Goat Trail loop from Marinwood

If you're seeking a challenging mountain biking experience with rewarding views, the Goat Trail loop from Marinwood delivers. This moderate 7.4-mile (11.8 km) route packs in 1466 feet (447 metres) of climbing over roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it a solid choice for experienced riders looking for technical terrain and a good workout. It's a popular option for advanced mountain biking in the Marinwood area.

What to expect on Goat Trail loop from Marinwood

Expect a ride through diverse oak woodlands and expansive open meadows as you tackle the Marinwood area. The Goat Trail itself is a 1.0-mile singletrack known for its steep, fast downhill sections, roots, rocks, and hairpin turns. While officially rated "Black Diamond" for its technical challenges, some riders find it closer to an intermediate "Blue" difficulty, but either way, it's not for beginners. You'll be treated to engaging views of Mount Tamalpais, San Francisco Bay, and even the San Francisco skyline on a clear day. The route combines this technical singletrack with wider fire roads, offering a varied experience.

Planning your visit

The Marinwood area is considered the birthplace of mountain biking, making it a historically significant spot for your ride. The terrain can be extremely dry and loose, with large ruts, especially during drier seasons. This route is often incorporated into longer rides with other local trails like Ponti Ridge, which can serve as part of the ascent. Parking is generally available near the Marinwood access points, but it's always wise to arrive earlier on weekends.

Trail details

• Distance: 7.4 miles (11.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 1466 feet (447 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 25 minutes