The Bolinas Ridge Trail runs up to 11 miles one-way along the crest of the ridge dividing Olema Valley from the coast, passing through Douglas fir forest and coast redwoods in the south and open grassland with Tomales Bay views in the north. It's multi-use — open to bikes and leashed dogs — one of the few trails in the seashore that allows both.
Overview
The ridge trail traverses the eastern edge of the seashore along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard's parallel ridgeline, with the Olema Valley below to the east. The southern end passes through a mature mixed forest with some redwoods; the northern 2.4 miles open into grassland with wide views across Tomales Bay. It's a point-to-point trail, so most hikers and cyclists do it as an out-and-back or arrange a car shuttle between the two ends.
What to Expect
The trail gains and loses elevation in stretches but generally follows the ridge contour. Surface is uneven and can be rutted and muddy in winter. Cattle graze the northern sections; close gates behind you. The northern trailhead is near the junction of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and the Olema-Bolinas Road; the southern terminus is at the Fairfax-Bolinas Road junction with West Ridgecrest Road.
Tips & Logistics
Driving to the northern trailhead takes about 5 minutes from Bear Valley; the southern trailhead is about 30 minutes. Dogs on leash (6 feet maximum) are welcome. Bikes are permitted. No permit required. Cattle gates are present — close them.