The best walks and hikes in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve
4.6
(21)
331
hikers
43
hikes
Hikes in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve explore a 522-acre landscape of tidal wetlands, oak woodlands, and rolling hills in northern Novato. The preserve is characterized by its extensive marshlands along the Petaluma River delta, which provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Most routes follow wide, level fire roads and multi-use trails, making the area accessible for different fitness levels.
Best hiking trails in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve
- The most popular hiking route is Rush Creek Preserve loop β Novato, California, a 8.0 mile (12.8 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 25 minutes to complete. This moderate hike combines several of the preserve's main fire roads.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Bahia Trail loop from Novato San Marin, a moderate 5.9 mile (9.5 km) path. The route circles the edge of the wetlands, offering open views across the marsh.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Deer Island Loop β Deer Island Open Space Preserve, a 1.9 mile (3.1 km) trail leading through the adjacent open space, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Hiking in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve is defined by level trails through oak woodlands and paths along tidal marshlands. The network of fire roads offers routes suitable for various ability levels.
- The routes in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Rush Creek Open Space Preserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
1.77km
00:27
10m
10m
Hike the easy 101 Trail in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve, a 1.1-mile route with 29 feet of elevation gain, taking about 27 minutes.
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
12.8km
03:26
150m
150m
The Bahia and Rush Creek Loop in Marin County offers a delightful blend of marshland views and oak woodlands, making it a fantastic option for a varied outdoor experience. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from flat, open stretches where ducks and other birds are frequently spotted, to moderately steep sections with roots and ruts that provide a good workout. The trail is particularly renowned for its vibrant wildflowers that bloom in late winter and early spring, transforming the landscape with color, and you might even spot the unique Vintage Car Wreck on the Bahia Trail section.
Planning your visit to this popular multi-use trail is straightforward, though it's worth noting that trails can be muddy during the rainy season. The route is generally considered moderate, covering 8.0 miles (12.8 km) with 486 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 25 minutes. It's a great choice for a half-day hike, and dogs are welcome on leash, making it a family-friendly option. Consider visiting in late winter or early spring to catch the best of the wildflower displays.
This loop is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, boasting nearly 200 regularly occurring species. The area is an important wildlife habitat, featuring a rare blue oak woodland growing adjacent to a salt marsh, and is currently undergoing restoration efforts to improve conditions for native plants and animals. From the eastern end of the preserve, you'll be treated to unimpeded views across the Petaluma River delta, adding another layer of scenic beauty to this ecologically significant trail.
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4.0
(1)
16
hikers
9.59km
02:33
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
5.74km
01:29
30m
30m
The Pinheiro Fire Road Trailhead loop in Novato offers a delightful journey through the Rush Creek Preserve, showcasing a rich tapestry of natural features. You'll wander past expansive wetland areas, through rolling, oak-studded hills featuring Marin County's largest stand of blue oak trees, and alongside marshland and tidal flats. Spring is particularly vibrant with wildflowers and active anise swallowtail butterflies, making for a serene and scenic outing.
This easy 3.6-mile (5.7 km) hiking route, with a minimal 94 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in about 1 hour and 28 minutes. It's a multi-use trail, popular with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and equestrians, and is also dog-friendly. Remember to bring water and a hat during warmer months, and be aware that trails can be muddy after rain.
The Rush Creek Preserve, which this trail traverses, is a renowned spot for birdwatching in the North Bay, home to nearly 200 regularly occurring species. Beyond the birds, you might also spot jack rabbits, fox, coyotes, and deer. Its accessibility and diverse wildlife make it a standout choice for a family-friendly nature walk or a peaceful escape into the outdoors.
1.15km
00:18
10m
10m
The Old Town Novato and SMART Pathway Loop offers a delightful, easy stroll through a mix of urban charm and green pathway. You'll begin by exploring the historic streets of Old Town Novato, admiring buildings like the Novato City Hall, before transitioning to the smooth, paved SMART Pathway. This section is lined with pleasant trees and shrubs, and even passes by the open fields of Slade Park, providing a refreshing change of scenery on this accessible route.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike, which takes only about 17 minutes to complete with its minimal 21 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain. The trail is enjoyable year-round, with spring and fall being particularly comfortable. Public transit is a breeze, as you can take the SMART train directly to the Novato Downtown station, making it a convenient outing for anyone.
