The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve

There are over 10 dog-friendly hiking trails in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The preserve features rolling ridgetops and expansive serpentine grasslands. Trails range from easy, like the Sausalito Yacht Harbor – Downtown Sausalito loop, to more challenging, with some paths being well-marked fire roads and others less official. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from lush grasslands to areas with unique serpentine soil.

While the preserve is dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect the local wildlife and unique plant species. Remember to bring your own water for your dog, as there is no running water available. Trash cans and doggy waste bags are provided at the Fishbits Trailhead.

From various points, especially higher elevations, you and your dog can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas. These include sweeping views of the Tiburon peninsula, the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and the Marin Headlands, as well as San Francisco Bay and Richardson Bay.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly options. For instance, the Hauke Park and Bayfront Park route offers a gentle walk. Another accessible option is the Sausalito — Mill Valley Path – Bothin Marsh Preserve loop, which is also considered easy.

You can explore the historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a charming Carpenter Gothic landmark built in 1888. Adjacent to it is the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve, which bursts with vibrant wildflowers in the spring. You might also spot the rare Tiburon jewelflower from mid-May to mid-June, and resilient plants like horsetail. A babbling creek flows through lush grasslands, adding to the scenic appeal.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve and hillsides are covered in wildflowers like California poppies and buttercups. The endangered Tiburon jewelflower can be seen from mid-May to mid-June. However, the preserve offers stunning views year-round, making it a great destination in any season, though summers can be warm.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. The Sausalito Yacht Harbor – Downtown Sausalito loop is a popular easy option, and the Sausalito — Mill Valley Path – Bothin Marsh Preserve loop also provides a pleasant circular walk.

It's essential to bring water for both yourself and your dog, as there are no public restrooms or running water facilities in the preserve. Sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, and doggy waste bags are also recommended. While some trails are well-marked, having a map or using a navigation app like komoot can be helpful for exploring.

Specific parking information for the preserve is not detailed, but many trailheads in open space preserves typically have designated parking areas. The Fishbits Trailhead is noted for having amenities like trash cans and doggy waste bags, suggesting it's a common access point.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging adventure, the Bay Trail: Paradise Drive to Bothin Marsh offers a difficult 20 km route with significant elevation changes. Another moderate option is the Sausalito Houseboats – Sausalito — Mill Valley Path loop.