Six Spectacular Spring Hikes for Families in Marin

Spring in California is spectacular, with an abundance of wildflowers, waterfalls (provided it rains), and wildlife. Before the summer heat bakes the hillside grass brown, get the family out on the trail at one of these great Marin hiking spots. These hikes are perfect for a family outing at almost any time of year, but are especially nice during the spring. These trails are easy enough for everyone in the family to tackle.

Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve near Tiburon is home to spring wildflowers and spectacular views of San Francisco Bay and Mt. Tam. The trails here are great for kids of all ages and even offroad strollers. Best of all, it's located right near Tiburon and Corte Madera.

Martin Griffin Preserve at Audubon Canyon Ranch near Stinson Beach offers miles of easy hiking trails for families, as well as fun and fascinating educational opportunities. This preserve, a nesting site for Great Herons, is only open on weekends from mid-March through mid-July.

Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve in Novato is home to wildflowers, wildlife, stunning views, and miles of fire roads and trails to explore. Hidden Lake higher up on the mountain is a seasonal pond is a popular spot for young naturalists to look for critters like frogs and newts.

Chimney Rock in the Point Reyes National Seashore boasts a dazzling array of wildflowers, amazing views of Drakes Bay and the Pacific Ocean, an overlook that gives visitors a look at a beach full of Northern Elephant Seals in the winter and spring, and even an historic Coast Guard lifeboat station down by the water. It's well worth the drive.

Muir Woods National Monument near Mill Valley is favorite destination for tourists and locals alike. It's an especially amazing place in the spring, and offers a variety of trails for all ages that wind through a rare old-growth redwood forest. Bonus points for having a restaurant and gift shop on-site, too.

Sky Oaks outside Fairfax offers access to the numerous trails and picnic areas surrounding Lakes Lagunitas and Bon Tempe. This area, administered by the Marin Municipal Water District, offers great wildlife watching opportunities and easy trails that are perfect for families.