Bolinas Ridge

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Bolinas Ridge Trail is an old ranching road that winds through pastures high above Olema Valley. It can be started from either end or done in sections. Depending on the season or daily whims of mother nature, this trail can be hot and dusty, or wet and foggy.

From the roadside parking off Sir Francis Drake Blvd., climb a moderately steep ridge to attain the top of the ridge. After about 2 miles you reach the junction with Jewell trail to the left. Continue on the Bolinas Ridge Trail, gaining elevation gradually on wide open slopes. Views start appearing: Inverness Ridge to the west, Tomales Bay to the north, and Bolinas Lagoon.

The trail treks past forests of Douglas fir and redwood groves which get more dense and lush the further south you go. The ridge is scattered with cattle chutes, fences, barns, and corrals. Soon you come to the junction with Shafter Grade and a pond next to five eucalyptus planted in a tight row. These "Five Sisters" are visible from as far away as Tomales Bay and mark the former Longley family homestead.

Next, the conifer forest begins to close in and The Randall Trail appears on the right, soon followed by the McCurdy Trail. The cool, dark fir and redwood forest is fully enveloping for the remainder of the trip to trail's end at the Bolinas-Fairfax Road junction with Ridgecrest Blvd.

Beware of the abundant cow patties- some trail users report aggressive cows, others have had no problems. Also note: Horses, dogs and bikes are allowed on this trail. Some folks report getting ticks on their canine companions after using this trail.

Redwoods, Douglas fir, oak, coyote brush, chaparral. Weasel, ermine, deer.