(NOW SUNDAY, DUE TO RAIN) INDIAN TREE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE: BIG TREES & UPPER MEADOW LOOP
Hike Date: Sunday, April 14, 2024
Leader: Gary Weiss
Leader Email: gary@sfhiking.com
Leader Phone: 415 279-5570
Meeting Times: 9:30 AM from SF, departing shortly afterwards; 9:35 from Rockridge, bottom of escalator. Rating: Level 3
Mileage: 7.75 miles
Elevation Gain: 1200'
Description: I hadn't hiked in this area in at least 10 years - thought I'd check it out again for a prospective hike with the club. This preserve is in north Marin; I expected some oaks and bays in the canyons. What amazed me were several stands of old-growth redwoods and spectacular views to the east from several of the ridges (photo below). We'll follow the entire length of the Big Trees Trail. At the top, after a somewhat brisk uphill, we arrive at the largest stand of redwoods. Nearby, where we'll have lunch are gorgeous views in several directions. We'll begin our descent with a short distance on the only fire road for 1/2 mile - Indian Tree. We'll then take Ship's Mast and Deer Camp Trails before returning to the cars via Upper Meadow. I found this park to be really magical, with very few hikers sharing the trails. I scouted the hike in early December but scheduled it for the Spring since the area is known for having amazing wildflower displays. Well-behaved dogs allowed on leash.
Bring / Wear: Please bring plenty of water, lunch, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes and hiking poles if you use them. And layers. And chocolate!!
Weather Policy: Check with hikeleader in the event of questionable weather.
Trailhead Meeting Place: Take US 101 north to the Atherton Ave/San Marin Dr exit. Go left onto San Marin which becomes Sutro Ave. Sutro dead-ends into Vineyard Rd. Turn right onto Vineyard and go one mile. Park on the left side of the road near the trailhead. Google Maps Link
Trailhead Meeting Time: 10:30 AM
Trailhead Departure Time: 10:45 AM
Total driving distance, there and back: 69 miles from SF; 78 from Rockridge.
easiest < 5 miles < 500' gain
