Tucked away in Novato, Loma Verde Preserve sprawls across 320 acres of natural beauty in Marin County. The hiking and biking trails here are no joke—expect some steep climbs, but those views at the top? Totally worth the effort. Sure, getting up there takes work, but the solitude, scenery, and peaceful vibes make it all pay off.
Step into Loma Verde and you’re suddenly surrounded by a protected slice of Northern California’s best landscapes. The preserve links up with Pacheco Valle and Lucas Valley Open Space, so if you’re up for exploring, there’s a web of trails to wander. Locals often call this place a hidden gem, and honestly, it doesn’t draw the same crowds as some of Marin’s more famous spots.
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Expect a challenge, but also that satisfying “I did it!” feeling when you reach the higher points. The trails give you a real break from the daily grind, and those sweeping views across Marin are the kind you remember. If you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll get moments that really stick with you—kind of the whole point of exploring Marin’s wild places.
Overview of Loma Verde Preserve
Loma Verde Preserve covers 320 acres on the northeast slope of Big Rock Ridge, offering a quiet getaway with forested hills and a network of hiking trails.
Location and Accessibility
You’ll find Loma Verde Preserve in Novato, about 20 miles north of San Rafael. Multiple entry points make it pretty accessible, but the trailhead at the end of Pebble Beach Drive seems to be the go-to for a lot of folks.
Since the preserve connects to Pacheco Valle and Lucas Valley Open Space, you’ve got plenty of options for how to explore. If you’re coming from downtown Novato, you’ll be there in about 10 minutes.
Parking? It’s limited. Street spots fill up fast on weekends, so if you’re not an early bird, you might be circling for a while. The preserve opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, and there’s no entrance fee.
History and Conservation
Loma Verde came about thanks to Marin County’s push to protect open spaces. “Loma Verde” translates to “green hill” in Spanish, which fits—the hills stay green most of the year.
Locals and the Marin County Open Space District teamed up, buying and donating land to make the preserve possible. Their efforts keep Big Rock Ridge’s wild character safe for the future.
Conservation here focuses on:
- Keeping native plant communities healthy
- Protecting wildlife corridors
- Battling invasive species
- Reducing fire risks
Preserve Features
Across its 320 acres, Loma Verde delivers a mix of foggy, wooded hills and open grasslands. Fire roads and single-track trails crisscross the land, so hikers of different skill levels can find something that works.
Popular routes:
- Chicken Shack Fire Road (AllTrails gives it 4.5 stars)
- Pebble Beach Fire Road (killer views)
Oak woodlands dominate, attracting deer, coyotes, and all kinds of birds. In spring, wildflowers blanket the hillsides—bright, bold, and impossible to ignore. Winter rains make everything extra lush, while summer fog rolls in and gives morning hikes a kind of magic.
Getting to Loma Verde Preserve
There are a few ways into Loma Verde from Novato, and most trails will give your legs a workout. Plan your route based on where you’re coming from in Marin.
Directions and Parking
The main entrance is at the end of Pebble Beach Drive. From Highway 101, take the Ignacio Boulevard exit, go west, turn right on Fairway Drive, then left on Pebble Beach Drive. Drive to the end—street parking only, and not much of it.
If you’re coming from San Rafael, take Lucas Valley Road west, then turn north on Bridgegate Drive for the southern trails. From downtown Novato, you’ll make it in about 10 minutes.
No official parking lots, just neighborhood street spots. Weekends get busy, so weekdays are your best bet for easy parking.
Nearby Cities and Towns
Novato is your closest city—grab snacks, coffee, or a meal before or after your hike. Downtown’s just 3 miles away. San Rafael is about 8 miles south, and you’ll find more places to stay there if you’re making a weekend of it.
Point Reyes and the West Marin coast are roughly 25 miles west, so Loma Verde works as a pit stop if you’re bouncing between the coast and the 101. Sausalito, 20 miles south, is a fun detour if you’re coming up from San Francisco.