What makes this loop stand out is its seamless integration of local history and modern multi-use path functionality. It's part of the larger Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) Pathway system, offering a glimpse into Novato's past while providing a smooth, paved surface suitable for all users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. It's a perfect example of family-friendly hikes in the area, allowing you to experience the town's character without a strenuous effort.
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Tips from the Community
This museum is housed in the historic Novato's postmaster's house circa 1850. It contains rotating and permanent exhibitions that cover everything from 19th-century daily life to social history in Novato. It is open by appointment only; admission is free, and it is close to the Hamilton Field History Museum and the Marin Museum of the American Indian if you want to plan a mini-museum adventure!
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This trail runs along the edge of the Petaluma River wetlands and is a popular multi-use trail, so keep an eye out for others on the trail. The wetlands are an important area for wildlife, and are currently undergoing habitat restoration to improve conditions for native plants & animals.
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The position of this vintage 1960s station wagon at the remote and roadless northern side of the Bahia is a fascinating mystery that can motivate creative story telling. The most plausible explanation might be that it was driven to the top of Bahia ridge when the preserve was still a mostly grass-covered ranchland, and somehow rolled down the hill and crashed. The trees that grew around it after grazing ended seem to be lifting the wreck up as they grow and grab the metal in various places with their bark.
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My coffee stop on this ride is - Dr. Insomniac's Fine Coffee
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Great spots for a refueling break, lots of restaurants with outdoor seating, some historic buildings.
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East access into the Preserve. The trails are fine hard-packed gravel, smooth riding even with skinny tires. Or just take a look from here
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Paved trail entering the preserve parallel to Atherton Ave
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Scenic winding trail along the wetlands
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve?
Yes, dogs are welcome in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve but must be kept on a leash. The wide, level fire roads and multi-use trails are well-suited for walking with your canine companion.
Where can I park to access the trails?
There are several trailheads with parking options. Popular starting points include the Rush Creek Trailhead on Binford Road and another access point on Bugeia Lane. Parking is also available in the surrounding Bahia neighborhood for access to the Bahia Trail.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the preserve?
Absolutely. The preserve is known for its gentle terrain. Many of the 19 easy-rated trails are suitable for families. For a very short and flat walk, the Old Town Novato loop is just over a kilometer long. The trails skirting the wetlands are also predominantly flat and offer an engaging experience for all ages.
What is the best time of year to visit Rush Creek?
Each season offers a unique experience. Spring is fantastic for wildflowers like shooting star and snowberry. Fall and winter are prime birdwatching seasons, as thousands of ducks and other waterfowl migrate to the marshes. Summer can be warm, so it's best to hike in the morning or evening.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Rush Creek is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. It's considered a premier birding location where you can spot ducks, geese, sandpipers, and raptors like red-shouldered hawks. It's also common to see deer, and you might find coyote tracks near the water.
Which trail is best for birdwatching?
Any trail that runs alongside the Rush Creek Marsh and the Petaluma River delta offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Bahia Trail loop from Novato San Marin provides expansive, open views across the wetlands, making it a great choice for spotting water birds.
Are the trails suitable for a jogging stroller?
Yes, many of the main trails, such as the Pinheiro Fire Road and other multi-use paths, are wide, level, and well-maintained, making them suitable for a sturdy off-road jogging stroller. The terrain is generally gentle, especially on routes that follow the edge of the marsh.
How many hiking trails are in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve?
You can explore over 30 different hiking routes within the preserve. These range from short, easy walks to longer, more moderate loops, with the majority being classified as easy or moderate.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the preserve?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the preserve for its peaceful atmosphere, easy-to-follow flat trails, and excellent opportunities for wildlife and bird spotting.
Are there any circular walks available?
Yes, the preserve has several excellent loop hikes. A popular longer option is the Rush Creek Preserve loop, which combines several fire roads for a comprehensive tour of the area. Many shorter, unofficial loops are also possible by connecting different trails.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The hiking is characterized by predominantly flat, wide fire roads and multi-use trails. You'll walk through a mix of shady oak woodlands and open paths that run along the edge of the tidal marshlands, offering expansive views. The elevation gain on most routes is minimal.
Are there any shorter hikes in the area?
Yes, there are plenty of shorter options. For a nice walk in an adjacent area, the Deer Island Loop is a gentle 1.9-mile (3.1 km) trail that takes less than an hour to complete.
Most popular routes in Rush Creek Open Space Preserve
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