4.8
(402)
6,942
hikers
295
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Ross feature diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, serene lakes, and open space preserves. The region's terrain offers a mix of lakeside paths and routes with gradual elevation changes. Hikers can explore areas characterized by forests, wetlands, and views of surrounding valleys and distant mountain ranges. The network of trails provides options for various ability levels, focusing on accessible routes.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
5.84km
01:43
180m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
5.54km
01:37
160m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3
hikers
6.35km
01:51
190m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.69km
00:53
170m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.65km
00:48
120m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This cabin dates back to the 1890s and was originally a caretaker's home located on what was known as part of the ranch for the nearby Porteous Mansion. The cabin's construction comes from redwood logs cut from the Deer Park section of the ranch and the trim around the windows and doors from a fallen tree on the southwest side of Shaver Grade. It is an interesting piece of local history and the only structure of its kind in Marin County.
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In 1967, the family of Natalie Coffin Greene donated 25 acres of Phoenix Lake land for a park in her memory. It is a very private, secluded and peaceful spot to set out on a day hike. The park also makes a great destination in and of itself. It has picnic tables, Ross Creek running through it, and restrooms. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash. The tiny parking lot is usually full on summer weekends, so arriving early in the day is best.
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With over 150 miles of trails, this junction leads to several choices, depending on how far you want to extend your hike. Shaver Grade Road is a gravel fire road that climbs gradually toward Bon Tempe Lake. Eldridge climbs steeply from here and swings south on a more gradual incline, which will take you to the top of Mount Tamalpais East Peak. Fish Grade will take you to Fish Gulch Trail, and Gertrude Ord Trail is a single track that runs along Phoenix Creek, around Phoenix Lake and connects to several other routes for miles of tremendous trails to explore.
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Phoenix Lake is open to the public for swimming and fishing. Dogs are allowed on the surrounding trails, but are not allowed to swim nor drink from the water.
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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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On Shaver Grade Road, you get to ride along the incredibly blue waters of Phoenix Lake.
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Strategic intersection of three trails/forest roads
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Ross offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 120 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, there are more than 320 hiking tours available in the area, catering to various skill levels.
The easy hiking trails in Ross are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.9 stars from over 430 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene lake views, well-maintained paths, and the diverse landscapes that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Yes, Ross features several easy circular walks. A popular option is the Deer Park Loop, which is 3.6 miles long and offers gentle ascents through varied parkland. Another favorite is the Phoenix Lake and Yolanda Trail Loop, an easy 3.4-mile path with scenic views of Phoenix Lake and wooded areas.
Easy hikes around Ross, particularly in Marin County, California, showcase diverse landscapes. You'll find rolling hills, serene lakes like Phoenix Lake, and accessible open space preserves within the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed. Trails range from flat lakeside paths to routes with gradual elevation changes, often passing through forests and offering views of surrounding valleys.
While the immediate easy trails might not feature prominent waterfalls directly on the path, the region around Ross is known for its waterfalls. You can explore areas like Cataract Trail, which is home to several cascades, or visit Laurel Dell Falls and Fairfax Falls, which are accessible via various trails in the broader area.
Many easy hiking trails in Ross are ideal for families. The gentle terrain, often around lakes or through open parklands, makes them suitable for children. Routes like the Deer Park Loop are popular choices for family outings due to their manageable distances and pleasant scenery.
Many trails in the Ross area, particularly within the open space preserves of Marin County, are dog-friendly, though leash regulations often apply. It's always best to check specific trail rules before heading out, but generally, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy with your canine companion.
Yes, some easy trails in Ross offer rewarding viewpoints. While many paths wind through wooded areas or along lakeshores, routes with gradual ascents, such as those leading towards Bald Hill Preserve, provide wider views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed.
Near the easy hiking trails in Ross, you can find several points of interest. The Bon Tempe Dam is a notable man-made structure offering scenic views. For those interested in local history and culture, the Marin Museum of Bicycling is also nearby.
Parking is generally available near trailheads for easy hikes in Ross, especially around popular areas like Phoenix Lake and various open space preserves. Designated parking lots are common, but it's advisable to arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.
Ross offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. Summer can be warm but is still enjoyable, especially on shaded trails. Winter hiking is also possible, with cooler temperatures and potentially lush, green landscapes after rainfall.
The duration of easy hikes in Ross varies depending on the trail length. For example, the Deer Park Loop, at 3.6 miles, typically takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes. The Phoenix Lake via Shaver Grade and Fish Grade Fire Road, which is 3.9 miles, usually takes around 1 hour and 51 minutes to complete.


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