Tips
February 23, 2022
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Fern Creek and spring
4.8
(8)
107
riders
24.0km
02:39
750m
750m
The Old Railroad Grade and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop offers a quintessential Mount Tamalpais mountain biking experience, blending historical charm with spectacular scenery. You'll traverse wide fire roads and more technical sections, passing through cool redwood canyons, sunny chaparral, and exposed ridges. The journey provides ever-changing vistas, from the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay, making the sustained climbing feel incredibly rewarding.
This moderate 14.9-mile (24.0 km) loop involves a significant 2457 feet (749 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete. The West Blithedale Avenue Trailhead is a convenient starting point. While the Old Railroad Grade offers a manageable gradient, the Hoo-Koo-E-Koo section includes steeper pitches and some rocky, rooted terrain, so come prepared for a solid workout.
Mount Tamalpais is widely recognized as the birthplace of mountain biking, making this loop a ride through history. The Old Railroad Grade follows the path of the historic "Crookedest Railroad in the World," and you can even stop at the West Point Inn, a historic establishment from 1904. The diverse terrain and consistent views solidify its status as a classic Marin County ride.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
13.0km
01:14
320m
320m
The Old Railroad Grade and Gravity Car Loop offers a unique mountain biking experience, tracing the path of the historic "Crookedest Railroad in the World" up Mount Tamalpais. You'll start amidst shaded redwood groves and fern-lined creeks, gradually climbing through oak woodlands to more exposed chaparral, all while enjoying increasingly expansive views of the Bay Area. The trail's consistent 6% grade on a wide fire road makes the 8.1-mile (13.0 km) ascent of 1059 feet (323 metres) aerobically challenging but not overly technical, leading to the stunning East Peak. Expect a moderate ride that takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes, perfect for those seeking a rewarding climb with incredible scenery.
To make the most of your visit, plan to start your ride from the East Peak Visitor Center, which offers facilities and serves as a natural hub for the area. While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable to secure a spot and enjoy the trail before it gets busy. This route is best enjoyed on clear days when the panoramic vistas from the summit are at their most spectacular, allowing you to see San Francisco and even the Sierra Nevada.
This loop is steeped in history, following the route of the Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railway that operated until 1930. You'll encounter engineering marvels like the Double Bowknot, where the old railway gained elevation, and the historic West Point Inn, a welcome stop with world-class views. At the East Peak Visitor Center, you can see a replica of a gravity car, which once whisked passengers down the mountain. This blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a good workout makes it one of the popular trails routes in the Marin County area.
4.8
(9)
110
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Elevation 430 m
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