The best walks and hikes around Novato

Yes, Novato is very dog-friendly. Most open space preserves, including Mount Burdell and Indian Valley, welcome dogs on their trails. For a particularly scenic walk with your dog, consider the trails at Buck Gulch Falls, which are especially beautiful after rainfall. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash where required and to clean up after them.

Novato has several seasonal waterfalls that are best visited in winter and spring after rain. The most well-known is Buck Gulch Falls, located within the Ignacio Valley Preserve, which is accessible via an easy, well-shaded trail. Another option is the waterfall in the Indian Valley Preserve, which you can see on various loop trails through the area.

For a gentle and flat walk suitable for all ages, the Deer Island Loop — Deer Island Open Space Preserve is an excellent choice. This short trail offers pleasant scenery without any significant climbs. The Bay Trail in the Hamilton Field area also provides a flat, paved path perfect for a family stroll along the bayfront.

Yes, for those seeking a strenuous workout with rewarding views, the Indian Tree Open Space Preserve offers some of the area's more demanding trails. The Bay Area Ridge & Big Trees Trails loop is a long and difficult route with significant elevation gain, taking you through groves of redwoods to a spectacular overlook.

The trails around Novato are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the region's diverse scenery, from the panoramic views atop Mount Burdell to the serene, shaded paths in preserves like Indian Valley. The well-maintained trail networks and variety of options for all fitness levels are also frequently mentioned.

The open space preserves around Novato are home to a variety of wildlife. It's common to see deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, especially in areas like Rush Creek Preserve and the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which are critical habitats for waterfowl and shorebirds. Keep an eye out for hawks soaring overhead and listen for woodpeckers in the oak woodlands.

For some of the best panoramic views in the area, head to Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve. As the highest peak nearby, the trails leading to its summit offer stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys and San Pablo Bay. The preserve is a local favorite for watching sunrises and sunsets.

There are over 25 designated hiking trails to explore around Novato on komoot. These routes range from easy, flat walks in the wetlands to moderate and difficult climbs in the surrounding hills, offering plenty of options for every type of hiker.

Novato is home to several highly-regarded hiking destinations. Some of the most popular spots among locals include:

• Mount Burdell Preserve: Known for its challenging climbs and incredible sunrise and sunset views.
• Ignacio Valley Preserve: A large, undeveloped open space with trails winding along a creek, perfect for a peaceful hike.
• Buck Gulch Falls: A hidden gem featuring a beautiful seasonal waterfall, accessible via an easy trail that's great for kids and dogs.

When hiking at Mount Burdell, be aware that much of the terrain is exposed with little shade, so it's important to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially on warm days. The trails can be steep and rocky in sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Also, be mindful of mountain bikers who share some of the trails and watch out for ticks and poison oak.

Yes, some trailheads in Novato are accessible via public transport. Marin Transit routes serve various parts of the city. For example, you can take a bus to a stop near the College of Marin's Indian Valley Campus to access the trails at Indian Valley Preserve. It's best to check the latest Marin Transit schedules to plan your trip.