PHOENIX & BON TEMPE LAKES & THE SURROUNDING HILLS
Hike Date: Saturday, June 18, 2022
Leader: Gary Weiss
Leader Email: gary@sfhiking.com
Leader Phone: 415-279-5570
Meeting Time: 8:45 AM
Departure Time: Shortly after 8:45 AM
Rating: Level 4
Mileage: 11 miles
Elevation Gain: 1600'
Description: We'll start this gorgeous hike at Marin Stables in Fairfax which look about the same as they did when they were built in 1937. Passing the stables we'll start out on a gentle trail that takes us up to Boy Scout Junction. The next 2+ miles we'll be on trails that circle the Deer Park canyon and give us almost non-stop views of Mt. Tam from different angles. They'll ultimately take us down to Phoenix Lake. We'll be in a dense redwood canyon for lunch before circling the lake. After a .7 mile climb we'll be on a ridge overlooking Bon Tempe Lake (the photo above was taken from that trail). If it happens to be a hot day there are plenty of options to abbreviate the hike. All trails will be system trails - no off-trail, although several are little used. The great majority of the route will be in the shade. It's all in the Water District so dogs are ok!
Bring / Wear: Please bring LOTS of water, lunch, a hat, sturdy hiking shoes and poles if you'd like.
Weather Policy: Contact hikeleader if weather is questionable.
Trailhead Meeting Place: From US 101 exit at the San Anselmo/Sir Francis Drake Blvd exit. At the only large intersection (Red Hill) keep left to stay on SF Drake. In Fairfax turn left on Pacheco - immediately past a tiny gas station on the left. Immediately turn right onto Broadway. At the end of the block turn left onto Bolinas Rd. Shortly you'll see a small sign on the left for Deer Park. Turn left there, on Porteous. Very soon make a right onto Wood Lane. Parking is on the right side of the street only. Should be plenty of available spots. If it has filled up before you arrive, park on Porteous. We'll meet inside the gate to the stables which are at the end of Wood Lane (one block long). Google Maps Link
Trailhead Meeting Time: 9:45 AM
Trailhead Departure Time: 10:00 AM
Total driving mileage to and from San Francisco: 45 miles
easiest < 5 miles < 500' gain
