Bolinas Ridge and Cross Marin Trail

On this Sunday Ride we explore the rugged Bolinas Ridge Fire Road and the accommodating Cross Marin Trail/Bike Path in Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Although I describe a long and challenging ride, with a little creativity each segment could be ridden individually. The Cross Marin Trail/Bike Path makes an ideal location for a leisurely ride or a trip with the kids.

The views from Bolinas Ridge as you approach Olema and Tomales Bay are outstanding, but getting there requires more than a few pedal strokes. We pickup from Phoenix Lake in Ross where climbing up Shaver Grade will warm up your legs. Shaver Grade ends at Sky Oaks Road and to the right a dirt road continues on the opposite side. Pass by Alpine Lake as you make your way through serene Bon Tempe Meadow and around Meadow Club Golf Course. Thank you Meadow Club Golf Course for a sweet shortcut that takes cyclists right out the front gates!

Fairfax-Bolinas Road is a treasure for roadies and mountain bikers alike. Starting at the golf course (elevation 720 feet) allows you to skip the busy and steep ascent from downtown Fairfax. As you crest over the top of Azalea Hill get ready for a descent that will remind you why cycling is so much fun. As you lean into gentle twists and turns the brakes are hardly necessary. At the impressive Alpine Lake dam the top of formidable Bolinas Ridge sits 900 feet above. Going up?

If you choose to pursue the crest take heart in knowing the pitch is consistent and manageable. The redwoods offer shade and the numerous switchbacks will keep your mind off the leg burn. As you approach the top remind yourself that a trail with loamy redwood soil awaits. The intersection of Fairfax-Bolinas Road and West Ridgecrest Boulevard offers a few parking spots should you want to fast-forward to the Bolinas Ridge Fire Road.

Once on the dirt a few quick climbs tease you before the general slope of the ridge is down towards Tomales Bay. The trees give way to grasses and the views are invigorating. Key an eye out for a signed right on Jewel Trail that drops to meet the Cross Marin Trail/Bike Path.

Within Samuel P. Taylor State Park the Cross Marin Trail is simply a must. The path, following the old Northwest Pacific railroad line, is fun for everyone from athletes to children. With the scent of campfire in the air you might catch yourself thinking you are on vacation. The path ends at Ink Wells Bridge over the confluence of San Geronimo Creek and Lagunitas Creek.

At Ink Wells Bridge the dirt climbs steeply on the other side of Sir Francis Drake so I prefer to spin home on the road. Taking the side route of San Geronimo Valley Drive puts you onto quiet residential streets at the modest price of a few little hills. Back briefly on SFD a 150-foot climb is the last on the ride. As an added bonus a trail to the right almost immediately double-backs underneath the bridge to take you into Fairfax. After 4.5 hours of continuous riding I have returned to the comfort of home. Huzzah!

Marin is rich with cycling locations and Bolinas Ridge and the Cross Marin Trail are both worthy of your next adventure.

Feel free to contact me with questions or recommendations regarding this ride. As always the Marin County Bicycle Coalition map is a great resource.