01
Best overall pick
King Mountain Loop Trail
Larkspur Hills Above Magnolia Avenue • Shady Redwood And Fir Loop • Local Favorite For A Classic Marin Hill Walk
A moderate loop that climbs quickly from neighborhood streets into quiet forest with peekaboo bay views.
This loop starts right above central Larkspur, so you can park on a residential street and be on dirt within minutes. The trail winds through second-growth redwoods and Douglas fir, with enough elevation gain to feel like a workout without being punishing. Go early or on weekdays for a more secluded feel, especially on the narrower singletrack sections.
02
Best redwood canyon escape
Baltimore Canyon via Dawn Falls Trail
Madrone Canyon Neighborhood • Lush Creekside Redwood Hike • Best For A Quick Immersion In Nature
A shady out-and-back or loop option that follows a lively creek to a seasonal waterfall deep in a canyon.
From the quiet streets of Madrone Canyon, the trail slips almost immediately into tall redwoods and ferny creek banks. In winter and spring, Dawn Falls is a satisfying payoff; in drier months, the cool canyon atmosphere is still worth the walk. Expect some roots and rocks underfoot, and be prepared for a few short, steeper pitches as you climb toward the falls.
03
Best bay-view ridge walk
Ring Mountain Preserve Loop
Hills Between Larkspur And Tiburon • Open Grassy Ridge With Boulders And Big Views • Best For Wide-Open Panoramas
A mostly exposed loop over a low ridge studded with boulders, offering sweeping views of the bay and city skyline.
Just a short drive from Larkspur across the flats, Ring Mountain feels surprisingly wild given how close it is to Highway 101. The trails roll over open slopes with scattered rocks and spring wildflowers, making it ideal on clear days when the views stretch from Mount Tamalpais to San Francisco. Go earlier or later in the day to avoid midday heat, and bring a layer—there’s little shade and the wind can pick up quickly.
04
Best half-day workout
Blithedale Ridge and Loop
Ridge Above Mill Valley And Corte Madera • Forest-And-Fire-Road Ridge Hike • Best For Strong Hikers And Trail Runners
A longer, rolling ridge route that strings together fire roads and singletrack with consistent climbs and views.
Accessed from trailheads a short drive from Larkspur, this route climbs steadily to a forested ridgeline that feels far removed from the towns below. Once on top, you can link fire roads and side trails into a custom loop, with glimpses of Mount Tam and the bay through the trees. It’s a great choice if you want a solid training hike without committing to a full day on the mountain.
05
Most iconic viewpoint
Mount Tamalpais East Peak via Verna Dunshee Trail
Mount Tamalpais East Peak Area • Short Summit Loop With Dramatic Vistas • Best For First-Time Visitors To Marin
A relatively easy loop circling Mount Tam’s East Peak, with near-continuous views over Marin, the bay, and on clear days the Farallon Islands.
From Larkspur, a winding drive up Mount Tam brings you to this high-elevation loop that delivers maximum scenery for minimal effort. The path is mostly smooth and gently graded, with railings in exposed spots and side spurs leading to rocky overlooks. Pair it with a stop at one of the lower trailheads if you want to turn a scenic stroll into a fuller hiking day on the mountain.