail is rated as moderate to difficult. It includes steep climbs and uneven terrain. Hikers should be in good physical condition and prepared for a challenging trek.

The elevation gain is significant, with some sections requiring careful footing.

Sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Trekking poles can be helpful, especially on steep descents.

Length And Estimated Time

The loop is 9.6 miles long. Most hikers complete it in about 4 to 5 hours.

Your pace may vary depending on fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views or take photos.

Plan for a full day hike to allow time for breaks and sightseeing.

Key Features

The trail offers panoramic views of San Pablo Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains. You’ll pass through oak woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral.

Wildlife sightings are common. You might see deer, birds of prey, and various small mammals. In spring, wildflowers carpet the hillsides with vibrant colors.

The loop includes several scenic overlooks. These make great spots for picnics or photography. The varied terrain keeps the hike interesting throughout.

Best Times To Visit

Spring (March to May) is ideal for wildflower viewing and mild temperatures.

Fall (September to November) offers pleasant hiking weather and clear skies.

Summer can be hot and dry. If hiking in summer, start early and bring extra water. Winter can be muddy and slippery after rains.

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Early mornings offer the best chance for wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures.

Parking

A small parking lot is available at the trailhead. It can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.

Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on busy days. There is no fee for parking.

If the lot is full, limited street parking may be available nearby. Always check for parking restrictions and be respectful of local residents.

Safety Tips

Carry plenty of water. There are no water sources on the trail.
Wear sunscreen and a hat. Much of the trail is exposed.
Watch for poison oak, especially along narrow sections.
Be aware of your surroundings. Mountain lions are rarely seen but present in the area.
Check the weather forecast before your hike. Avoid the trail during thunderstorms.
Let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time.

Historical Notes

The trail passes through land once inhabited by Coast Miwok people.

Some sections follow old ranch roads from the area’s ranching era.

The stone wall near the summit dates back to the 1870s.

It was built by Chinese laborers without mortar and marks the boundary of Olompali State Historic Park.

Amenities

There are no restrooms or water fountains on the trail.

The nearest facilities are at the park entrance.

A small picnic area is available near the trailhead.

It’s a good spot for a pre-hike snack or post-hike rest.

Usage Information

The trail is open to hikers and mountain bikers.

Be alert for bikes, especially on fire roads and downhill sections.

Dogs are allowed on leash.

Remember to clean up after your pet and keep them under control.

The trail can be busy on weekends.

Follow trail etiquette by yielding to uphill hikers and staying on marked paths.

Trail Connections

The loop connects with several other trails in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve.

You can extend your hike by linking to the San Carlos Fire Road or Middle Burdell Fire Road.

For a longer adventure, parts of this loop are on the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

This allows for multi-day hiking options.

The trail also provides access to Olompali State Historic Park.

Consider adding a visit to the park’s historic sites to your hiking day.

4. Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry And Michako Loop

The Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry and Michako Loop offers a mix of challenging terrain and stunning views.

This popular trail takes you through diverse landscapes and provides a great workout.

Difficulty

The trail is rated as moderate.

It has some steep sections and uneven terrain.

You’ll need a good level of fitness to complete the loop comfortably.

Wear sturdy hiking boots for better traction on loose gravel and rocky areas.

Length And Estimated Time

The loop is about 5.5 miles long.

Most hikers complete it in 2.5 to 3 hours.

Plan for extra time if you want to stop and enjoy the views or take photos.

The trail’s length makes it suitable for a half-day hike.

Key Features

You’ll experience diverse scenery on this loop.

The trail passes through oak-studded grasslands and impressive forests.

Some of the oldest oak and bay trees in Marin County grow here.

The highlight is the summit, which rises 1,558 feet above sea level.

From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Bay Area.

On clear days, you can see for miles in all directions.

Best Times To Visit

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking conditions.

Wildflowers bloom in spring, adding color to the landscape. Fall brings cooler temperatures and clearer skies.

Summer can be hot with little shade on many parts of the trail.

If hiking in summer, start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.

Winter can be muddy after rains, but offers green hillsides and flowing creeks.

Parking

The trailhead has a small parking lot off San Andreas Drive.

