The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
4.7
(299)
7,446
hikers
125
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve, you know how quickly the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. It's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it β you want the highlights, not the guesswork.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed more than 125 routes here, so we've done the legwork to bringβ¦
Last updated: May 30, 2026
5.0
(8)
33
hikers
22.0km
06:21
540m
550m
Embark on the Angel Island Fire Roads for a truly immersive hiking experience, where dirt trails wind through varied landscapes of oak woodland, open shrub, and chaparral. This difficult 13.7-mileβ¦
1
hikers
20.9km
05:39
270m
270m
The Bay Trail: Paradise Drive to Bothin Marsh offers a long, engaging hike through a dynamic landscape, blending urban waterfronts with vital marshlands. You'll traverse wide, mostly flat paths, enjoyingβ¦
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4.8
(12)
136
hikers
8.29km
02:23
210m
210m
The North Ridge and Sunset Trail Loop on Angel Island offers a fantastic escape from city life, providing diverse terrain and incredible vistas. You'll wind through shaded eucalyptus groves andβ¦
5.0
(6)
105
hikers
7.95km
02:18
210m
210m
The Angel Island Perimeter Road offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth, circling the island with continuous, breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay. This moderate 4.9-mileβ¦
4.6
(8)
43
hikers
8.61km
02:32
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Well signposted and close by you can park next to the beautiful access road along the side (just opposite the university entrance).
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Tiburon Harbor is a picturesque waterfront location with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Angel Island. Once a bustling railroad and ferry hub, it's now a charming spot for visitors with its marina, restaurants, historic Main Street, and scenic walking paths. The harbor is a popular gateway to outdoor adventures, from sailing and kayaking to catching the ferry for a day of hiking on Angel Island.
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The abandoned army church at Fort McDowell provides a striking window into the regionβs history and its role in past military life.
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Here you have the opportunity to witness some absolutely wonderful views of the San Francisco Bay!
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You can get some incredible views while walking or biking the Perimeter Road on Angel Island. This is a sterling example, as you can see the entire span of the Golden Gate Bridge from here.
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While navigating the switchbacks here on Sunset Trail, enjoy rewarding views of Golden Gate, Richardson Bay, and Tiburon. The best views are on the corners of the switchbacks, and on some corners there are little wooden benches to sit on and take a break.
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The Angel Island Ferry Landing in Ayala Cove offers regular passenger ferry service to Tiburon and San Francisco. The Angel Island to Tiburon Ferry provides a 15-minute crossing of the Racoon Strait to the Tiburon Ferry Terminal. The island is car-free, providing safe trails to hikers and bikers. Unlike the Tiburon and Sausalito ferry piers, private boats can moor at Ayala Cove Pier under Angel Island State Park's rules. Late in the day, lines can grow long, and on busy dates, visitors may be left waiting at the pier when the ferry reaches capacity.
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This station functioned as both an immigration and deportation facility, detaining large numbers of Chinese and Japanese immigrants under oppressive conditions, generally from two weeks to six months, before being allowed to enter the United States.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of hiking options. For family-friendly adventures, you'll find nearly 140 routes, with 72 of them rated as easy and 54 as moderate, making it simple to choose a path suitable for all ages and skill levels.
What kind of views can we expect on a family hike in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is renowned for its breathtaking, expansive views. From many points along the trails, your family can enjoy panoramic vistas of the San Francisco skyline, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, the Marin Headlands, and the sparkling waters of San Pablo Bay, San Francisco Bay, and Richardson Bay.
Are there any historical or natural landmarks to see along the trails?
Yes, the preserve is home to the historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a beautiful Carpenter Gothic church built in 1888. It's surrounded by botanical gardens and wildflowers, offering a lovely cultural and historical point of interest. Additionally, the unique serpentine grasslands support over 200 species of native plants, including the endangered Tiburon jewelflower, especially vibrant in spring.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve. For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and wildlife, dogs must be leashed on trails. On fire roads, they can be off-leash but must remain under voice command.
What is the terrain like for family hikes in the preserve?
The terrain varies, offering a diverse hiking experience. You'll find rolling serpentine grasslands, which can be particularly beautiful with wildflowers in spring. Some trails, like Heathcliff Fire Road and Vistazo Fire Road, are wider fire roads, while others might involve gentle ascents. The unique geology, including freshwater springs and a babbling creek, adds to the natural charm.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The komoot community highly rates the preserve, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 300 ratings. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, the unique natural beauty of the serpentine grasslands, and the sense of peaceful escape so close to urban areas.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, there are several loop options that families can enjoy. For a moderate challenge with rewarding views, consider the North Ridge and Sunset Trail Loop, which offers a great way to experience the preserve's diverse landscapes.
What is a good moderate family hike that offers great scenery?
The Angel Island Perimeter Road is a fantastic moderate option. While technically on Angel Island, it's easily accessible and offers continuous scenic views of the bay and surrounding areas, making it a memorable outing for families.
When is the best time of year to visit Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve with family?
While beautiful year-round, spring is particularly magical. This is when the serpentine grasslands come alive with a vibrant display of wildflowers, including the rare Tiburon jewelflower. The weather is generally mild, making it ideal for family outings.
Are there any longer, more challenging routes for families with older children?
For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the Sunset Trail lookout β Sunset Viewpoint loop from Angel Island offers a moderate challenge with significant distance and elevation gain, culminating in spectacular views. Remember to check the difficulty and prepare accordingly.
Is there parking available for families visiting the preserve?
Yes, the preserve is accessible from different trailheads, and parking is generally available in the vicinity of Tiburon. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability, especially during peak times.
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