Great Local Hikes for New Year's Day or Any Other Day of the Year

Olompali/Mt. Burdell
Novato

Start 2014 on the right foot with a guided 9-mile hike to Mt. Burdell on January 1. The trail gently switchbacks along the mountain’s eastern slope, making for a pleasant ascent marked by show-stopping vistas and wildlife sightings.  Learn about the park’s remarkable history and natural features.  Meet at the visitor’s center at 9:30 for coffee and tea.  Hike organized by California State Parks and begins at 10 am. Wear sturdy shoes, dress in layers and bring water, snacks, camera and binoculars. $8 parking.

Lucas Valley Loop
Novato

The steady climb in the beginning will warm you up, but don’t give up because 360-degree views of Marin await you at the top. The first 3/4 miles is well- shaded, so bring layers. Allow 3 hours for hike.

Cataract Creek
Bolinas

Cataract Creek Trail offers a 7-mile loop through the scenic lands of the Mount Tamalpais watershed and culminates with Cataract Falls. The loop includes scenic vistas of the Pacific,, narrow single-track into the wooded hillsides into forests of young redwood and Douglas fir.

Steep Ravine
Stinson Beach

A 6.5 mile hike offers sweeping views of the ocean and dense woodland switchbacks next through a steep sided and lush canyon shaded by towering redwood trees. This is a popular trail, so get there early if you can. 1,900 elevation gain.

Palomarin to Alamere Falls
West Marin

Eight-mile hike along cliffs that drop down to the ocean. After about a mile, the trail cuts inland and passes two small lakes (Bass Lake and Pelican Lake). After some time, walkers reach a series of small waterfalls. You can also climb down the rocks to the beach.

Terra Linda and Sleepy Hollow Ridge
Sleepy Hollow

Two mile hike offering good view of parts of Marin. Keep straight on the trail and continue up the hill for the best views or stick to the lower trail if you’re taking it easy or are running. Bring a picnic too.