Old Town Novato & Rush Creek Preserve loop

The Old Town Novato & Rush Creek Preserve loop is approximately 25.7 km (16 miles) long and generally takes about 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete by touring bicycle, depending on your pace and stops.

The route offers a diverse cycling experience. You'll find mostly paved surfaces, especially in the urban sections. Within the Rush Creek Preserve, you'll ride on wide, multi-use fire roads and trails. While generally flat, there are some gentle rolling hills. Be aware that some unpaved segments might become muddy after rain.

Yes, this loop is considered a moderate ride, suitable for various skill levels with good fitness. The mostly flat terrain and wide fire roads in the preserve make it a popular choice for easy, leisurely rides and family-friendly outings. It's also a good place for beginners to practice off-road skills.

The Rush Creek Preserve section offers expansive views of tidal wetlands, marshlands, and the Petaluma River delta. You'll pass through diverse ecosystems, including oak woodlands. It's a notable spot for birdwatching, with nearly 200 species like red-winged blackbirds and sandpipers. During spring, you might also spot wildflowers and butterflies. The Old Town Novato portion provides a more urban or suburban setting.

Absolutely! The route takes you through Old Town Novato, where you can explore historical elements. You'll also pass by Miwok Park and Museum. Within the preserve, you'll encounter key trail junctions like Pinheiro & Rush Creek Fire Road Junction and the Crest Fire Road connector.

Spring is an excellent time to visit, as you can enjoy wildflowers and butterflies in the preserve. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but be mindful that unpaved sections can become muddy after heavy rains, especially in winter.

While specific parking details for the entire loop aren't provided, the route is accessible from Old Town Novato. For information on parking options in Novato, you might find resources on the visitnovato.com website.

The trail passes through Rush Creek Open Space Preserve. While specific dog regulations for this entire loop are not detailed, it's common for open space preserves to have leash requirements. Always check local signage or the Marin County Parks website for the most current rules regarding dogs in the preserve.

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of Rush Creek Open Space Preserve. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Marin County Parks website (marincounty.gov) for any updates on regulations or special events that might affect access.

No, electric bicycles are not permitted on the multiuse paths within the Rush Creek Preserve section of this loop. Please plan accordingly if you intend to cycle through the preserve.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride along parts of Pinheiro Fire Road, the 101 Trail, SMART Multiuse Pathway, Miwok Trail, Bahia Ridge Fire Road, Crest Road Fire Road, and Rush Creek Fire Road, among others.