Marin County

What a difference a bridge makes. Marin County, across the Golden Gate from San Francisco, is a little different and a little “out there” in many ways—but certainly not by accident. Residents have fought hard for many decades to create and preserve the vast tracts of open space that contribute so much to the views and the outdoor lifestyle cherished by most who live here.

And what dog wouldn’t give his spots to be a Marin resident? With twice as many dogs (an estimated 60,000) as school children, you might say that Rover rules the road—or at least the trails and open spaces that available for dog-friendly recreation. Tens of thousands of acres are, including 24 preserves within the Marin County Open Space District, 130 miles of trails managed by the Marin Municipal Water District in the Mount Tamalpais watershed, and various beaches, trails and tracts under jurisdiction of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

From redwood forests to ocean beaches and rugged, trail-laced headlands, this land is custom-made for visitors with four-legged friends.
 

A Good Sport

Found injured near a Novato gas station after being hit by a car, terrified little Sport was brought to the Marin Humane Society, where the veterinary staff treated him for multiple pelvic fractures and a fractured tooth. This plucky young Corgi mix quickly became a favorite of staff and volunteers.

Since nobody came to claim him, Sport was sent to foster care at San Quentin State Prison as part of our Pen Pals program, which pairs animals who need time to rehabilitate with specially selected low-security inmates.  more »

Marin County

If you’re a dog, you can thank your lucky stars for the opportunity to live in or visit Marin County, where dog-friendly open space abounds. In the beach department, leash-optional Muir Beach, Rodeo Beach, Bolinas Beach and Dillon Beach are tail-wagger faves.

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It's a Gusher

Despite its strenuous nature, the 2.5-mile round trip to Cataract Falls on the north slope of Mount Tamalpais is definitely not the road less traveled. It's very popular on weekends, when at times every other hiker seems to be accompanied by a canine companion. more »

Furrlough Fridays

Some Meetup groups don’t require a computer. The Marin County residents who helped establish Remington Dog Park in Sausalito, for example, developed such a strong sense of community that regulars started gathering on Friday evenings to nosh on wine and cheese while watching their dogs run and play. Newcomers are readily accepted into what has become the canine social hub of the community.

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Shades of Green

LEED certification isn’t the only indicator that a hotel is working hard to reduce its environmental impact. Other, less costly programs also underscore commitment to sustainability. Among the eco-standouts in our region is Inn Marin, first hotel in the state to be awarded certification at the Leadership level through the California Green Lodging Program. A pet fee of just $20 is good for stays of up to a week.

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