It fills up quickly on weekends and holidays.

Arrive early to secure a spot.

There’s no overflow parking nearby, so have a backup plan if the lot is full.

Safety Tips

Bring plenty of water, especially in warm weather. There are no water sources on the trail.
Use sun protection. Much of the trail is exposed with little shade.
Watch for poison oak along the trail edges.
Be aware of your surroundings. Mountain lions live in the area, though sightings are rare.
Check the weather forecast before you go. The trail can be slippery after rain.

Historical Notes

The area has a rich history.

Native Miwok people lived here for thousands of years before European settlement.

In the 1800s, the land was used for cattle ranching. Old fence lines and ranch buildings can still be seen along parts of the trail.

Amenities

There are no restrooms or water fountains on the trail.

The nearest facilities are at the park entrance, about a mile from the trailhead.

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

Usage Information

The trail is popular with hikers and trail runners.

Mountain bikers also use the fire roads. Be prepared to share the trail and follow proper etiquette.

Book Your Marin Trip Today
Flights | Hotels | Vacation Rentals | Rental Cars | Experiences

Dogs are allowed on leash.

Keep them under control and clean up after them.

Trail Connections

From this loop, you can connect to other trails in Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve.

The Michako Trail offers a more challenging route to the summit. The Old Quarry Trail provides a gentler option with interesting rock formations.

5. Michako Trail, San Carlos Fire Road, And Middle Burdell Fire Road Loop

The Michako Trail, San Carlos Fire Road, and Middle Burdell Fire Road Loop offers a scenic hike through Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve.

This trail gives you amazing views of the bay and surrounding peaks.

Difficulty

This loop trail is rated as moderate.

The trail has some uphill sections, but they are not too steep.

The path is wide and well-maintained, making it good for hikers of different skill levels.

You’ll find some rocky areas, so wear sturdy shoes.

The trail is not too hard, but it’s long enough to give you a good workout.

Length And Estimated Time

The loop is 4.5 miles long.

Most hikers finish it in about 2 hours and 6 minutes.

This length is perfect for a half-day hike.

You’ll have time to enjoy the views and take breaks. If you’re a fast hiker, you might finish sooner.

Key Features

The trail offers beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay.

You’ll see rolling hills covered in oak trees.

In spring, wildflowers bloom along the path.

As you hike, look out for:

Oak-studded hills
Bay views
Ridge vistas
Seasonal wildflowers

The wide fire roads make for easy walking.

You’ll get a mix of sun and shade as you go through wooded areas.

Best Times To Visit

The trail is open year-round. Each season offers something special:

Spring: Wildflowers bloom and the hills are green.
Summer: Clear days give the best bay views.
Fall: Cooler temps make for nice hiking weather.
Winter: You might see newts after rain.

Early morning or late afternoon are good times to avoid the hottest part of the day. Weekday visits are less crowded.

Parking

There’s a parking lot at the trailhead off San Andreas Drive.

It’s free to park here. The lot isn’t very big, so it can fill up on busy days.

If the main lot is full, look for street parking nearby. Always check for any parking rules or signs.

Safety Tips

Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days.
Wear sunscreen and a hat. Parts of the trail have little shade.
Watch for poison oak along the trail edges.
Be aware of wildlife. You might see deer or coyotes.
Check the weather before you go. Avoid the trail if it’s very wet.
Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

Historical Notes

Mount Burdell has been used for ranching since the 1800s.

The fire roads you’ll hike on were made to help manage the land.

Native American Miwok people lived in this area long ago.

As you hike, think about the long history of human use of this land.

Amenities

The trail has few amenities. Here’s what you need to know:

No restrooms on the trail
No water fountains available
Bring all the water and snacks you’ll need
There’s a map at the trailhead

The nearest facilities are in Novato. Plan ahead for your comfort.

Usage Information

Dogs are allowed on leash
Bikes are allowed on the fire roads
Horses can use the trail too
The trail is shared, so be ready to yield

Be nice to other trail users. Say hello when you pass people. Move to the side to let others pass when needed.

