The Bolinas Ridge Trail in Olema, Marin County, stretches 10.5 miles across ridgelines with views that sweep from Tomales Bay and Bolinas Lagoon out to the Pacific Ocean. You can access it from Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in the north or from Samuel P. Taylor State Park via the Jewell feeder trail, so there are a few different ways to approach it depending on where you want to start and how much elevation you’re up for.

The terrain changes as you go—you’ll move between shaded sections and open ridges with gentler slopes mixed in. It’s the kind of trail where you can adjust your pace depending on what your dog handles well. Some stretches are straightforward walking, while others get more challenging. The views are genuinely worth stopping for. On clear days you can see why people keep coming back to this part of Marin.

Dogs need to stay leashed the whole time, which makes sense given the wildlife and the other hikers you’ll encounter. You’ll definitely see other people out here with their dogs, so there’s a community feel to it. The trail attracts a steady stream of visitors, especially on weekends.

Bring more water than you think you’ll need—both for you and your dog. The ridgeline exposure means less shade in some sections, and there aren’t reliable water sources along the route. A collapsible bowl is useful if your dog needs a drink at one of the scenic overlooks. Pack some snacks too; the views give you plenty of reasons to take breaks and sit for a while.

Check ahead about any current trail conditions or temporary closures before you go. Weather can change quickly up on the ridge, so dress in layers even if it looks sunny when you start. The trail is popular enough that you won’t feel isolated, but it’s also not so crowded that you can’t enjoy the landscape.