The Cross Marin Trail follows the historic North Pacific Coast Railroad right-of-way along Lagunitas Creek for up to 10.6 miles round trip on nearly flat, shaded terrain through redwood and mixed forest. One of the few trails in the seashore allowing leashed dogs, it's a low-key walk through one of the greenest corridors on the peninsula.
Overview
The railroad grade along Lagunitas Creek gives the trail its flat character — former rail right-of-ways make for easy walking. The corridor passes through Samuel P. Taylor State Park and the seashore, following the creek through coast redwood groves and mixed forest. The site of an old paper mill is visible along the route.
What to Expect
The surface is a mix of paved and gravel, with some sections of degraded pavement. The trail is wide and well-marked. Lagunitas Creek runs alongside for much of the route. The full round trip is 10.6 miles, but shorter out-and-back options are easy to arrange.
Tips & Logistics
Northern trailhead is about 5 minutes from Bear Valley. Dogs are welcome on leash (6-foot maximum). No permit required. Year-round accessible; can be wet in winter. The trail connects to Samuel P. Taylor State Park trails at the southern end.