Spring is one of the best times to explore Marin’s protected trails and ecosystems. With warming temperatures, fewer crowds, and seasonal wildlife activity, it’s the perfect season for a quiet outdoor retreat. Whether you want to walk among redwoods, take in panoramic bay views, or spot migratory birds in the wetlands, Marin’s protected preserves and parks provide a peaceful escape into nature.

Here’s where to go this season and how to explore responsibly!

Exploring Marin’s Parks and Open Spaces

Marin County beckons outdoor enthusiasts with an incredible array of options. Explore 39 parks and 34 open-space preserves, encompassing 17,500 acres of natural beauty. Whether you crave the challenge of hiking rolling hills, the thrill of biking scenic trails, the tranquility of paddling calm waters, or simply a breath of fresh air, Marin has something for everyone, all year round.

Beyond recreation, Marin County is dedicated to protecting these landscapes and keeping them accessible to visitors of all ages. The county also promotes responsible outdoor practices through initiatives like Leave No Trace, which we’ll cover later in this blog!

Protected Preserves, County and State Parks in Marin
Marin County is home to some of California's many scenic and well-preserved landscapes. From towering redwoods to coastal trails and rolling grasslands, these protected areas offer a glimpse into the region’s diverse ecosystems.

Let’s take a look at the four must-visit locations that showcase the county’s natural beauty!

Roy’s Redwood Preserve

Nestled in the San Geronimo Valley, Roy’s Redwoods Preserve spans 293 acres of towering redwoods, winding trails, and diverse wildlife. A recent restoration project has transformed the preserve, creating a more immersive and accessible experience while protecting its delicate ecosystem.

New Trails for a Better Experience
The recently completed Loop Trail and Boardwalk Trail now guide visitors through the old-growth forest without disturbing the landscape. These protected pathways reduce erosion, protect native plants, and provide a smoother, more accessible journey for visitors of all abilities. For those seeking panoramic views, the Dickson Ridge Fire Road offers breathtaking sights from Mount Tamalpais to Mount Wittenberg.

A Haven for Wildlife
Roy’s Redwoods is home to various wildlife, from pileated woodpeckers and great-horned owls to kingsnakes and every species of lizard in Marin County. Wildflowers like Pacific hound’s tongue and milkmaids add color to the landscape in the spring.

Activities and Access
Visitors can hike and bike along these protected trails. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed on trails. Thanks to the restoration in partnership with One Tam, the preserve now offers a more sustainable way to experience its beauty while allowing the redwoods and their ecosystem to thrive.

Ring Mountain Preserve

Ring Mountain Preserve is a 385-acre natural gem known for its rare geology, vibrant wildflowers, and sweeping Bay Area views. With its serpentine soil ecosystem, this preserve protects a remarkable diversity of rare and endemic plant species, some of which are found only in this area.

Hike the Phyllis Ellman Trail
The Phyllis Ellman Trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including oak woodlands, seasonal creeks, and wildflower-covered grasslands, over a 1.76-mile loop. While the trail is moderate, expect some steep sections and rocky footing.

A Rare Botanical Treasure
Ring Mountain is home to the Tiburon mariposa lily, a rare flower that blooms only in late May and early June. This delicate, yellow-green flower with purple markings is exclusive to the preserve’s serpentine outcroppings, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts. In spring, the landscape is also dotted with buttercups, shooting stars, sky lupine, and other vibrant wildflowers.

Discover Turtle Rock and Hidden History
A major highlight of the hike is Turtle Rock, a massive boulder near the mountain’s crest that serves as a perfect resting spot with panoramic views. For history buffs, remnants of a Cold War military installation can be found at the end of Taylor Fire Road.

Tomales Bay State Park

Tomales Bay State Park preserves diverse ecosystems, from Bishop pine forests to tidal marshes, protecting sensitive shoreline habitats and marine life. A must-visit for hikers, bird-watchers, and beachgoers, the park offers serene bay views, seasonal wildflowers, and rich wildlife.

Explore the Jepson Trail and Three Stunning Beaches
The Jepson Trail winds through forested paths and leads to three beautiful beaches along the bay:

Shell Beach: A long, sandy shoreline ideal for picnicking and sunbathing.
Heart’s Desire Beach: A calm and scenic spot, great for relaxing by the water.
Pebble Beach: A more secluded cove featuring rocky outcroppings and crystal-clear water.

Plan Your Visit
Open 8 a.m. to sunset.
Wildflowers peak in March, making spring a great time to visit.
The park is a haven for migratory birds, wildlife, and seasonal blooms.
Visit here for more information on park rules and facilities.

Rush Creek Preserve

Rush Creek Preserve is a vital habitat for migratory birds and diverse wildlife, making it an important area for biodiversity conservation. Spanning 552 acres in Novato, it features tidal marshes, grasslands, and oak woodlands that support endangered species like the Ridgway’s rail and salt marsh harvest mouse.

This scenic preserve is a favorite among hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and birdwatchers. Its wide, mostly flat trails make it accessible for all skill levels, from leisurely walkers to adventurous cyclists. With over 190 bird species recorded, including red-winged blackbirds and sandpipers, it’s one of the best birdwatching locations in Marin County.

What to Expect on the Trails
Visitors can access the preserve from multiple trailheads, including the main entrance off Highway 101 and others in the Bahia neighborhood. The trails wind through rolling hills, oak forests, and wetland edges, offering glimpses of deer, foxes, jackrabbits, and even the occasional bobcat.

Seasonal bird migrations bring an impressive variety of shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors throughout the year.

Rush Creek Preserve is open year-round, but the trails can be hot in summer, so bring water and wear sun protection!

How to Enjoy Marin While Protecting It

Marin County is home to stunning landscapes, and it’s up to all of us to keep them that way. That’s why the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau partners with Leave No Trace and the Cleaner California Coast initiative to promote responsible outdoor practices.

The 7 Leave No Trace Principles

By following these key principles, visitors can help protect trails, wildlife, and ecosystems while enjoying all that Marin has to offer.

• Plan Ahead & Prepare: Research the area before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to designated trails to prevent erosion and protect fragile plant life.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and biodegradable items.
• Leave What You Find: Preserve the natural and cultural heritage by not removing rocks, plants, or artifacts.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camp stove instead of a fire whenever possible.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them.
• Be Considerate of Others: Keep noise levels down, respect fellow visitors, and follow posted guidelines.

Before heading out, check local regulations, bring necessary supplies, and avoid crowded areas. After your visit, leave the area as you found it—clean and undisturbed. Practicing Leave No Trace ensures Marin’s scenic landscapes remain neat and pleasant for all to enjoy!

Ready to escape to the great outdoors? Whether you're exploring hidden trails or stunning shorelines, enjoy it responsibly so future generations can too! For the best places to stay in Marin, visit the Marin CVB at visitmarin.org/hotels.