6 Spectacular Spring Wildflower Hikes for Families in Marin
Spring in California is spectacular, with an abundance of wildflowers, seasonal waterfalls, and wildlife. Before the summer heat bakes the green hillsides brown, get the family out on the trail at one of these great Marin hiking spots with wonderful spring wildflower displays.
These hikes are perfect for a family outing at almost any time of year, but of course are especially nice during March and April. All the trails mentioned here are easy enough for everyone in the family to tackle, too.
Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve, Tiburon
This 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.
Marin Headlands, Sausalito
Located at the very south end of Marin County, the Marin Headlands has an amazing wildflower display at Fort Cronkhite Beach and thoughout the area. When you're there, don't forget to visit the Marine Mammal Center too!
Bear Valley, Point Reyes National Seashore
Bear Valley, home to the Point Reyes National Seashore Visitor Center, puts on a pretty spectacular spring wildflower display. It's also home to some great hiking trails for families, like the Earthquake Trail, a picnic area, the trailhead for the Bear Valley Trail, and even Kule Loklo, a reconstructed Coast Miwok village.
Chimney Rock, Point Reyes National Seashore
This spot near the lighthouse in 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.
Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve, Novato
Mount Burdell 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.
O'Hair Park, Novato
This park in west Novato offers an easy two-mile loop trail that's perfect for families. You'll see plenty of wildflowers along the trail in the spring, as well as ferns and even a small stand of redwood trees. There's even a conveniently placed bench about midway along the trail that's a perfect place to sit and relax for a few minutes. It's adjacent to the Dogbone Meadow dog park and it's a popular place for dog walkers.
