Trails from nearby parks lead to this ridge, which offers expansive views of forests & eagles.
When viewed from southbound Highway 101, the forested slopes of San Pedro Ridge form an impressive backdrop to the Marin County Civic Center. The north-facing slopes of this preserve (358 acres) are heavily forested with a mixture of oaks, bays, and madrones; there are even a few small pockets of redwoods in the upper canyons.
Near the top are open patches of grasslands that are dotted with wildflowers each spring.
To reach the top of this ridge requires steep uphill climbs no matter which route you choose, but the views are well worth the effort.
The trails and fire roads in this preserve include Marin County Open Space to the northwest, Henry Barbier Park (owned by the city of San Rafael) to the southwest and to China Camp State Park to the east, which unfortunately is not dog-friendly.
• Dogs are permitted on leash on trails; off leash under voice command on fire roads.
• Dog owners must have a leash for each dog.
Directions:
• Coming from north on Hwy. 101 take the Central San Rafael exit 1 block to Mission Street. Go left under the freeway 2 blocks to Grand Avenue. Turn left and go north on Grand to Locust Avenue. Turn right on Locust for .15 a mile where it junctions with Magnolia and turn left on Locust following it a half mile to roads end.
• Coming from south on Hwy 101 take the Central San Rafael exit and turn right on 2nd St. at the 1st light. Go 1 block (getting in the left lane) and turn left on Grand Ave.. Follow the rest of the directions above.
