Marin County, located in northern California, stretches along the Pacific ocean north of San Francisco. It offers numerous county parks, such as Bolinas Park, McInnis Park, Paradise Beach Park and Stafford Lake Park among many more. The region is fairly temperate, but does experience a rainy season and can get quite cool in the winter so hikers should check weather reports and prepare before heading out. Hikers can enjoy many opportunities to hit the trails throughout the year, on beaches and mountains, and among many different groups.
Religious Hikes
If you are looking for a chance to hike while also getting involved with a local religious group, there are multiple options. The Bay Area Jewish Singles Hiking Club offers tours that are focused on singles and a chance to meet fellow Jewish single outdoor enthusiasts. There is also a North Bay Christian Hikers group for Christian hikers, both experts and beginners. Both groups are open to newcomers.
Times and Dates
You can find a group on nearly any day and at any time. There are weekday groups as well as weekend groups, usually starting in the morning or early afternoon. However, one group, the Marin Moonshiners, specifically offers hikes during the night when you can enjoy the moonlight. All hikes recommend checking in advance during bad weather to make sure the outing is still scheduled.
Beach Hiking
If you are looking for something a bit flatter, there are numerous beaches offering beautiful hiking opportunities in Marin County. There are several beach hiking groups, such as the Larkspur walking group, and other larger groups, such as the Sierra Club Marin Group offer beach hikes as well as hill and mountain hikes. Five tours are flat enough that they are recommended for seniors and women with babies.
Marin Headlands Hiking
If you are looking for something a little more challenging, you can enjoy many different hikes in the headlands. Trails vary in length and difficulty. For an easier time you can explore the Old Bunker Road Loop, which is mostly paved and just one and a half miles. More adventurous hikers can go on the little over five-mile Hill 88 Loop, which features rock staircases and a steep ascent. One of the longest routes, Bolinas Ridge, is 11.5 miles one way and offers brilliant views, while many of the shortest routes are just over a mile. Groups offer varied hikes on different trails at different levels and lengths.
Types of Groups
You can select from several options to find the best type of hiking group to match your interests or needs. The Sierra Club offers nature-based hikes led by a series of hiking leaders connected to the local chapter of the club. The Mt. Tam Interpretive Association is led by volunteers and offers people a chance to get involved with the hiking community by learning about the trails, leading others, and preserving the hiking areas. The Pacific Trail Society offers informal hikes for people looking to enjoy the outdoors without needing to be an expert. There are options for everyone interested in lacing their shoelaces and hitting the trails.
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