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. The Pacheco Valle (519 acres), Ignacio Valley, Loma Verde, and Indian Valley preserves form a contiguous band of undisturbed open space encompassing virtually the entire northern slope of eastern Big Rock Ridge. The slopes are steep, the canyons deep, and first-time visitors never fail to marvel at the expanses of rugged chaparral and woodland found here. Most of the fire roads that run through these preserves follow ridgelines, and all of the access routes are strenuous, but the spectacular views and the sense of solitude make the climbing worthwhile. The relative inaccessibility of these canyons provides refuge for healthy populations of wildlife. Many of the slopes and ridges are composed of sandstone which favors the growth of madrone trees, thus there are many forests here featuring nearly pure stands of madrone. In winter when the madrone berries ripen, thousands of berry seeking birds such as cedar waxwings, band tailed pigeons, hermit thrushes, and American robins congregate here. The fire roads in the Pacheco Valle Preserve connect with roads and trails that lead through public lands managed by the Lucas Valley Homeowners Association and the Marinwood Community Services District (which borders our Lucas Valley preserve). Altogether, these unspoiled tracts of land allow for long day hikes (or rides) over the entire east end of Big Rock Ridge. If your dog has good stamina and voice control, the off-leash fire roads here offer miles of exploration without the crowds you’d find at more developed parks. The madrone forests create a unique landscape that shifts dramatically with the seasons—green and dense in spring, golden in late summer, and alive with migratory birds in winter. Directions: From Hwy 101 in Novato, take the Alameda Del Prado exit west towards the intersection of Clay Ct. The MCOSD gate is at the intersection of Alameda Del Prado and Clay Ct.
