Big Rock Ridge is part of the Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD). Extensive lands in Marin are preserved by this district. This particular trail is one of the newest additions, having been purchased by George Lucas and donated in exchange for permission to build the complex you see in some of the pictures. This is a moderately strenuous hike, gaining 1100 feet in three or four miles. On a clear day you get sweeping views of the Marin County ridgetops, San Francisco Bay, and a lot more. The feminine-shaped green hills will be blanketed with wildflowers soon, and then will turn yellow-brown in the summer. Who says we have no seasons? To go to this trail, take the Lucas Valley Road (note: it was Lucas Valley Road long before George Lucas got here) exit from 101 north of San Rafael, drive about eight miles to Big Rock (the third picture in this series) and park. There are trails on either side of the road—south goes to Loma Alta, a much easier hike; north goes to big rock ridge. Mountain bikes are allowed, as are dogs on leash. Today I saw Red-Tailed Hawks, American Kestrels, Turkey Vultures, blue jays, black-tailed deer, and cows.
Click a pic...
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