FAIRFAX to PHOENIX LAKE

FAIRFAX to PHOENIX LAKE

Hike Date:  Saturday, January 17, 2026

Leader:  Ken Robin

Leader Email:  k.robin@sbcglobal.net

Leader Phone:  510.926.9220

Hike Rating:  Level-3

Hike Mileage:  9.0 miles

Elevation Gain:  1,000'

Description:  The hike route is a figure 8 loop from Deer Park in Fairfax over a ridge to Phoenix Lake, aound Phoenix Lake, and back up and over the ridge on other trails. The hike includes expansive views, deep forest, and one of the prettiest trails along the lake. Most of the hike is on single track trails. The climbs up to the ridge are mostly gradual.

Bring / Wear:  Bring water, comfortable hiking shoes, hat and sunscreen, and lunch.

Rain Policy:  Hike will be cancelled if heavy rain.  If light rain, the hike will go on as planned (...contact the hike leader for any needed clarification).

Dogs:  Woof, yes!  

Deer Park parking lot (map) in Fairfax. Take highway 101 in Marin County to Sir Francis Drake and head west toward Fairfax. At downtown Fairfax turn left just before the theater, a quick right, and then a left onto Bolinas Road. At Porteus turn left, and follow it to Deer Park parking lot.

Trailhead Meeting Time:  10:00 AM  (don't miss the hike, arrive early).

Note:  If you are not a member you can:  1) Become a member by clicking on [Join] above and then register for the hike or 2) Contact me so that I know that you would like to be part of the hike.

Interested in carpooling?  If so, here are the options...

• SF Carpooling Location:  Whole Foods (map) @ 2001 Market Street.  Meet on the Dolores Street side.  There's parking on the street or below the building.

SF Meeting Time:  9:00 AM  (don't miss your ride, arrive early).

• East Bay Carpooling Location:  Rockridge BART station (map).  Meet at the bottom of the escalators.  There's free and ample parking.

East Bay Meeting Time:  8:45 AM  (don't miss your ride, arrive early).

Note:  Please only show up at Whole Foods or the Rockridge BART station if you have arranged a ride ahead of time (see Carpool Fees below).

Total Driving Distance (round trip): 

  46 miles (SF)

  56 miles (Rockridge BART)

Carpool Fees (per passenger): 

  $8* (SF)

  $9* (Rockridge BART)

  *Includes bridge toll.

Note:  I'll reach out to those registered who have indicated that they need a ride or can take passengers.  If you want to contact me for whatever reason, please do so before Friday @ 3:00 PM the day before the hike.