4.8
(613)
11,045
hikers
90
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve traverse diverse landscapes characterized by rolling hills, open grasslands, and areas dotted with oak trees. The preserve offers panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, Richardson Bay, the Tiburon Peninsula, and Mount Tamalpais. Seasonal springs appear on the south slope during winter, and wildflowers bloom in spring, adding to the natural features. The terrain includes a mix of single-track paths and fire roads, connecting to the larger Alto Bowl Preserve.
โฆLast updated: July 7, 2026
11
hikers
3.93km
01:01
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
5.86km
01:37
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
6.32km
01:38
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
16.6km
04:13
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This tidal sanctuary runs along the Mill Valley-Sausalito Pathway and the Charles F. McGlashan Pathway. More than 400 species of migratory birds rest here after their long flights, and if you pass through in the early morning or late evening, the sunrises and sunsets reflect beautifully on the surface of this 106-acre marsh.
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Where Coyote Creek drains into Richardson Bay (an arm of San Francisco Bay) is also the intersection of the trail along the creek and the Mill Valley - Sausalito Path that runs along the bay.
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To circumvent the still closed Alto tunnel hikers and bikers can either climb up the steep connection here to Camino Alto grade, or turn east a few yards earlier at the school to make their way over to Horse Hill trail, along noisy 101 Highway
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South of the shopping center the trail crossed the highway and enters a pleasant network of trails through the Bayside parks and Marsh wetlands
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Offering commercial short distance seaplane taxi services and sightseeing tours
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Saltmarsh tidal wetland both sides of the trail, a former rail track
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There are over 80 hiking routes in Horse Hill Open Space Preserve that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels.
Hikers can enjoy expansive, 'top of the world' views of the San Francisco Skyline, Richardson Bay, the Tiburon Peninsula, and Mount Tamalpais on clear days. The trails also offer scenic open spaces and rolling hills.
Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Walking Path loop from Corte Madera. It's a relatively flat 3.9 km (2.4 miles) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll with children.
Yes, Horse Hill Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome on trails, with rules requiring them to be leashed on single-track paths and under voice command on fire roads.
You might encounter the preserve's resident herd of up to 14 horses grazing on the hill. During winter, seasonal springs emerge on the south slope, and in spring, the area bursts with wildflowers like lupine and Douglas iris. Keep an eye out for raptors like American kestrel overhead.
Spring is particularly beautiful with wildflowers in bloom. Clear days offer the best panoramic views. Be aware that trails can become muddy during the rainy season (winter), and it's advisable to check for ticks after an outing, especially in warmer months.
For a more extensive hike, the Sausalito Houseboats โ Sausalito โ Mill Valley Path loop from Alta is a moderate 14.2 km (8.8 miles) route that offers diverse terrain and rewarding views.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning panoramic views of the bay and city, and the unique experience of seeing the resident horses.
Visitors should note that there are no drinking fountains or restrooms directly on-site within Horse Hill Open Space Preserve. It's recommended to bring your own water and plan accordingly before starting your hike.
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Hiking loop from Mill Valley is an easy 5.9 km (3.7 miles) circular route that allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.
The preserve offers a diverse trail system, including both single-track paths and wider fire roads. You'll encounter rolling hills and open grasslands, with some sections meandering through mature oak trees providing shade.


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