Bolinas Ridge (Golden Gate National Recreation Area)

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Bolinas Ridge is one of the lesser-known jewels in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA). The trail follows the crest of the Bolinas Ridge from Sir Francis Drake Blvd southward to Bolinas-Fairfax Road. It is an 11-mile trail that can be done as either an 11-mile point-to-point with shuttle, or any out-and-back route of up to 22 miles.  The trail is well marked, and offers spectacular views along the way. The trail is mostly fire road or double-track. It starts out from Sir Francis Drake Blvd at about 350 feet elevation, and steadily climbs to about 1700 feet shortly before intersecting with Bolinas-Fairfax Road. For this reason it is better to start the out-and back run from Sir Francis Drake Blvd, so that you have a downhill return.  

There is limited roadside parking at either end of the trail. However, because the trail is not very well traveled, you probably won't have a problem finding roadside parking.  
The Dirt:
  • Click here for a printable trail map of the route!
  • Click here for the official Parks Conservancy website with link to park map.
  • Click here for driving directions to the Sir Francis Drake trailhead.
  • There is no drinking water available along the trail, so please carry enough water with you!
  • Dogs on leash are allowed along the Bollinas Ridge Trail.

Extras:
  • Bolinas Ridge is the start of an amazing 32-mile point-to-point run that ends in San Francisco. Click here for details!

Favorite Run: Bolinas Ridge Out-and-Back (up to 22.2 mi, 2400' elevation gain) ​🐾

This run starts at the north end of the trail along Sir Francis Drake Blvd. You can turn around at any point along the trail, so you can do as long of a run as you want! If you do the entire out-and-back, it is 22.2 miles with 2400' of elevation gain. The trail is entirely dirt road and double-track trail. The route initially passes through rolling grassy hills, then enters a dense redwood forest. The trees become less dense toward the southern end of the trail and there are great views of the Pacific Ocean.

To begin the run, simply head up the well-marked Bolinas Ridge Trail as it climbs up the ridge.

GPX Track

Printable Trail Map

Driving Directions
Route Details:
  • 0.0 mi: Start up the trail leading south from Sir Francis Drake Blvd.
  • 1.4 mi: Pass Jewell Trail on your left.
  • 5.2 mi: Pass Shafter Trail (to Kent Lake) on your left.
  • 11.1 mi: Intersection with Bolinas-Fairfax Road. Turn around and head back to the Sir Francis Drake trailhead.
  • 22.2 mi: Back at the car!

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