4.8
(165)
3,589
hikers
20
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Mill Valley offer access to a diverse landscape at the foot of Mount Tamalpais. The region features majestic redwood forests, lush oak woodlands, and picturesque rolling hills. Hikers can explore deep canyons and enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. This varied terrain provides a range of experiences for different activity levels.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
7
hikers
16.6km
04:13
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
28
hikers
11.7km
03:34
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(2)
7
hikers
13.6km
04:18
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
69
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
48
hikers
7.06km
02:06
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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One of the best views in the entire Bay Area. No question.
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Now open for more than a hundred years, this inn welcomes visitors high on the flanks of Mount Tamalpais. The guestrooms mostly face east, but the grounds include great vantages to the west over the Bay. There's also a restaurant, and this has been voted one of the most romantic spots in the Bay Area several times over.
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Mount Tam East Peak offers some of the most majestic views north of the bay. From this vantage point, you can see all of Marin, along with Point Reyes to the north and Oakland and San Francisco to the south. The stunning panoramic vistas make the journey well worth the effort. There are restrooms and picnic tables, ideal for a snack or lunch while you capture some incredible photos.
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Just before the last ascent of East Ridgecrest Blvd toward the East Peak of Mt Tamalpais is the Railway Grade Fireroad Trailhead on the south side, and a few dozen yards furthe south, the Eldridge Grade Fire Road down on the north side.
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Great stop over along the trails on Mount Tam at the intersection of Old Railroad Grade, Old Stage, and Nora trails. Sit and enjoy the views from the wrap-around porch of this former hotel/restaurant built over 100 years ago when 'the crookedest railroad' carried weekend tourists up to the summit of Mount Tam. Today volunteers maintain the idyllic inn, provide hiking information and self-serve honor-based snacks and refreshments.
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Great lookout with a usually closed summit hut at 2571 feet (784 m) elevation. Outstanding views of the Bay, Marin County, San Francisco, and the Pacific Ocean.
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This historic hotel with a long history, was built in 1912 by a Swiss-German immigrant couple who were homesick for their native Alps. It is perched on the ridge between the Mount Tamalpais peaks, high above Mill Valley, and boasts excellent views of Marin. It is a favorite spot to stay as a mountain getaway for outdoor enthusiasts in the Bay area, so much so that even celebrities like Goldie Hawn, the Grateful Dead and Jack London have stayed here.
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There are over 20 hiking routes around Mill Valley that are easily accessible by bus. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from leisurely strolls to more challenging ascents, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
Yes, Mill Valley offers several easy, family-friendly options accessible by bus. The Mill Valley - Sausalito Path is a great choice, offering a relatively flat and scenic route perfect for families. You can also find gentle paths within Old Mill Park, which is a charming community park with redwoods.
Absolutely. Many of the trails in Mill Valley are designed as loops or can be combined to form circular routes, allowing you to start and finish your hike conveniently from a bus stop. For example, the Matt Davis Trail and Rock Spring Trail Loop offers a fantastic circular experience with diverse landscapes.
Mill Valley's bus-accessible trails boast incredibly diverse and scenic views. You can expect to hike through majestic redwood forests, lush oak woodlands, and open grasslands. Many routes offer stunning panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the San Francisco Bay, and the iconic Mount Tamalpais. Trails like the Sun, Redwood, Lost, Bootjack and Dipsea Loop provide a fantastic mix of these landscapes.
For those seeking a challenge, Mill Valley does not disappoint. The region is home to routes that ascend Mount Tamalpais, offering significant elevation gain and rewarding views. The Nora Trail โ Mount Tamalpais โ East Peak loop from Muir Woods National Monument is a moderate to challenging option that takes you through varied terrain towards the peak.
Dog policies vary by trail and park. While many areas in Marin County are dog-friendly, some sensitive natural areas, like parts of Muir Woods National Monument, have restrictions. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out with your furry friend. Generally, dogs on leash are permitted on many fire roads and designated trails in Mount Tamalpais State Park and other open space preserves.
The bus-accessible trails around Mill Valley are rich with natural beauty and landmarks. You can explore ancient redwood groves, discover picturesque waterfalls like Laurel Dell Falls and Carson Falls, especially after rainfall. Many routes also lead to stunning viewpoints on Mount Tamalpais Summits, offering expansive vistas. The famous Cardiac Hill on the Dipsea Trail is another notable feature.
Mill Valley offers excellent hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides crisp air and clear views. Summer is popular, but trails can be busy; starting early helps avoid crowds and heat. Winter can be beautiful with fewer people and potentially dramatic weather, but some trails might be muddy. Always check weather conditions before you go.
The bus-accessible trails in Mill Valley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from towering redwoods to expansive bay views, and the convenience of accessing such natural beauty directly from public transport. The well-maintained trails and the sense of immersion in nature are frequently highlighted.
Yes, you can find bus-accessible trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls, particularly during the rainy season (winter and spring). The Dawn Falls Trail, located in Cascade Park, is a popular choice that winds through redwoods to the picturesque Dawn Falls. The Cataract Trail ๐ฒ is also known for its series of cascades.
While not directly from Mill Valley bus stops, many trails in the broader Marin Headlands area, which are accessible via public transport connections, offer spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge. From higher elevations on Mount Tamalpais, accessible via routes like the Dipsea Steps loop from Mill Valley, you can often catch glimpses of the bridge and the San Francisco skyline on clear days.
Yes, some bus-accessible trails connect to or pass near Muir Woods National Monument. While the monument itself requires reservations for entry, trails like the Dipsea Trail can lead you through the surrounding areas, offering a chance to experience the majestic redwoods. The National Park Service website provides detailed information on planning your visit.


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