Lucas Valley and Pacheco Valle neighborhoods also have trail access, connecting you to the larger trail system that includes Loma Verde.
Hiking Trails and Routes
Loma Verde’s trails tend to be steep, but the views make up for it. The fire roads mostly stick to the ridgelines, so you’re treated to wide-open vistas as you climb.
Top Trails
Chicken Shack Fire Road is a crowd-pleaser—hikers give it high marks for its views and the solid workout it delivers.
Pebble Beach Fire Road starts at the end of Pebble Beach Drive and winds through a mix of terrain, with some truly spectacular lookout points. That “top-of-the-world” feeling? You’ll get it on this trail for sure.
Both trails let you soak up Loma Verde’s wild side. Bring a camera if you want to capture those panoramic Marin County scenes.
Trail Difficulty Levels
Every way into Loma Verde is pretty strenuous. There’s a lot of elevation gain, so these trails are best for folks who are ready to sweat a little (or a lot).
The fire roads linking up with Lucas Valley and Pacheco Valle require decent fitness. You’ll want:
- Grippy hiking boots
- Plenty of water (especially in the heat)
- Sunblock
- A trail map (Marin County Parks has them)
The tough climbs mean fewer people on the trails, so you get that peaceful, almost private feeling. The reward is a real sense of accomplishment and some of the best views around.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
Loma Verde Preserve’s 320 acres stretch along the northeast slope of Big Rock Ridge, packed with the kind of biodiversity Marin is known for.
Flora and Fauna
You’ll wander through oak woodlands and grasslands that change character with the seasons. Spring brings a riot of wildflowers. The oaks are home to all sorts of birds—woodpeckers, owls, and more.
You might spot black-tailed deer, coyotes, or even a gray fox if you’re lucky. Squirrels and rabbits dart along the trails, and you’ll probably see a western fence lizard or garter snake sunning on a rock.
Birders, bring your binoculars. Red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures often cruise overhead, and smaller birds flit through the brush. Early morning or late afternoon is prime wildlife-spotting time.
Fishing and Aquatic Life
Loma Verde itself doesn’t have much water, but it’s connected to the bigger Marin ecosystem. Nearby Pacheco Valle Preserve has a creek with seasonal waterfalls, supporting aquatic life.
You can’t fish at Loma Verde, but Marin County has other spots for anglers. Watersheds in the area eventually feed into San Pablo Bay, so you’ll see distant wetlands from the higher trails.
If fishing’s your thing, try Stafford Lake or head out to the coast. You’ll get the same wild scenery, plus better chances to actually catch something.
Recreation and Activities
Loma Verde Preserve gives you a mix of outdoor adventures in a setting that feels far from city life. Whether you’re looking for a tough hike or just a quiet place to unwind, it’s got you covered.
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Outdoor Activities
Hiking is the main draw. The trails are challenging, but the payoffs—views, solitude, that feeling of being somewhere special—make it all worthwhile.
Mountain bikers can use the fire roads, which link up with Pacheco Valle and Lucas Valley preserves for longer rides.
Horseback riders are welcome on certain trails, and the mix of woods and open spaces keeps things interesting.
Wildlife watching is a big plus. Bring binoculars if you want to spot some of the shyer residents.
Family-Friendly Options
Most trails are tough, but there are a few easier loops near the entrances that work for families with kids. Not all routes are stroller-friendly, so plan accordingly.
After rain, the creeks in Pacheco Valley are fun for kids to explore—look for mini waterfalls and flowing streams.
Picnic spots aren’t fancy, but you can always find a quiet overlook for lunch. A simple nature scavenger hunt (find a feather, a wildflower, a cool rock) keeps kids engaged.
Spring is the best time for family visits—wildflowers everywhere, and the hills are at their greenest.
Nearby Attractions and Destinations
If you’re making a day of it, Marin County’s full of places worth a side trip—coastline, redwoods, and some quirky little towns.