Olompali State Historical Park Local Regulations And Trail Etiquette

When hiking at Olompali State Historical Park, you need to follow some rules to protect the park and its history.

The park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. You must leave by closing time. A parking fee is required.

Respect the park’s rich history. The area was home to Coast Miwok people for thousands of years. Don’t disturb any artifacts you might find.

Stay on marked trails to protect plants and prevent erosion.

The Olompali Trail is popular for hiking and horseback riding.

Keep dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Clean up after your pet.

Don’t remove plants, animals, or objects from the park. This includes rocks and flowers.

Be quiet near the Burdell Mansion and other historic sites. These areas are important for understanding the park’s past.

Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. The trails can be steep and hot in summer.

Use trash cans or pack out your garbage. This helps keep the park clean for everyone.

Watch for wildlife like deer and birds. Don’t feed or approach them.

Campfires are not allowed due to fire risk. Use designated picnic areas for eating.

Remember, you’re visiting the ancestral lands of indigenous people. Show respect for their culture and history.

Getting To Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park is easy to reach and offers convenient access for hikers.

You’ll find clear directions and parking options to start your adventure.

By Car

Olompali State Historical Park is located just north of Novato in Marin County.

The park entrance is right off Highway 101, making it simple to find.

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north for about 30 miles.

Look for the park entrance on your right, about 3 miles north of the Atherton Avenue exit in Novato.

If you’re coming from the north, take Highway 101 south.

The park entrance will be on your left, about 8 miles south of Petaluma.

Public Transportation

While driving is the easiest way to reach Olompali, there are public transit options available.

Golden Gate Transit offers bus service from San Francisco to Novato.

Take Route 101 and get off at the Atherton Avenue stop. From there, it’s about a 3-mile walk or bike ride to the park entrance.

Sonoma County Transit also has a bus route that stops near the park.

Take Route 44 and get off at the San Antonio Road stop. The park is about a 1-mile walk from there.

Parking Information

Olompali State Historical Park has a main parking lot near the entrance. It can fit about 50 cars and is paved.

The parking fee is $8 per vehicle. You can pay with cash or credit card at the self-pay station.

Arrive early on weekends and holidays, as the lot can fill up. There’s no overflow parking available.

If you have a California State Parks pass, you can use it here for free parking.

Remember to display your parking receipt on your dashboard to avoid getting a ticket.

Preparing For Your Hike

Getting ready for your hike at Olompali State Historic Park is key to a safe and fun experience.

The right gear, weather awareness, and fitness prep can make all the difference on the trails.

Essential Gear

Proper gear is vital for a good hike at Olompali. Here’s what you need:

Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes
A backpack to carry supplies
Plenty of water (at least 1 liter per 2 hours of hiking)
Snacks or a packed lunch
Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection
A map of the park (available at the entrance)
A fully charged cell phone
First aid kit with basics like bandages and pain relievers

For longer hikes on trails like the Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail, add these items:

Trekking poles for steep sections
Extra layers of clothing
A headlamp or flashlight (in case you’re out later than planned)

Weather Considerations

Olompali’s weather can impact your hike. Keep these tips in mind:

Check the forecast before you go
Summers are hot and dry – start early and bring extra water
Winters can be wet and muddy – wear waterproof boots
Spring and fall offer the best hiking weather
Fog can roll in quickly, especially on higher trails like Michako Trail, Burdell Mountain Fire Road, and Eagle Rim Loop

Be ready for sudden changes. Pack a light jacket even on warm days. The park’s location near San Pablo Bay can bring cool breezes.

Fitness Levels

Olompali trails vary in difficulty. Match the trail to your fitness level:

Olompali Trail is good for beginners
Longer routes like Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry and Michako Loop need more stamina

To prepare:

Start with shorter hikes and work up to longer ones
Build endurance with regular walks or jogs
Practice hiking uphill if you plan to tackle Mount Burdell
Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed

Remember, it’s okay to turn back if a trail feels too tough. Safety comes first on any hike.

Wildlife And Plant Life In Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. You’ll find many native plants thriving in the park’s varied habitats.

The park’s native plant garden showcases local flora. Here, you can see examples of plants that have been important to the Miwok people for centuries.

