Decent hikes for all abilities!
Days/Nights - 1/Day Hikes Only
Miles - 7.22
Elevation Gain - 1,732
Starting Elevation - 268
Ending Elevation - 268
Highest Elevation - 906
See AllTrails here
Overview:
Indian Valley preserve is a 558 acre gorgeous setting in south-mid Novato that through its interlocking trail systems gives opportunity to do long/short and flat/hilly hikes to suit all levels of hikers. It also happens to be a place I hike almost daily as one of its trailheads sits about a half mile from my house.
There are several trailheads: College of Marin, Indian Valley Road, and Rowland Boulevard, although it can also be accessed from Loma Verde/Big Rock trailheads also (for longer more challenging hikes).
There are very few "views" as much of the preserve is low-lying and/or forested, but as you climb the flanks of the canyon the heart of this runs through, there are several glimpses through the trees.
There is a main fire road running through the preserve, with single-track trails that climb up from the fire road creating the opportunity for nice loops. There are several steep climbs that are lung-busters going up or require a careful watch for your footing on the way down, but nothing requiring scrambling or continued use of hands. Buzzard Burn is about the steepest continued section if you are looking for a climb.
Wildlife abounds with coyotes, bobcats and rattlesnakes being about the most dangerous of possible encounters - but in each instance, they are likely to do their best to slink away versus face an encounter with a human. BUT, especially in late spring and summer, you have to be diligent about watching your feet on the narrow single tracks to avoid a snake encounter - rattlesnakes do like to sun themselves on the dusty trails.
On the higher trails and more "remote" areas you can enjoy relative solitude, but you will pass hikers frequently, depending on the time of day. Despite its relative easiness, people do get hurt from falls etc., and there are sections where a fellow hiker might only pass every hour or two. On the lower easier trails you will see families, dog walkers and bikers constantly.
From May - November, the trails tend to be hard & dusty, surrounded by dry yellow brush and trees. Once the rains start, trails can get a little muddy, and there are several waterfalls and seasonal streams - quite beautiful. Pacheco Pond is a year-round pond with ducks, fish, & turtles. It is worth incorporating into your hikes and is particularly magnificent during the early morning or at sunset.
The trail listed above is about the most challenging of trails, but as mentioned, this can be customized to your time availability, abilities, and/or preferences of terrain. This preserve has something for everybody!