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore is about half an hour west of Loma Verde. This huge protected coastline covers 71,000 acres of beaches, headlands, and trails.
The Point Reyes Lighthouse is a must—on clear days, you might even spot migrating whales from the deck (January through April is best).
Drakes Beach is great for a picnic, with dramatic white cliffs and lots of space to relax. The visitor center there is surprisingly informative if you’re curious about the area’s wildlife or history.
Wildlife lovers should check out the Tule Elk Reserve at Tomales Point—a 9.7-mile trail leads you past herds of elk in their natural habitat.
Popular Point Reyes Activities:
- Hiking the Earthquake Trail (easy 0.6-mile loop)
- Bird watching at Abbotts Lagoon
- Visiting historic Pierce Point Ranch
- Kayaking Tomales Bay
Exploring Sausalito
Just 25 minutes south, Sausalito’s waterfront charm makes it a favorite day trip. This picturesque town serves up jaw-dropping San Francisco skyline views across the bay that honestly never get old.
Bridgeway Promenade is the heart of it all—perfect for wandering past art galleries, quirky boutiques, and seafood joints that always smell amazing. Don’t miss a quick stop at Yee Tock Chee Park for those classic city snapshots.
Down at Richardson Bay, Sausalito’s historic houseboats float along with a personality all their own. Some are humble, some are extravagant, but they all show off a kind of creative spirit you just don’t see everywhere.
Families with kids gravitate toward the Bay Area Discovery Museum. It’s hands-on, lively, and the Golden Gate Bridge looms in the background like something out of a movie.
History buffs can check out the Liberty Ship Memorial, a nod to Sausalito’s WWII shipbuilding days. The town managed to build 93 Liberty ships and tankers between 1942 and 1945—pretty wild when you think about it.
West Marin Discoveries
West Marin’s rural communities spill out a quieter, slower-paced side of the county, just a few minutes from Loma Verde Preserve.
Nicasio Reservoir is one of those peaceful, out-of-the-way spots for fishing or just soaking up the scenery. The hills and water make it a magnet for photographers—especially when the light’s just right.
Point Reyes Station has a small-town vibe and some seriously good food. If you’re into cheese, swing by Cowgirl Creamery for samples of their award-winning organic varieties. You’ll probably end up leaving with a wedge or two.
Tomales Bay is oyster country. At Hog Island Oyster Company, you can slurp down oysters right where they’re pulled from the water. It doesn’t get much fresher than that.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park is all about towering redwoods and Lagunitas Creek. In fall and winter, you might catch coho salmon and steelhead trout spawning—nature’s drama, right in front of you.
Where to Eat and Stay
If you’re heading to Loma Verde Preserve, you’ll find plenty of spots to eat and sleep in the surrounding Marin County area. Novato has the most options, with restaurants and hotels just a quick drive from the preserve.
Dining Options
Novato’s food scene covers just about every craving. Super Duper Burgers is a local go-to for grass-fed beef burgers and those addictive garlic fries—perfect after a day on the trails.
Craving Mexican? Mamita Cocina Mexicana serves up authentic dishes with fresh ingredients in a laid-back space. You can sit inside or out, depending on the weather.
For Italian, Chianti Cucina dishes out pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy spot. Their wine list highlights bottles from Marin and Sonoma, which is a nice touch.
Toast in Novato is a breakfast and lunch favorite. The menu bounces between healthy picks like avocado toast and heartier options like breakfast burritos—something for everyone.
Need a coffee fix or a quick bite? Taste Kitchen & Table has pastries, sandwiches, and really good coffee to keep you fueled for more exploring.
Lodging and Accommodations
Novato’s hotels are all about comfort and convenience. Inn Marin and Suites has modern rooms, a pool, and its own restaurant—plus, it’s just a short drive from the preserve.
Courtyard by Marriott Novato gives you business-friendly accommodations with clean rooms and solid service. The location makes it easy to get to the preserve.
If you’re watching your budget, Best Western Plus Novato Oaks Inn is a good value with free breakfast and WiFi, right off Highway 101.
