Indian Tree Preserve

Fields of ferns, mature redwood groves, and ridgeline vistas in Novato

Rangers Recommend

Nicely graded Big Trees Trail lives up to its name. Ascend through stands of redwoods and mature woodlands that open up to scenic views of Stafford Lake.
There are plenty of options for day long treks. If you aim for the top, don't miss Ship’s Mast Trail, a forested traverse through a quiet redwood grove. On a clear day look for the outline of Mount Saint Helena at the edge of Lake County.
West wind breezes and north facing slopes cloaked in oak, bay, and madrone will keep you cool in summer.
A significant portion of the roads and trails in this 242-acre preserve are designated hiker/equestrian only, making it a popular spot for local horse riders.
Dogs are welcome. Dogs must be leashed on trail, and under voice command on fire roads, with leash readily available.

Naturalist Notes

Madrone berries and manzanita blossoms are abundant in winter.
Shooting stars and mission bells flower in spring.
Coyotes and bobcats have been spotted here.
Check out the iNaturalist field guide[External]. Add your own observations.

Activities

Bike

Dogs Voice Control

Dogs On Leash

Hike

Horseback Riding

Know Before You Go

Stay on roads and trails to preserve sensitive ecosystems and to avoid trespassing on private property.
Be courteous and safety conscious when sharing roads and trails. Go slow and say hello [External].
Dress appropriately for the weather. Trails can be muddy during rainy season.
Bring water.
There are no restrooms at this location.
Steer clear of poison oak.
After an outing, check for ticks.

Novato's getaway in the redwoods

Directions

From Hwy 101 in Novato, take exit 463 for San Marin Dr west 2.7 miles. San Marin Dr turns into Sutro Ave at Novato Blvd. Follow Sutro Ave 1 mile, turn right at Vineyard Rd and follow 1 mile. Trailhead is on the left where the paved road becomes a dirt road.

Parking

There is usually plenty of parking along Vineyard Road.

Public Transit

You can also dial 511 to find out about transit options from your location.

Map

Enter your location

38.104048

-122.635779

All visitors must respect rules to keep the preserves safe and sustainable.

Tab 3 Content

ALL VISITORS

No smoking or fires.
Weapons and hunting prohibited.
Motorized vehicles prohibited. (Individuals with qualified disabilities may operate certain kinds of zero-emission mobility devices on some roads,multiuse trails, and certain other facilities.)
Everyone must yield the right-of-way to horses. Bikes must also yield to pedestrians.
No model airplanes, drones, or other self-propelled crafts.
Permit required for commercial use and groups of more than 15 people.
Dispose of waste properly. Pack it out.
All resources are protected. Do not follow, approach, or feed wildlife.

DOGS

Dogs may be off-leash on fire roads only if kept under voice control. Leash must always be readily available.
Dogs are allowed on signed trails and must be leashed. Leash must not exceed 6 feet in length.
Off-fire road and off-trail use prohibited.
Individuals accompanying dogs are required to clean up and remove pet waste.
A maximum of 3 dogs per person is allowed. No commercial dog walking permitted in this preserve.

BIKES

Permitted on signed fire roads and trails designated for multiuse and hikers/bikes.
Off-fire road and off-trail use prohibited.
Speed limit is 15 mph or less. Must slow to 5 mph when passing others or around blind turns.
Electric bicycles are not permitted.

HORSES

Permitted on signed fire roads and trails designated for multiuse and hikers/horses.
Off-fire road and off-trail use prohibited except when watering or resting the horse.

In an emergency, call 911. To report an incident or suspicious activity, call the Ranger Field Office at 415-473-2816 or submit an Incident Report.

Visitors are responsible for knowing and obeying all Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) regulations. Citations will be issued for violations. Read the official regulations: Marin County Municipal Code Appendix A.

Call 415-473-6387 for more information regarding allowable types and use of mobility devices for people with qualified disabilities.

The MCOSD is a special district pursuant to the California Public Resources Code. Marin County Parks oversees the management of the county parks system and provides public information on behalf of the MCOSD.