Marin Headlands

Resting in the southern peninsula of Marin County, Marin Headlands attracts countless visitors every year. The sprawling national park spans over 2,000 acres and is managed by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.  Many people come to experience its scenic vistas and abundant wildlife, and it also has an expansive system of trails that both local residents and visitors love. The trail system contains over twenty miles of trails along coastal ridges and through the heart of the peninsula, and if you decide to pay Marin Headlands a visit, you can bring your dog along for the hike!

With so many trail choices, it can be hard to decide where to start. One option is to take the ten-mile loop through the southern part of the park -- to begin this hike, you can start at the parking lot along the Coastal Trail. This loop will take you from the coastal trail onto the Rodeo Valley Trail. You’ll also pass along the Old Springs, Marincello, and Bobcat Trails before circling back to where you started. You can also take the Coastal Trail from the Golden Gate Bridge in the south to the Dias Ridge Trail in the north, a hike running eight miles across the park. As you and your furry friend walk, keep an eye out for the different forms of wildlife that thrive at Marin Headlands; you may be able to spot deer, rabbits, bobcats, and a variety of wonderful bird species.

When you’re visiting Marin Headlands, note that the trail requires dogs to remain on-leash at all times. Remember to bring bags to clean up after your canine companions as well. The park has ample amenities, and you can find restrooms at Tennessee Valley Trailhead, Slacker Hill Trailhead, Fort Cronkhite Trailhead, Vista Point, and the visitors center.

Marin Headlands is one of Marin County’s finest trail systems, and you and your dog are sure to have a memorable time exploring all it has to offer!