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Ring Mountain Loop

Corte Madera, California

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

2.65 miles

Elevation Gain

597 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Elyse Mercedes

Ring Mountain Open Space is the best place to spot all the amazing wildflowers in Marin County. The best time to see wild flowers in Marin can range to when we get some good rain fall. Ring Mountain also holds sacred a very rare flower, the Tiburon Mariposa Lily.

Ring Mountain Open Space is an easy but uphill trail that take you to the top where you can explore more trails.

Take the 101 exit for Paradise Dr in Corte Madera, follow the road, and park on the side of the road once you pass Westward Dr. Even though there are many places to start the trail for Ring Mountain, this route will give you one the best views of the Bay Bridge as you hike.

The trailhead will start at either the Phyllis Ellman Trail or the Loop Trail. Both will take you up the mountain. You should spot some small but amazing wildflowers in the spring.

Once at the top, you get a rare view of Tiburon and parts of Marin County. Feel the luxury of how a millionaire lives and be happy that the people of Marin in 1995 protected this land from development. If it's a clear day look southwest and you will spot San Francisco. Ring Mountain easily gives you a 360 view of the Bay Area.

Be mindful of where you walk, there are protected areas to allow flowers and plants to flourish. And look very closely to the ground to find the rare Tiburon Mariposa Lily. This flower can only be found in Marin County and mainly on this mountain. I haven't yet been able to spot it. Good luck and enjoy!

I suggest the best time is March-May. Read more and learn more on the Marin County Parks website for Ring Mountain.

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Features

Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Ring Mountain Loop Reviews

Upon parking on the side of the road, and starting at the trail head, there is a pretty good elevation gain all the way to the top of the mountain through some beautiful tree groves, and a creek that runs down the mountain with some small falls. At the top you can view the whole Bay Area on a clear day, and can boulder the rock at the top of the mountain. Great hike for beginners and families. Be forewarned, it gets very slick after any significant rains.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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