The best road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
4.7
(226)
9,546
riders
50
rides
Road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve traverse rolling grasslands and fire roads, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The preserve is characterized by ridgetop grasslands and unique serpentine soil, providing distinct ecosystems. Multi-use trails and fire roads, including Heathcliff Fire Road and Vistazo Fire Road, are suitable for cycling. These paths offer continuous views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands.
Best road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
- Theβ¦
Last updated: August 6, 2026
7
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
192
riders
26.3km
01:12
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5.0
(11)
307
riders
42.0km
01:52
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.9
(7)
164
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
176
riders
24.8km
01:24
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
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.
1
0
Arrival of the magnificent Golden Gate crossing
0
0
Good vantage point.
0
0
Part of the coastal defenses along Coastal Trail, latest remnants here date from the WW II and early cold war era.
0
0
Tiburon Harbor is a picturesque waterfront location with sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and Angel Island. Once a bustling railroad and ferry hub, it's now a charming spot for visitors with its marina, restaurants, historic Main Street, and scenic walking paths. The harbor is a popular gateway to outdoor adventures, from sailing and kayaking to catching the ferry for a day of hiking on Angel Island.
0
0
The Old Tiburon Rail Trail is a scenic 2.6-mile path along the San Francisco Bay, with breathtaking water views and Mt. Tamalpais. Starting at Blackie's Pasture, it winds past coastal mudflats full of wildlife before transitioning into an on-street bike lane leading to downtown Tiburon. It's a fantastic, smooth ride with historical markers, parks, and a ferry terminal at the trail's end, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature and local history for a day away from the big city.
0
1
A nice place, but the bike parking fee and the price of an ice cream are a complete rip off!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
There are over 50 road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from easy to difficult, with a good selection of moderate trails as well.
What kind of views can I expect while road cycling in the preserve?
Road cycling in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve offers spectacular panoramic views. You can expect to see the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and the Marin Headlands. Trails like Heathcliff Fire Road immediately greet riders with these expansive vistas.
Are there any easy or family-friendly road cycling routes in the preserve?
Yes, the preserve features over 25 easy road cycling routes, many of which are suitable for families. For a gentle ride, the Horse Hill Bike Path β Paradise Beach County Park loop from Tiburon is an excellent choice, known for its gentle gradients and scenic views.
What are the typical distances for road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The routes vary in length, catering to different preferences. For example, the Horse Hill Bike Path β Paradise Beach County Park loop from Tiburon is about 16.4 miles (26.3 km), while the San Francisco Bay Trail: Tiburon Loop extends to 26.1 miles (42.0 km).
Are there any loop routes for road cycling in the preserve?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the preserve are designed as loops, providing a continuous and varied experience. Popular loop options include the Horse Hill Bike Path β Paradise Beach County Park loop from Tiburon and the Tiburon Linear Park Bike Trail β Sausalito Path loop from Sausalito.
What unique natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Beyond the stunning Bay Area views, you can encounter ridgetop grasslands that burst with wildflowers from winter through early summer, including California poppies and lupines. The historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a Carpenter Gothic chapel from 1888, is also a notable landmark amidst botanical gardens.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring (winter through early summer) is particularly special when the ridgetop grasslands transform into an enclave for wildflowers. The weather in Marin County is generally mild, making it suitable for cycling for much of the year.
Are there specific fire roads suitable for road bikes?
Yes, the preserve features multi-use fire roads that are open to cyclists. Vistazo Fire Road is notably flat and well-suited for bikes, while Heathcliff Fire Road also offers accessible paths with continuous, breathtaking vistas.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the continuous panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the varied terrain offered by the fire roads, and the overall serene natural environment.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments near the preserve?
While the preserve itself is a natural open space, the nearby town of Tiburon offers various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options where you can stop for refreshments before or after your ride.
Can I expect to see any wildlife while cycling?
The open spaces provide opportunities to observe various bird species. Keep an eye out for American kestrels, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers as they hunt over the hillsides, adding to the natural experience of your ride.
Most popular routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
