01
Best overall pick
Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve
North Novato Foothills • Expansive Ridge And Meadow Hiking • Local Favorite For Big Views
A broad network of trails climbs through oak woodlands to wide-open meadows and panoramic summit views.
If you only have time for one Novato hike, make it Mount Burdell. The climbs are steady but not technical, and you are rewarded with sweeping views over Novato, San Pablo Bay, and on clear days all the way to Mount Tam. Spring brings wildflowers to the upper meadows, while fall afternoons can feel wonderfully quiet and remote.
02
Shadiest canyon escape
Indian Valley Open Space Preserve
Western Novato Near College Of Marin • Shaded Canyon And Creekside Trails • Best Summer Escape
A leafy network of routes follows a seasonal creek and climbs into cool, forested canyons.
Indian Valley is where locals go when the rest of town feels too hot or exposed. Trails begin gently along the creek and fan out into steeper routes that wind through bay, maple, and oak, with plenty of shade most of the way. It is a good pick for dog walkers, trail runners, and families who want options to keep the outing as short or long as they like.
03
Best bayfront walk
Rush Creek Open Space Preserve
Northeast Novato Bayfront • Easy Bayside Levee And Marsh Paths • Best Easy Stroll With Birdlife
A mostly flat loop skirts tidal marshes and ponds, with big sky and constant bird activity.
Rush Creek is ideal when you want a relaxing walk more than a workout. The wide paths and gentle grades make it accessible for most walkers, and the open views over the marsh change subtly with the tides and light. Bring binoculars if you enjoy spotting herons, egrets, and shorebirds cruising the wetlands.
04
Quick local loop
Deer Island Open Space Preserve
East Novato Wetlands • Short Hill Loop With Marsh Views • Best Quick Leg-Stretcher
A modest loop trail circles a low hill rising out of surrounding wetlands, with views back toward Novato and the bay.
Deer Island feels surprisingly wild for being so close to neighborhoods and Highway 101. The loop is short but has enough rise to get your heart rate up, and you are quickly rewarded with open vistas over marshes and rooftops to distant hills. It is a great choice for a before-work walk or to stretch your legs on a busy day.
05
Scenic coastal option
China Camp State Park
Shoreline East Of San Rafael • Coastal Oak Forest And Shoreline Trails • Best Full-Day Outing
A web of rolling singletrack and fire roads traces the shore and hills above San Pablo Bay with constant water views.
Just a short drive south of Novato, China Camp feels like a bigger adventure without much extra effort. Trails weave through coastal oaks, dip in and out of small ravines, and often open to sweeping views over the bay and nearby marshes. Plan a half or full day here to link together a satisfying loop, then relax at one of the bayside picnic spots before heading home.