Enjoy Marin county parks! Popular with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and birders, the 552 acre Rush Creek Preserve has something for everyone. The wide, mostly flat trails are perfect for the littlest hikers, all levels of mountain bikers, or those looking for a place to take a leisurely a stroll in a beautiful setting. Birders will be rewarded with one of the best locations for bird watching in Novato with over 190 regularly occurring species to view, including Red-winged Blackbirds and Sandpipers.
One of the main trailheads is located just off of Highway 101 where you’ll start out on the Pinheiro Fire Road along the Rush Creek Marsh. Or venture into the Bahia neighborhood to find trailheads along Bugeia Lane and Bahia Avenue. The preserve is perfect for out and back adventures of any length or a two to three mile loop.
Hikers have spotted jack rabbits, fox, coyotes, deer, and even an occasional bobcat in this plentiful wildlife area. The trail meanders through rolling, oak studded hills and mixed broadleaf forests including the largest stand of blue oak trees in the county.
The trails can get hot in the summertime, so don’t forget to wear a hat and bring plenty of water. Dogs are allowed on leash.
For more information about Rush Creek Preserve, please visit the Marin County Parks website.
