Camino Alto Open Space

The trail system in the Camino Alto Open Space offers pups and owners a place to escape the city's hustle and bustle. This natural area in Mill Valley gets a moderate amount of use by hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. The fire roads here take you through a variety of ecosystems. From this area, you'll also have scenic views of Mount Tamalpais and the San Francisco area. Some trails out here may have seasonal closures at night, so check the website and pay attention to trail signs when you visit. The wildflowers are stunning in spring, but this place is furrific to visit any time of year.

There's a trailhead for the Escalon Fire Road at the juncture of Escalon Drive and Overhill Road. The pathway here is broad and leads through a mixed forest that includes California bay, some redwoods, coyote brush, and coast live oak. You'll soon cross over the Camino Alto Fire Road. Continue your trek as the trail gently climbs to meet the Lower Summit Fire Road. If it's a clear day, you might catch sight of Mount Tamalpais up here. The route heads over the hill and feeds into Middle Summit Fire Road. From here, you'll have a steep descent to the Escalon Octopus Trail and back to your vehicle via Camino Alto Fire Road.

This pawtastic area is open to dogs. Keep them secure on a lead when you're hiking on trails. If they respond immediately to voice commands, you can take the leash off while traveling on the fire roads. Have waste disposal bags with you to remove any droppings that your furry pal leaves on the path.

You and your special pal will be able to enjoy hiking through grassland, Douglas fir forest, and mixed bay/oak woods when you visit the Camino Alto Open Space. With multiple fire roads on the property, you can take a relaxing stroll or challenge yourself with a rigorous climb here.