The best MTB trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve
4.5
(250)
2,298
riders
110
rides
Mountain biking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve offers routes through rolling hills and oak woodlands in Marin County, California. The preserve features varied terrain with significant elevation changes, providing a challenging environment for mountain bikers. Trails often traverse open grasslands and shaded forest sections, characteristic of the region's natural landscape. The area is defined by its diverse ecosystems and panoramic views from higher elevations.
Best mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve
- The most popular mountain bike…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.8
(5)
40
riders
15.6km
01:35
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(28)
293
riders
17.8km
01:42
410m
410m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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4.0
(3)
42
riders
34.0km
03:33
950m
950m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
43
riders
19.2km
01:53
550m
550m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
5.0
(1)
41
riders
41.6km
04:05
1,070m
1,070m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
An absolute must-see for cycling enthusiasts! This museum in Fairfax tells the story of nearly 200 years of cycling history, from 19th-century velocipedes to modern racing bikes. It's also home to the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, featuring unique specimens and stories about the pioneers of mountain biking. The collection is impressive and authentic—no replicas, but real bicycles that showcase the evolution of technology and design. An inspiring place where you can truly feel the passion for cycling.
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Where Eclipse and Solstice Trails intersect.
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This town, nestled in the forested hills among unspoiled open space in Marin County, is a nice respite from the large nearby metropolis. It is a quirky, hip place with a small-town vibe filled with restaurants, music venues, and independent shops. Fairfax is home to many musicians who live here, and on any given night, you can find live music featuring local and national touring acts jamming in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. It has a very cycle-friendly culture, and be sure to take the time to visit the Museum of Bicycling while you are here!
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Non-profit exhibit of some cool historic bikes, including some of the mountain bikes invented here
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The Lagunitas Dam, completed 151 years ago, was built in less than four months and was 480 feet long with a crest of 20 feet. The purpose was to supply development in the San Rafael area. Its current capacity is 350 acre-feet or 114 million gallons. Lake Lagunitas is one of seven Marin Municipal County Reservoirs, and the combined rainfall collected from these reservoirs makes up around 75 % of the district's water supply.
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There is a great view of the northern point of Alpine lake where a small channel feeds over to Bon Tempe Lake. This is a great place to drop a line, or just enjoy the aquatic views.
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From easiest to hardest climbs out of phoenix lake from this junction: -Shaver Grade, easy grade, longer, shaded and pretty -Eldridge Grade, medium, good length and can connect you to mt tam east peak -Fish Grade fire road, very steep, we hiked the bikes
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I don’t think I’ve actually seen much water in this trough, if biking up from phoenix lake, this is a nice place to catch your breath on this climb before finishing it off and descending down to Lake Lagunitas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Bald Hill Open Space Preserve offers a range of mountain biking experiences. You'll find 10 easy routes, 59 moderate routes, and 34 difficult routes. The preserve is known for its varied terrain and significant elevation changes, providing a challenging environment for many riders.
What is the average length of mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
The mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve vary in length. For example, routes like the Fairfax Tamarancho Trails loop are around 11 miles (17.8 km), while longer options such as the Cascade Fire Road – Gestalt Haus loop from Fairfax extend to about 21 miles (34 km).
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Bald Hill Open Space Preserve has 10 easy mountain bike routes that are suitable for families or beginners looking for a less strenuous ride. These trails offer a good introduction to the preserve's natural beauty without overly challenging terrain.
What is the best season for mountain biking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
While mountain biking is possible year-round, the best seasons are typically spring and fall when temperatures are milder and the landscape is vibrant. Summers can be warm, and winters might bring rain, affecting trail conditions. Always check local weather and trail reports before heading out.
Are there any loop trails for mountain biking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve are designed as loops. Popular examples include the Camp Tamarancho Trailhead – Goldman Trail loop from Fairfax and the Fairfax – Camp Tamarancho Trailhead loop from Fairfax, which offer diverse scenery without retracing your steps.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the mix of open grasslands and shaded oak woodlands, and the panoramic views from higher elevations.
How many mountain bike trails are available in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
There are over 100 mountain bike trails available in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there any moderate mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Yes, the preserve features 59 moderate mountain bike trails. These routes provide a good balance of challenge and accessibility, often including climbs and descents that are manageable for intermediate riders. An example is the Lake Lagunitas Dam – Gestalt Haus loop from Fairfax.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
You can expect diverse terrain, including rolling hills, oak woodlands, and open grasslands. Trails often feature significant elevation changes, ranging from moderate climbs to difficult descents, and a mix of fire roads and singletrack sections.
Is winter mountain biking possible in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Winter mountain biking is possible, but conditions can vary. The region may experience rain, which can make trails muddy and potentially slippery. It's advisable to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before planning a winter ride to ensure safety and trail preservation.
Where can I find trailheads for mountain biking in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve?
Many popular mountain bike routes in Bald Hill Open Space Preserve start from or are easily accessible near Fairfax. Specific trailheads like the Camp Tamarancho Trailhead are common starting points for various loops within the preserve.
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