The best city hikes and walks in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
4.7
(354)
9,243
hikers
31
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Urban hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve are situated on a ridgetop, offering expansive views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the surrounding Bay Area. The preserve features rolling grasslands and unique serpentine soil, supporting over 200 plant species, including the endangered Tiburon Jewelflower. Historical landmarks like Old St. Hilary's Church and the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve add to the area's character. The terrain includes varied paths, from accessible urban routes to those withโฆ
Last updated: October 13, 2026
6
hikers
7.06km
01:52
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
3.24km
00:50
20m
10m
The Old Rail Trail offers a wonderfully accessible and easy walk, perfect for a quick escape into nature. As a former railway line, you can expect a mostly flat andโฆ
17
hikers
5.11km
01:20
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
7.08km
01:48
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
the typical boat houses north of San Francisco
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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.
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Sausalitoโs 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 Sausalitoโs 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.
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Known for its charming waterfront, an old settlement of wooden houseboats, and the San Francisco Bay Model, a scale hydraulic model of the bay and local river deltas, Sausalito is a popular tourist destination and the gateway to the Marin Headlands, Muir Woods, and Marin County.
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The Sausalito houseboat community is full of architectural gems and repurposed old working boats, and each is wonderfully unique. Bikes are not allowed on the dock, so you must park your bike to get a closer look; however, remember to be respectful when visiting, as these are residential homes, and you are close to someone's living space.
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The Sausalito houseboat community is full of architectural gems and repurposed old working boats, and each is wonderfully unique. Bikes are not allowed on the dock, so you must park your bike to get a closer look; however, remember to be respectful when visiting, as these are residential homes, and you are close to someone's living space.
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Downtown Sausalito, known for its seaside charm, offers a small-town experience without traveling far from the San Francisco metropolis. It is an excellent place to grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafรฉs boasting views of the San Francisco skyline or enjoy riding along Bridgeway as you browse the numerous souvenir shops, boutiques, and art galleries.
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Following WWII, the houseboat community began to develop in the area. Each houseboat boasts its own uniqueness, being privately owned. Access to the area is allowed, but it is requested that visitors respect the houses and their privacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
There are over 25 urban hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these, about 20, are rated as easy, with a few moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge.
What kind of views can I expect on urban hikes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
Urban hikes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve are renowned for their spectacular panoramic views. You can expect to see San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, the Marin Headlands, San Pablo Bay, San Francisco Bay, and Richardson Bay. The preserve's ridgetop location provides some of the best vistas in the Bay Area.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, the preserve offers many easy urban hikes perfect for families and beginners. For instance, the Old Rail Trail is an easy option, just over 3 km long with minimal elevation gain. Many other routes are also rated easy, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Are dogs allowed on the urban hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
Yes, Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash. On fire roads, they can be under voice command. Dog waste bags are available at the Fishbits Trailhead.
What historical or natural landmarks can I see along the urban trails?
You can explore several notable landmarks. The historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a beautiful Carpenter Gothic church built in 1888, is a significant feature. Adjacent to it is the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve, famous for its spectacular display of wildflowers, especially in spring. You might also spot the endangered Tiburon Jewelflower, which blooms from mid-May to mid-June.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in the area?
Yes, there are several convenient loop trails. For example, the Sausalito Yacht Harbor โ Downtown Sausalito loop from Sausalito offers a pleasant 5.1 km urban walk. Another option is the Sausalito Houseboats โ Sausalito Houseboats loop from Sausalito, which is about 7.3 km long.
What is the best time of year to visit Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve for urban hiking?
The preserve is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly special due to the vibrant display of wildflowers in the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve. The bay breeze helps keep the area relatively cool even on hot days, making it pleasant for hiking during warmer months.
What are the parking options for accessing urban trails?
The preserve is generally accessible, and while specific parking details for all trailheads are not provided, many visitors access the trails from various points around Tiburon. The Fishbits Trailhead is a known access point.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area, the diverse wildflowers, and the overall accessibility and beauty of the trails.
Are there any urban hikes that offer a good mix of city sights and natural beauty?
Absolutely. Routes like the Downtown Sausalito โ Sausalito Waterfront loop from Sausalito combine urban exploration with scenic waterfront views. You can enjoy the charm of Sausalito while still experiencing the natural beauty of the bay.
What wildlife might I encounter on the urban trails?
While hiking, you might spot various bird species such as American kestrels, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers soaring over the hillsides. The preserve is also home to the federally threatened California red-legged frog, and a babbling creek runs through the lush grasslands, adding to the natural ambiance.
Most popular routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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