Roy’s Redwoods Open Space is a 293-acre preserve in San Geronimo where you’ll find some of the largest redwoods in Marin County, and the trails really do feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout most of the park, which keeps things manageable for everyone sharing the trails. If your dog has solid recall, there are designated fire protection roads where they can explore off-leash under voice control—honestly, watching them navigate the forest floor with that kind of freedom makes the drive out here worth it.

The trails vary enough that you can match them to your mood and your dog’s fitness level. The nature trail weaves through groves of fir, madrone, and oak in a way that feels protected and cool even when it’s hot elsewhere in Marin. If you’re up for something more ambitious, Dickson Ridge Fire Road climbs to views that stretch from Mount Tamalpais to Mount Wittenberg—the kind of vista that makes you stop and actually look around instead of just walking through.

There’s a great meadow near the entrance that works well for a picnic break, and historically the space has hosted everything from weddings to community gatherings. It’s the kind of place that feels lived-in and cared for, not just preserved behind a fence. Bring water for your dog, especially on warmer days—the shade helps but the hike can still be substantial depending on which route you take. The parking area is straightforward to find, and the paths are well-marked enough that you won’t spend half your time wondering if you’re going the right direction. Pack out whatever you bring in, and your dog will have room to actually move and explore rather than follow a crowded ribbon of trail.