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.

This 214-acre preserve sits just west of Novato and offers a real mix of terrain that makes for varied hiking. The southern slope is mostly open oak-studded grassland, while the north side drops steeply with dense forest down toward Novato Boulevard. The Doe Hill Fire Road runs along the southern edge and serves as the main route through the preserve—it’s also part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, that ambitious project working to create a continuous trail all the way around the Bay Area. From Little Mountain, you can actually connect into the trail systems at Olompali State Park and Mount Burdell Preserve to the north, and Indian Tree Preserve to the south, which gives you options for longer loops if you want them.

The preserve itself is largely undisturbed habitat, so the trails stay pretty quiet. On the grassy sections, you get good visibility and can see what’s coming. The forested north side feels different—more sheltered and shadowy, especially on hot days. Since dogs can be off-leash on the fire roads with voice control, it’s a decent spot if your dog has reliable recall. Even if you prefer to keep your dog on leash, there’s enough room that you won’t feel crowded.

For access, the eastern trailhead is easier to find—head west on San Marin Drive from Highway 101, which becomes Sutro Avenue. Turn right onto Center Road, then right onto Trish Drive (which becomes Kathleen Drive), and you’ll find the Marin County Open Space gate at the end. There’s parking at the gate, and from there you’re right on the trails.