Loma Alta, which in the Spanish translates to “tall hill”, is one of the highest points in Marin County, with sweeping vistas in all directions. The Loma Alta Preserve is a jewel in the Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) and provides unique views of Mount Tamalpais to the south.
Loma Alta’s ridge lines—and the exquisite hiking trails that run along them—define and divide the four major watersheds in the county: Miller Creek, Corte Madera Creek, Lagunitas Creek and Nicasio Creek.
When hiking these trails with Otis we have rarely run into other hikers or cyclists, so this is the perfect spot for nature and solitude. Dogs are permitted on-leash on trails and off-leash under voice control on fire roads.
This is our favorite route: From the Glen Road Trailhead (Google Maps link above), take the Glen Fire Road to the Smith Ridge Fire Road, then left onto the Gunshot Fire Road, then the Old Railroad Grade back to your car.