Keep an eye out for colorful wildflowers in spring. The hillsides come alive with blooms, adding splashes of color to your hike.

Birds are plentiful in Olompali. You might spot hawks soaring overhead or hear the calls of woodpeckers in the trees.

The park’s location near San Pablo Bay makes it a great spot for birdwatching.

Mammals like deer, rabbits, and squirrels are common sights. You may even glimpse a coyote if you’re lucky.

The park’s varied landscape includes oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian areas. Each habitat supports different plant and animal communities.

As you hike the Olompali Trail, take in the views of the Petaluma River valley. The river provides important habitat for many species.

Remember to respect wildlife by observing from a distance. Leave plants undisturbed so others can enjoy them too.

Photography Tips For Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park offers great chances for nature and history photos. Here are some tips to help you get the best shots:

• Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the park’s sweeping views. The Olompali Trail has many scenic overlooks perfect for landscape photography.

• Use a macro lens for close-ups of wildflowers in spring. The meadows along the Miwok to Upper Mt Burdell Trail are great spots for this.

• Pack a tripod for steady shots in low light, like inside historic buildings or for sunset photos.

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. The golden hour casts a warm glow on the park’s historic structures.

• Look for unique angles when photographing the old Burdell mansion and barn. Try framing them with tree branches or flowers in the foreground.

• Capture wildlife from a distance using a telephoto lens. The park is home to deer, birds, and other animals.

• Don’t forget to photograph the small details that tell the park’s story, like old farm equipment or Native American artifacts in the visitor center.

• Be respectful of other visitors and don’t block trails while taking photos. Always stay on marked paths to protect the environment.

Remember to check park rules about photography before your visit. Some areas may have restrictions to protect sensitive habitats or cultural sites.

Family-Friendly Options For Hiking Olompali State Historical Park

Olompali State Historical Park offers great hiking options for families. The park has trails suitable for kids of all ages.

The Olompali Trail is a top pick for families. This 2.9-mile loop is moderately challenging but doable for most kids. It takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas. There are several picnic tables scattered throughout, perfect for a break during your hike.

For a shorter walk, try the Miwok Loop Trail. At 2.4 miles, it’s a good length for younger children. The trail offers nice views and passes by historic sites.

Here are some family-friendly hiking tips for Olompali:

Bring plenty of water and snacks
Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection
Start early to avoid the heat
Take frequent breaks at picnic areas
Look out for wildlife like birds and deer

The park has restrooms near the parking lot. This makes it easy to take bathroom breaks before and after your hike.

Accessibility Information

Olompali State Historic Park offers some accessible trails and facilities. Here’s what you need to know:

The Olompali Trail is partly accessible. It has a wide, flat section near the parking area that’s good for wheelchairs and strollers.

The park has accessible parking spaces near the main entrance. These spots are close to the visitor center and restrooms.

Accessible restrooms are available near the parking lot. They’re open during park hours.

Some picnic areas have accessible tables. These are on flat ground near the parking area.

The visitor center has wheelchair access. You can learn about the park’s history and get trail info here.

Not all trails are accessible. Upper mountain trails are steep and narrow. They’re not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

If you need help, park staff can give you more info on accessible areas. They’re at the entrance kiosk during open hours.

Remember to check the park’s website before you visit. Trail conditions can change, especially after bad weather.

Local Resources

Olompali State Historic Park offers helpful resources for hikers. The park has facilities and contacts to support your visit. You can also find useful online tools for planning your trip.

Visitor Centers

The park has a small visitor center near the entrance. It’s open on weekends from 10 AM to 3 PM.

Here you can:

• Get trail maps and park information

• Learn about the park’s history

• Use restrooms

• Fill water bottles

The center has exhibits on Miwok culture and early California ranching. Friendly staff can answer your questions about trails and park rules.

Emergency Contacts

Keep these numbers handy in case of emergency:

• Park office: (415) 892-3383

• Marin County Sheriff: 911 or (415) 479-2311

• Cal Fire (for wildfires): 911 or (707) 576-2275

Cell service can be spotty in parts of the park. Tell someone your hiking plans before you go. Bring a fully charged phone and consider a portable charger.