San Pedro Mountain Open Space – North Trailhead

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 connect to the adjacent Henry Barbier Park (owned by the city of San Rafael) and to China Camp State Park.

Directions:
From Hwy 101 in San Rafael, take the N. San Pedro Road exit east on N. San Pedro Road and turn right at Woodoaks Drive. Trailhead is at the end.