Airbnb and VRBO rentals are sprinkled throughout Novato and nearby areas, offering more space and kitchen setups if you’re planning to stick around for a while.
Most places to stay are within 10-15 minutes of Loma Verde, so getting to the trails is a breeze.
Campgrounds Near Loma Verde Preserve
There aren’t any campgrounds inside Loma Verde Preserve, but you’ve got choices nearby. China Camp State Park is about 20 minutes away and has back-country sites with basic amenities in a lovely bayside setting.
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Samuel P. Taylor State Park lets you camp under redwoods, whether you’re in a tent or an RV. The sites come with fire rings, picnic tables, and restrooms with showers.
Olompali State Historic Park offers a handful of first-come, first-served spots for a rustic, history-rich experience.
RV travelers can park at Novato RV Park, which has full hookups, laundry, and a convenience store. It’s just off Highway 101, so you won’t have to hunt for it.
If you’re thinking about camping in summer or fall, book early—Marin’s campgrounds fill up fast.
Travel Tips for Visiting Loma Verde Preserve
A little planning goes a long way at Loma Verde Preserve. The terrain’s no joke, so bring the right gear and check the local conditions before heading out.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March–May) is just about perfect at Loma Verde. Wildflowers are everywhere, temps usually sit between 60–75°F, and the trails aren’t as dusty as they get in summer.
Fall (September–November) brings crisp air and crazy-good views from Big Rock Ridge. Morning fog usually burns off by 10am, and then you’re treated to sweeping vistas.
Summer afternoons? Honestly, they can be brutal. Temperatures sometimes hit 85°F or more on those exposed ridges, and there’s not much shade.
Winter (December–February) can surprise you with beautiful clear days between storms. Just know the fire roads turn muddy after rain, so things get slippery.
If you want the trails to yourself, go on a weekday morning. Weekends—especially afternoons—get busy, with Chicken Shack Fire Road drawing the biggest crowds.
What to Pack
Essentials:
- Sturdy hiking boots (ankle support helps)
- At least 2 liters of water per person (there’s no water out there)
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Layers—weather changes fast
- Trail map (download one from Marin County Parks before you go)
A lightweight backpack makes hauling your stuff easier on those steep climbs. Cell service is spotty, so don’t count on your phone for directions.
Binoculars are fun if you’re into birdwatching or just want to spot deer.
Trekking poles? Highly recommended. The elevation gain on Chicken Shack Fire Road and Pebble Beach Fire Road is real, and poles help you keep your footing on loose gravel.
Snacks with a punch of energy are a must. Most Loma Verde hikes take 2–4 hours if you want to do them right.
Health, Safety, and Amenities
Loma Verde Preserve keeps things pretty simple when it comes to facilities, so a little self-reliance is key. Stick to safety rules and you’ll have a great time out there.
Safety Guidelines
Pay attention to posted rules—they’re there to keep you and the environment safe. No smoking or fires, ever. Marin gets dry, and wildfire risk is no joke.
Weapons and hunting? Absolutely not allowed. Always stick to marked trails to protect habitats and avoid getting turned around.
Bring plenty of water, especially if it’s warm. There’s not much shade, and the sun can sneak up on you. Sunscreen and good shoes are a must—trails can be uneven.
If you’re hiking solo, let someone know your route and when you expect to be back. Cell coverage is iffy.
Facilities and Services
You’ll find parking lots at the main trailheads, but they fill up fast on weekends and holidays. Best bet: arrive early.
The preserve backs up to the Crooked Oak development, which has a few resident-only facilities—fitness center, pool, BBQ, spa—but don’t count on using those unless you live there.
Public restrooms are scarce. Plan ahead and bring your own water—there aren’t drinking fountains.
No stores inside the preserve, so grab snacks and supplies in Novato before you hit the trails.
The Baxter Trail: Hidden Gem of Loma Verde
Baxter Trail is one of those secret spots inside Loma Verde Preserve that most people just walk right past. It branches off from the main fire roads and gives you a more personal, quiet experience with the surrounding nature.
