Deer Island Open Space

For a peaceful walk on a gently sloping trail, check out the Deer Island Trail. This lane loops around the preserve. On the dirt pathway, you'll wander through a combination of grassland and woods. If you visit in spring, there will be some colorful wildflowers on your route. The area is open to hikers and horseback riders, so you might have company when you visit. There are no restrooms in the preserve.

Access the trail from Deer Island Lane on the north side of the property. There are parking spots along the road. Follow the marked route to the left as it heads through a grassy area before entering the trees. The narrow pathway parallels a storage park and junkyard at first then curves to the south. Make a gentle ascent as the route takes you through a stand of California bay trees. You'll wind through dense woods for a little bit then emerge into open grasslands. As you draw alongside the Novato Creek Marsh area, look for the small caves in the hill. You're also likely to see a variety of wildlife like hawks, woodpeckers, skunks, and squirrels while you hike here.

Your four-footed pal can walk out here with you if they're on a lead. Bring water with you since there aren't any facilities with running water. To help protect the preserve's ecosystem, carry bags to remove and pack out any waste. If you encounter a horseback rider, move to the right of the trail to let them pass. 

The Deer Island Trail offers a furrific area for you and your canine companion to get some exercise together any time of year. Hike through tall prairie grass and wooded areas and look for resident wildlife. If you come in spring, pause to view wildflowers like shooting stars and ground iris. In the fall, you might see the thistle seeds cover the path in white.