The best traffic-free bike rides in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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Road cycling in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve and the surrounding Bay Area offers diverse no traffic road cycling routes. The region features a mix of coastal paths with panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge, alongside routes that ascend hills and traverse varied terrain. This area is characterized by rolling grasslands, unique geology, and a distinct ecosystem, providing a scenic backdrop for road cyclists.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary'S…
Last updated: May 30, 2026
5.0
(3)
28
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
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127
riders
31.0km
01:52
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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27
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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43.4km
02:33
1,000m
1,000m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
Ferry Point Loop Trailhead - Judge George D Carroll Park. Across the street from the Richmond Plunge public swimming pool
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There is a fire road that runs along the treeless top of the uplands, as well as a winding paved drive down by the coast. There are also some steep hiking trails. From the uplands you get great views of San Francisco Bay and especially Angel Island.
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Mount Tam East Peak offers some of the most majestic views north of the bay. From this vantage point, you can see all of Marin, along with Point Reyes to the north and Oakland and San Francisco to the south. The stunning panoramic vistas make the journey well worth the effort. There are restrooms and picnic tables, ideal for a snack or lunch while you capture some incredible photos.
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Often busy on weekends, this is a great spot to take moment before/after summiting Mt Tam. There are spigots to fill up water and bathrooms that are open during park hours. The parking lot is very close for those that drive up. There is access to MANY trails for those on foot/bike.
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The Pantoll Campground is a First-come/first-serve site in Mt. Tamalpais State Park. Each site has a barbeque grill, a fire ring, and a picnic table. You need to pay for the site at the Ranger Station as you enter the park.
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Now open for more than a hundred years, this inn welcomes visitors high on the flanks of Mount Tamalpais. The guestrooms mostly face east, but the grounds include great vantages to the west over the Bay. There's also a restaurant, and this has been voted one of the most romantic spots in the Bay Area several times over.
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Miller Knox Regional Shoreline Park has a secluded cove with a beach, a fishing pier, and panoramic views of the northern Bay Area. This park is 307 acres in size. It's open between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
There are 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic cycling routes?
While the guide focuses on road cycling, many of the 'no-traffic' routes within Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve, such as the Vistazo Fire Road and Heathcliff Fire Road, are unpaved fire roads. These wide dirt trails feature serpentine soil and rock, making them more suitable for gravel bikes, hybrid bikes, or mountain bikes rather than traditional road bikes with narrow tires. They offer excellent off-road cycling opportunities with stunning views.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 2 easy routes available. A great option for a shorter, less strenuous ride is the Fort Baker – Fort Baker Fishing Pier loop from Golden Gate, which is just under 9 km long.
What are the best routes for experienced road cyclists looking for a challenge?
For experienced cyclists seeking a more demanding ride, there are 2 difficult routes. Consider the Pantoll Road – Mount Tamalpais Summits loop from Mill Valley, which covers over 47 km and features significant elevation gain.
What landmarks or points of interest can I see along the cycling routes?
The preserve offers breathtaking panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and the Marin Headlands. You can also visit the historic Old St. Hilary's Church, a Carpenter Gothic-style building from 1888, and the adjacent John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve, especially beautiful in spring.
Is Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve suitable for family cycling?
Yes, the preserve can be family-friendly, especially on the easier, flatter sections of the fire roads. However, be mindful that many trails are unpaved and may require bikes more robust than typical road bikes. The scenic views and natural environment make it a pleasant outing for families prepared for the terrain.
What is the best time of year to cycle in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
Spring is particularly beautiful, especially for viewing the wildflowers in the John Thomas Howell Wildflower Preserve. The weather is generally mild year-round, but checking local conditions is always recommended. Summers can be warm, and winters might bring rain, affecting trail conditions on unpaved sections.
Are there any loop routes available for no-traffic road cycling?
Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. An example is the Fort Baker – Fort Baker Fishing Pier loop from Golden Gate, providing a circular ride without retracing your steps.
What do other cyclists say about the routes in Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve?
The komoot community highly rates the cycling experiences here, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 143 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views and the unique natural beauty of the preserve.
Where can I park when visiting Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve for cycling?
Parking information is typically available near the main access points to the preserve. It's advisable to check local signage or the preserve's official website for specific parking areas and any regulations before your visit.
Can I reach Old Saint Hilary's Open Space Preserve by public transport?
While specific public transport options directly to the preserve's trailheads may vary, Tiburon is served by local bus routes. Planning your journey in advance using public transport apps or websites is recommended to find the most convenient connections.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling?
The preserve is home to various bird species, including American kestrels, red-tailed hawks, and northern harriers, which can often be seen hunting over the hillsides. The unique ecosystem also supports specialized plant species.
Most popular routes in Old Saint Hilary'S Open Space Preserve
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