The best road cycling routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve
4.4
(223)
9,614
riders
90
rides
Road cycling in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve offers diverse landscapes and panoramic views across Marin County. The preserve features rolling hills and a network of paved paths, including connections to the Sausalito-Mill Valley bike path through tidal wetlands. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from gentle gradients to routes with significant elevation gains, predominantly on paved surfaces. The area is known for its expansive vistas of the San Francisco Skyline, Richardson Bay, and Mount Tamalpais.
Best road cycling routes inβ¦
Last updated: July 10, 2026
86
riders
67.1km
03:12
700m
700m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
21.1km
00:58
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(2)
128
riders
31.0km
01:52
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(3)
98
riders
40.3km
02:25
690m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
78
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
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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The Pantoll Campground is a First-come/first-serve site in Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Each site has a barbeque grill, a fire ring, and a picnic table. You need to pay for the site at the Ranger Station as you enter the park.
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Now open for more than a hundred years, this inn welcomes visitors high on the flanks of Mount Tamalpais. The guestrooms mostly face east, but the grounds include great vantages to the west over the Bay. There's also a restaurant, and this has been voted one of the most romantic spots in the Bay Area several times over.
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This trail, part of the Pacific Coast Bike Trail (PCB), is a fantastic, mostly paved two-lane bike route that follows Lagunitas Creek under towering redwood forests and runs parallel to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard on the other side of the valley. It continues south from the campground all the way to the southern exit of the Park.
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This historic hotel with a long history, was built in 1912 by a Swiss-German immigrant couple who were homesick for their native Alps. It is perched on the ridge between the Mount Tamalpais peaks, high above Mill Valley, and boasts excellent views of Marin. It is a favorite spot to stay as a mountain getaway for outdoor enthusiasts in the Bay area, so much so that even celebrities like Goldie Hawn, the Grateful Dead and Jack London have stayed here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
Horse Hill Open Space Preserve offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 80 routes available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 38 easy, 34 moderate, and 16 difficult options.
What are the general characteristics of road cycling terrain in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
The preserve features diverse terrain, predominantly on paved surfaces. You'll find rolling hills and a network of dedicated paved bike paths, including connections to the Sausalito-Mill Valley bike path. While many routes are not overly steep, there are options with significant elevation gains for those seeking a challenge.
Are there any easy, family-friendly road cycling routes in the preserve?
Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. A popular choice is the Sausalito Path β Sausalito β Mill Valley Path loop from Alta, which is about 15 km long with minimal elevation, offering scenic views of the tidal wetlands. Another accessible option is the Camino Alto Road β Sausalito Path loop from Corte Madera.
What kind of views can I expect while road cycling in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
Horse Hill Open Space Preserve is renowned for its panoramic vistas. Cyclists can enjoy expansive views of the San Francisco Skyline, Richardson Bay, and Mount Tamalpais from various points along the routes. The Sausalito-Mill Valley bike path also offers scenic views of the Bothin Marsh Preserve's tidal wetlands.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
The road cycling routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paved paths, and the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Skyline and Mount Tamalpais.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking significant climbs and varied terrain, routes like the Sir Francis Drake and Cross Marin Trail Loop (67 km with over 700 meters of elevation gain) or the Pan Toll Road via Panoramic Highway (31 km with over 700 meters of elevation gain) offer a rewarding challenge.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Beyond the panoramic views, you can observe the distinctive horse pasture with fourteen horses. The adjacent Bothin Marsh Preserve showcases diverse ecosystems with cordgrass and pickleweed, supporting various shorebirds and waterfowl. During winter, seasonal springs appear, and in spring, hillsides burst with wildflowers like lupine and Douglas iris. Raptors like red-tailed hawks are also commonly seen overhead.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the preserve are designed as loops. For instance, the Muir Road & Marin Coastal Bikeway loop offers a moderate 40 km ride with significant elevation, providing a comprehensive tour of the area's features.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
The preserve offers enjoyable cycling year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful when the hillsides are vibrant with wildflowers. Winter brings seasonal springs, adding to the natural scenery. The mild climate of Marin County generally makes it suitable for cycling in most seasons.
Are electric bicycles permitted on the road cycling paths?
No, electric bicycles are not permitted within Horse Hill Open Space Preserve. A speed limit of 15 mph is enforced, and cyclists are advised to slow to 5 mph around others or blind turns for safety.
Are there connections to other notable areas or attractions from the preserve's cycling routes?
Yes, the road cycling routes often connect to other significant attractions. You can find routes leading towards the historic West Point Inn on Mount Tamalpais, which offers amenities and further views. The preserve also provides access to the Alto Bowl Preserve and routes extending towards Tennessee Beach and Paradise Beach County Park.
What are the typical distances for road cycling routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve?
Route distances vary significantly to accommodate all levels. You can find shorter, easy loops around 15-20 km, such as the Sausalito Path β Sausalito β Mill Valley Path loop from Alta. For longer rides, options like the Sir Francis Drake and Cross Marin Trail Loop extend up to 67 km, offering a full day's adventure.
Most popular routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve
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