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Best backpacking hiking trails in Marin County
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Best backpacking hiking trails in Marin County

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in Marin County.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Loop around Richardson East

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 10 min

2

Medium

Laguna, Coast, Ocean Lake and Sky Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (7) · 37.8 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

3

Easy

Bear Valley, Divide Meadow and Glen Camp Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 15.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 44 min

4

Medium

Bear Valley Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 28.6 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

5

Medium

Matt Davis, Mount Tamalpais West Point, Mount Tamalpais East Peak and Steep Ravine Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 24.2 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

6

Medium

Wildcat Lake and Ocean Lake Loop via Coast Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (6) · 18.1 km · Est. 4 hrs 26 min

7

Easy

Sky, Woodward Valley and Laguna Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (6) · 17.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 23 min

8

Medium

Muddy Hollow - Woodward Valley - Fire Lane - Sky Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 19.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 50 min

9

Easy

Coast Trail from Palomarin Beach

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (7) · 24.9 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

10

Easy

Shafter Grade, Bolinas Ridge and Cross Marin Loop Trail

Marin County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 16.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 59 min

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in Marin County

Amb. Clarisa Torphy avatar

Loop around Richardson East

SprinterSpruceseeker19 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Latricia Boyer avatar

Laguna, Coast, Ocean Lake and Sky Loop Trail

SummitviewPeakdreamer89 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Moon Kessler V avatar

Bear Valley, Divide Meadow and Glen Camp Loop Trail

DriftwoodTrailmaster88 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jaymie Steuber avatar

Bear Valley Trail

HollowCampfinder84 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mrs. Martin Casper avatar

Matt Davis, Mount Tamalpais West Point, Mount Tamalpais East Peak and Steep Ravine Loop Trail

EchoHorizon74 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Marin County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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