Indian Tree Open Space is a 230-acre preserve in Novato that feels quieter and less crowded than many other Marin County parks, which can be nice if your dog does better without constant foot traffic. The trails wind through redwood groves and climb to ridgetop views of the surrounding countryside—the kind of vista that makes for decent photos if you’re into that sort of thing.

Dogs need to be on leash on the main trails, but there are designated fire protection roads where they can have off-leash time under voice control if you have solid recall. This matters because the preserve is also used by equestrians, and you’ll need to leash your dog and step aside when horses pass. There are no cyclists on the trails, so at least you won’t have to worry about sudden encounters with bikes coming around corners.

The shade from the redwoods keeps things cool even during summer, and there are occasional breezes at the higher elevations. That said, bring water for both you and your dog—there aren’t water stations anywhere on the property. Designated picnic areas exist if you want to eat something after the hike, and parking is ample with no entrance fees.

The trails vary in difficulty, so you can pick something that matches what your dog can handle. Summer is probably the best season to visit if you’re trying to avoid mud and have easier footing. Winter and spring get wetter, but the trails don’t typically become impassable. The lack of crowds here means you might see fewer dogs and people overall, which appeals to some owners more than the busier preserves closer to the highway. Just check for any current trail closures or updates before you head out, since conditions can change seasonally.