The best walks and hikes in Deer Island Open Space Preserve
4.7
(29)
448
hikers
50
hikes
Hikes in Deer Island Open Space Preserve explore a 135-acre area characterized by a central hill surrounded by seasonal wetlands and open grasslands. The terrain consists of mostly flat paths at the base of the hill, with some routes ascending through mixed oak woodlands to the summit. This landscape in Marin County provides views over Novato Creek and the adjacent marshes, making it a popular area for easy hikes.
Best hiking trails in Deer Island Open Space Preserve
- The most popular hiking route is Deer Island Loop — Deer Island Open Space Preserve, a 1.9 mile (3.1 km) trail that takes about 48 minutes to complete. This is a mostly flat path that circles the base of the preserve's main hill.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Deer Island Loop Trail loop from Old Town, an easy 2.0 mile (3.3 km) path. The route follows a similar circuit around the hill, offering views of the surrounding wetlands.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bahia Trail loop from Novato San Marin, a 5.9 mile (9.5 km) trail leading through the nearby wetlands, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking in Deer Island Open Space Preserve is defined by mixed oak woodlands, open grasslands, and seasonal wetlands. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, with most routes being flat and accessible.
- The routes in Deer Island Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Deer Island Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
7
hikers
3.06km
00:49
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
3.25km
00:54
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
17
hikers
9.59km
02:33
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.77km
00:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
hikers
12.8km
03:26
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The position of this vintage 1960s station wagon at the remote and roadless northern side of the Bahia is a fascinating mystery that can motivate creative story telling. The most plausible explanation might be that it was driven to the top of Bahia ridge when the preserve was still a mostly grass-covered ranchland, and somehow rolled down the hill and crashed. The trees that grew around it after grazing ended seem to be lifting the wreck up as they grow and grab the metal in various places with their bark.
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This trail runs along the edge of the Petaluma River wetlands and is a popular multi-use trail, so keep an eye out for others on the trail. The wetlands are an important area for wildlife, and are currently undergoing habitat restoration to improve conditions for native plants & animals.
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The position of this vintage 1960s station wagon at the remote and roadless northern side of the Bahia is a fascinating mystery that can motivate creative story telling. The most plausible explanation might be that it was driven to the top of Bahia ridge when the preserve was still a mostly grass-covered ranchland, and somehow rolled down the hill and crashed. The trees that grew around it after grazing ended seem to be lifting the wreck up as they grow and grab the metal in various places with their bark.
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East access into the Preserve. The trails are fine hard-packed gravel, smooth riding even with skinny tires. Or just take a look from here
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Paved trail entering the preserve parallel to Atherton Ave
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Scenic winding trail along the wetlands
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The position of this vintage 1960s station wagon at the remote and roadless northern side of the Bahia is a fascinating mystery that can motivate creative story telling. The most plausible explanation might be that it 3as driven to the top of Bahia ridge when the preserve was still a mostly grass-covered ranchland, and somehow rolled down the hill and crashed. The trees that grew around it after grazing ended seem to be lifting the wreck up as they grow and grab the metal in various places with their bark.
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Pinheiro Fire Road closes its loop here to return back to the highway. The two wooden bridges meet at the intersection where Rush Creek Fire Road originates to lead around the bottom of the northern Hill and turns into Bahia trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Deer Island Open Space Preserve?
Yes, dogs are welcome in the preserve. They must be on a leash on the main trails. The flat, wide paths make it a popular spot for dog walkers.
Are the trails suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The preserve is very family-friendly, especially the main loop trail which is mostly flat and easy to navigate. The open spaces and opportunities for wildlife spotting make it an engaging outing for kids.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find mostly flat, easy-walking dirt paths around the base of the hill, which are surrounded by seasonal wetlands. For a bit more of a challenge, steeper trails ascend the hill through oak woodlands, offering more rugged ground.
Are there any hikes with good views?
Yes, for the best views, take the De Borba Trail to the top of the hill. From the summit, you get expansive vistas over the surrounding wetlands, Novato Creek, and the wider Marin County landscape.
What kind of wildlife can I see at Deer Island?
The preserve is a fantastic spot for birdwatching. The wetlands attract waterfowl like northern shovelers and white pelicans, especially in winter. You can also spot raptors such as white-tailed kites and harriers hunting over the grasslands. Keep an eye out for coyotes as well.
Is Deer Island a good place for trail running?
Yes, it's a popular spot for local trail runners. The main loop offers a flat and fast circuit, while the trails leading up the hill provide an opportunity for hill training with rewarding views.
When is the best time to visit Deer Island?
You can enjoy Deer Island year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while the cooler winter months are ideal for birdwatching in the wetlands. The oak woodlands provide welcome shade on warmer summer and fall days. Be aware that the wetlands are seasonal and can be dry in late summer and fall.
What kind of trees and plants will I see?
The trails wind through beautiful mixed oak woodlands, where you'll see coast live oak, California bay, and buckeye trees. The grasslands come alive with wildflowers like Ithuriel's spear in the spring. Be mindful of poison oak, which is common and turns a distinct red in the fall.
Are there options for longer hikes in the area?
Yes. While the main preserve trails are relatively short, you can extend your hike into the surrounding area. The Bahia Trail loop from Novato San Marin is a moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route that explores the nearby wetlands, offering a longer adventure.
How many trails are there in the preserve?
There are over 30 different hiking routes to explore in and around Deer Island Open Space Preserve, ranging from easy, flat loops to more moderate climbs.
What do other hikers enjoy about Deer Island Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, and the mix of easy, flat trails with the option for a more strenuous climb to the viewpoint.
Is there a good circular walk in the preserve?
Yes, the most popular route is a circular walk. The Deer Island Loop — Deer Island Open Space Preserve is a mostly flat 1.9-mile (3.1 km) circuit around the base of the hill, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Most popular routes in Deer Island Open Space Preserve
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