Look for the trailhead near the preserve’s north end. There’s a small marker, but it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.
The trail runs about 1.2 miles through mixed terrain and links up with Chicken Shack Fire Road. What’s cool about Baxter is how many different ecosystems you pass through in such a short distance.
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation gain: 450 feet
- Estimated time: 45–60 minutes one-way
- Surface: Mostly dirt single-track, a few rocky patches
Visit in spring and you’ll catch wildflowers—yellow lupines and orange poppies—lining the trail. It’s like walking through a pop-up garden.
There are a few viewpoints, but the third one is the showstopper. On a clear day, you get a panorama of San Pablo Bay that’ll stop you in your tracks.
Unlike the main fire roads, Baxter stays pretty quiet—even on weekends. Sometimes you’ll have it all to yourself.
Bring plenty of water. There aren’t any facilities, and poison oak pops up in some spots, so long pants are a smart call—even if it’s warm.
Other Scenic Preserves in Marin County
Marin County’s packed with stunning preserves beyond Loma Verde. Each one has a different vibe, so you can mix things up all year long.
Pacheco Valle Preserve sprawls across 519 acres of oak woodlands, grasslands, and a creek with seasonal waterfalls. It connects right to Loma Verde, so you can hike for miles without retracing your steps.
Ignacio Valley and Indian Valley are part of the same stretch of open space as Loma Verde. You can wander for hours through changing scenery and not see the same thing twice.
Bolinas Lagoon Preserve feels completely different. It’s a shallow, tidal lagoon that draws birds and marine mammals. If you catch it on a foggy morning, the atmosphere is just unreal.
Marin boasts 34 open space preserves and 39 parks, covering over 18,500 acres—plenty of room to roam.
For jaw-dropping coastal views, head to Point Reyes National Seashore just north of the preserves. Dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and that iconic lighthouse make it one of California’s best spots for scenery.
Many preserves have trails with sweeping views of:
- San Francisco Bay
- Mount Tamalpais
- The Pacific coastline
- Rolling hills and valleys
Each spot has its own quirks and highlights, making Marin County a kind of paradise for hikers, wildlife lovers, and anyone with a camera.
Day Trips From Loma Verde Preserve
Loma Verde Preserve is a solid home base for poking around Marin County and the surrounding area. If you’re looking to stretch your legs or just see something new, here are a few day trips you might actually enjoy.
Armstrong Woods—it’s a bit of a drive north, but totally worth it. Wandering among those ancient redwoods, some over 1,500 years old and shooting up 300 feet, feels almost surreal. There’s a hush under those trees that you just don’t get anywhere else.
Downtown Novato is basically around the corner. It’s got that small-town vibe with local restaurants, quirky boutiques, and a calendar full of community events. The Novato History Museum is a neat stop if you’re curious about how the area came to be. Here’s a link if you want to dig deeper.
Sausalito sits about half an hour south, hugging the waterfront. The views are striking, especially if you’re into sailboats or just people-watching by the bay. You’ll stumble across art galleries, seafood spots, and shops lining the main drag. Those houseboats along the shore? They’re a quirky touch that gives Sausalito its own flavor.
If you’re up for a bit more exploring, these spots are pretty close too:
| Location | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Point Reyes | 45 min | Lighthouse, wildlife, beaches |
| Muir Woods | 35 min | Old-growth redwoods, hiking |
| Sonoma | 50 min | Wineries, historic plaza |
Pacheco Valle Preserve connects right to Loma Verde, and if you time it after some rain, you might catch the creek running with seasonal waterfalls. There’s a good mix of oak woodlands and open grasslands—plenty of space to wander.
Chasing mountain views? Mount Tamalpais State Park has you covered. The hiking trails up there offer sweeping views of the Bay Area and the Pacific when the weather plays nice. Honestly, it’s hard not to feel a little awed up at the top.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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