Marin County Parks Open Space Leash Policy: Dogs on leash are welcome to enjoy trails. Dogs are allowed off-leash under strict voice control on fire protection roads. Please follow posted rules.
Camino Alto contains a variety of habitats within its 170 acres, including grasslands, bay/oak woodlands, and redwood/Douglas fir forests.
Camino Alto is part of the eastern end of the ridge that essentially runs from Mount Tamalpais toward the bay, often referred to as “Northridge.”
Camino Alto runs along a spur that branches off to the south toward Mill Valley. Because Camino Alto occupies a west facing slope, it is well forested and provides a shady access to the ridge.
The fire roads in this preserve are popular with hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians, offering several relatively level routes along a spectacular ridge with outstanding views of San Francisco and Mount Tamalpais.
The Middle Summit Fire Road rises steeply in the northern section of the preserve to connect with Blithedale Summit Preserve, and to points beyond.
Compared with most of the other trailheads that arise along the north edge of Mill Valley, the Overhill Road (also Escalon Drive) trailhead provides plenty of parking, thus it is an ideal place to start your exploration of the many trails that transect this gateway to Mount Tamalpais and virtually all of the undeveloped land of west Marin.
Directions:
Take Tiburon Blvd/East Blithedale Ave exit west on East Blithedale Ave, turn right at Camino Alto, turn left at Overhill Road, go to the top, and turn right at Escalon. The MCOSD gate is at the end.
• Parking: Park on the side of the road.
• Fee: None
• Water: Bring your own.
• Best time of year to hike: Can be very hot in the summer.
• Degree of difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 2.7 miles
• Hours of operation: Sunrise to sunset
