Article by Maryann Tobin

 

When it’s time to leave the stresses of the city life behind, there is no better place to explore the pristine beauty of the Bay Area than Marin County’s nature trails. Nestled between San Francisco and Sonoma wine country, Marin sits among the rolling green hills of one of Northern California’s best-kept secrets. For anyone looking for an outdoor adventure, or simply to connect with nature, this land is like a paradise.

 

Hiking on Marin’s nature trails is one of the best ways to transform walking into an extraordinary experience. Not only will hiking enable you to see, smell and touch the botanical beauty of Mother Nature, but it’s also an opportunity to take photographs you’ll cherish and want to share. 

 

In Angel Island State Park, there are more than a dozen miles of trails that offer stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area, including one of the best views of the city’s renowned skyline. China Camp State Park, Samuel P. Taylor State Park and Point Reyes Station also offer a variety of opportunities to make your outdoor adventures in Marin County special.

 

In addition to offering one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands brings hiking and history together as few other places can. The nature trails that meander through this national park can take you to Fort Barry and Fort Cronkhite. These beautifully preserved sites, on the National Register of Historic Places, are landmarks that were used to defend America’s shores dating back to the mid-1800s. Marin Headlands hiking trails can also take you through native lands of the Miwok Indians, and also lead you to the Point Bonita Lighthouse, which has been standing proud watch over San Francisco Bay for 150 years.

 

Point Reyes National Seashore is open year-round and offers more than 150 miles of hiking trails for visitors to explore. The paths here have intriguing names like Earthquake Trail, Chimney Rock and Woodpecker Trail, to name a few. Point Reyes Safari Tours offers an unforgettable experience of seeing and photographing the amazing wildlife and scenic lands of the park.  If you want to bring your dog along, the Kehoe Beach Trail is one of your best choices.

 

If you prefer having your Marin hiking experience more tailored, there are guided tours with Coastal Walkers available that can take you along the Golden Gate Coastline. Guided tours offer many advantages, including historic notes you might otherwise miss. They are also a great way for groups to share a customized hiking experience.

 

No matter how you choose to explore your more adventurous side, hiking through Marin County’s nature trails is an experience you won’t want to miss.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention & Visitor Bureau’s website or Facebook page.