The best hikes from bus stations in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve
4.8
(549)
10,084
hikers
90
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve traverse a diverse landscape of redwood and Douglas-fir forests, open grasslands, and chaparral-covered hillsides. The preserve features shaded canyons, which can include seasonal mini-waterfalls like Dawn Falls during the rainy season. Terrain varies from gentle fire roads to single-track paths, offering a range of elevation gains. From higher points, hikers can access views of Marin County, the Marin Headlands, and the San Francisco Bay.
Best bus station hiking trails inโฆ
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(2)
37
hikers
9.05km
02:39
230m
230m
Step into a verdant, almost magical world on the Baltimore Canyon and Dawn Falls Loop, a moderate 5.6-mile (9.0 km) hike that feels like a deep dive into nature. You'llโฆ
4.7
(3)
38
hikers
10.3km
03:05
290m
290m
The Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop Trail offers a delightful mix of scenery, winding through peaceful second-growth redwood forests along Corte Madera Creek before climbing to open ridges. You'll experience varied terrain, fromโฆ
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32
hikers
11.2km
03:10
240m
240m
The King Mountain and Dawn Falls Loop offers a delightful blend of lush forest and expansive views, making it one of the most popular trails in Marin County. You'll wanderโฆ
26
hikers
22.8km
07:00
780m
780m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
45
hikers
7.07km
01:55
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
One of the best views in the entire Bay Area. No question.
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Mount Tam East Peak offers some of the most majestic views north of the bay. From this vantage point, you can see all of Marin, along with Point Reyes to the north and Oakland and San Francisco to the south. The stunning panoramic vistas make the journey well worth the effort. There are restrooms and picnic tables, ideal for a snack or lunch while you capture some incredible photos.
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Three different fire roads and a few different hiking trails converge near this point. Baltimore Canyon opens up before you to the northeast and you get sweeping views down the verdant mountainside.
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Great place to go for a relatively easy hike with the dog! Doesnโt hurt thereโs also a waterfall and beautiful redwoods everywhere.
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Great lookout with a usually closed summit hut at 2571 feet (784 m) elevation. Outstanding views of the Bay, Marin County, San Francisco, and the Pacific Ocean.
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This beautiful park is a local favorite, with trails ranging from easy to moderate that are also part of the larger Bay Area Ridge Trail. The routes offer fantastic views of the surrounding area, including San Pablo Bay and Mount Tamalpais. The park has picnic tables to enjoy lunch, public restrooms and several unique art installations throughout the grounds.
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The views from the trail are nice as you can see wildflowers and a few overlooks along the way. Most of the trail is shaded which makes the trail more accessible throughout the summer. This is a popular spot, so getting here early is in your best interest.
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Pleasant trails under tall Redwoods along Larkspur Creek. Public restrooms
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are there in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve?
Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve offers a wide selection of routes accessible by bus, with over 90 hiking trails available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve?
The preserve features diverse terrain, including serene redwood and Douglas-fir forests, expansive open grasslands, and dense chaparral. You'll find a mix of wide fire roads and single-track paths, with shaded canyons offering cool retreats and chaparral-covered hillsides providing unique ecological interest.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus?
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Piedmont Trail โ Dawn Falls Trail loop from Larkspur. This 5.7 km route is rated easy and offers a gentle experience through picturesque areas, making it suitable for beginners and families.
Can I find circular routes that start and end near a bus stop?
Absolutely. Many routes in the preserve are designed as loops. For a moderate circular hike, the Baltimore Canyon and Dawn Falls Loop is a great choice, covering about 9 km with varied scenery.
Are there any trails with waterfalls or significant natural features?
Yes, the preserve is known for its natural beauty. In the rainy season, numerous mini-waterfalls emerge, with Dawn Falls Trail being a notable seasonal attraction. You can experience this on routes like the King Mountain and Dawn Falls Loop, which takes you through shaded canyons and forests.
What are the best viewpoints or landmarks to look out for?
From higher elevations within the preserve, you can enjoy expansive panoramic views of Marin County, the Marin Headlands, and the San Francisco Bay. Key trails like Blithedale Ridge Fire Rd ๐ป๐ต and Middle Summit / Escalon Fire Road ๐ป๐ต offer excellent opportunities for these vistas.
What is the best time of year to hike in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is enjoyable year-round, but each season offers unique highlights. The rainy season brings out the waterfalls, while spring sees various lilies blooming in the cool canyons. The Huckleberry Trail is known for huckleberries in season. Shaded canyons provide a cool retreat during warmer months.
Are dogs allowed on the bus-accessible trails?
Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve generally welcomes dogs, but leash regulations and specific trail restrictions may apply. It's always best to check local signage or the Marin County Parks website for the most current rules regarding pets on trails.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from redwood groves to open grasslands, the extensive trail network, and the stunning panoramic views of Marin County and the San Francisco Bay.
Are there any longer or more challenging bus-accessible hikes?
For those seeking a more strenuous workout, the preserve offers several challenging routes. A difficult option is the Dawn Falls Trail โ Mount Tamalpais โ East Peak loop from Larkspur, which spans over 22 km and includes significant elevation gain, connecting you to the larger regional trail systems.
How does Blithedale Summit connect to other regional trail systems?
Blithedale Summit Open Space Preserve serves as a crucial link to larger regional trail systems. It connects directly to Mount Tamalpais State Park and forms part of the 550-mile Bay Area Ridge Trail, allowing for extended treks and exploration of adjacent open space preserves like Baltimore Canyon and King Mountain.
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