Best mountain peaks around Ross are found in a region characterized by its coastal hills and diverse natural landscapes. This area, part of the Marin Hills, offers a variety of elevations from prominent summits to smaller knolls. It is known for its extensive protected public lands, including state parks and national monuments. The peaks provide opportunities for hiking and cycling, often with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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One of the best views in the entire Bay Area. No question.
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Mount Tam East Peak offers some of the most majestic views north of the bay. From this vantage point, you can see all of Marin, along with Point Reyes to the north and Oakland and San Francisco to the south. The stunning panoramic vistas make the journey well worth the effort. There are restrooms and picnic tables, ideal for a snack or lunch while you capture some incredible photos.
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Steep heading West can have traffic on SFD
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Great lookout with a usually closed summit hut at 2571 feet (784 m) elevation. Outstanding views of the Bay, Marin County, San Francisco, and the Pacific Ocean.
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Bare Knoll is a relatively small peak that allows you to see views stretching from Stinson Beach into the Gulf of the Farallones.
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There are, indeed, horses on this hill. Connector path between Mill Valley and Corte Madera, easier than Camino alto. The alto tunnel is still closed, learn more here: https://openaltotunnel.org/
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Highest peak in Marin County, north of the Golden Gate with fantastic panoramic views in all directions, from the Bay to the Pacific, to the skyline of San Francisco as well as the small towns, bays and coastline along the North Bay.
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The most popular mountain peak is Cardiac Hill (Dipsea Trail, Mount Tamalpais State Park), known for its wooden stairway and lush forest. Other highly regarded spots include Mount Tamalpais Summits, the highest peak in the Marin Hills, and Bare Knoll, which offers expansive views of the coast.
Yes, the Horse Hill Bike Path is categorized as family-friendly. This paved bike trail offers a gentler way to experience the area's elevations between Mill Valley and Corte Madera.
For expansive views, consider Mount Tamalpais Summits, which provides clear vistas of San Francisco and the East Bay. Bare Knoll also offers views stretching from Stinson Beach into the Gulf of the Farallones. Cardiac Hill and White Hill Summit are also noted for their viewpoints.
The peaks around Ross are characterized by diverse natural landscapes. You'll find lush forests, especially along trails like Cardiac Hill, and coastal hills with views of the Pacific Ocean. The area is part of extensive protected public lands, including state parks and national monuments, preserving its natural beauty.
Beyond hiking the peaks, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can explore various routes such as those found in Road Cycling Routes around Ross, Cycling around Ross, and MTB Trails around Ross.
Yes, Cardiac Hill (Dipsea Trail, Mount Tamalpais State Park) is rated as challenging. While the section winding around the hill is more gradual, the ascent to the hill itself can be steep and demanding.
The highest point in the Marin Hills is Mount Tamalpais Summits. Its West Peak, where a radar dome stands, reaches approximately 2,576 feet (785 m), making it clearly visible from San Francisco.
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of trails, from challenging ascents to more gradual paths, and the expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas. The presence of protected public lands also contributes to a rich outdoor experience.
Yes, the Horse Hill Bike Path is a dedicated cycle way. Additionally, White Hill Summit on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard is accessible by road and has a wide bike lane, though it can be busy.
Yes, both Mount Tamalpais Summits and Bare Knoll are designated as natural monuments, highlighting their ecological or geological significance.
Mount Tamalpais offers a variety of trails, including sections of the Dipsea Trail. For example, Cardiac Hill is part of the Dipsea Trail, featuring a wooden stairway and winding through a lush forest. The mountain is largely contained within Mount Tamalpais State Park and Muir Woods National Monument.
For mountain biking, you can explore the trails listed in the MTB Trails around Ross guide. These include routes like the Fairfax Tamarancho Trails loop and the Marin Three Lakes loop, offering various difficulty levels.


See even more amazing summits around Ross with these guides: