The best running trails around Marin City

Batterij Townsley is a place where nature and history meet. As you climb along the rugged cliffs of the Marin Headlands, the old coastal defense slowly emerges from the landscape. Once at the top, a panorama opens up that will leave you speechless: the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the endless horizon. The abandoned bunkers and tunnels give the place a mysterious atmosphere, as if time has stood still here. A perfect stop to enjoy, wander, and completely immerse yourself in the view.

the typical boat houses north of San Francisco

Beginning of the wide gravel fire road following along the crest of Coyote Ridge from Miwok Trail down towards the beach.

The eponymous name of this hill mostly refers to the climb to this point from the beach about 1300 feet (400 meters) up. Deer Park Fire Road is actually reasonably gradual, following the ridgeline. Still, it is a good place for a rest, take in the views to the Pacific, and refill the water bottles at the water fountain, and read info panels about the recent history.

Starkly blue lake at the end of the valley narrowing here before reaching the beach. Surrounded by lush green grasses, bushes, and almost no trees.

At the end of the gradual Tennessee Valley Road, the last mile or so unpaved but smooth gravel, awaits the natural sandy wide beach cove. The steep coastal trails climbing on either side are hiking only.

Part of the coastal defenses along Coastal Trail, latest remnants here date from the WW II and early cold war era.

Sausalito’s floating homes form a lively and unique community of over 400 houseboats anchored in Richardson Bay, just north of San Francisco. Originally emerging in the late 19th century as simple fishing huts and weekend getaways, these structures transformed over time into a refuge for artists, writers, and free spirits. After World War II, many abandoned materials from shipyards were repurposed to create imaginative residences, reflecting a deeply creative and unconventional way of life. Crafted from reclaimed wood, former ferries, and even repurposed streetcars, these homes became icons of counterculture living. During the 1970s, locals fiercely defended their alternative lifestyle in the "Houseboat Wars," a pivotal movement that safeguarded their place in Sausalito’s history. Today, these floating dwellings blend architectural eccentricity with bohemian charm, providing a relaxed, water-based way of life that thrives on creativity and strong community bonds.