I have been steadily moving north in Marin County, exploring all the off-leash dog-friendly portions of the Marin County Open Space Preserve system. The Lucas Valley Preserve is one to do when you and your dog need a serious workout.
Film director George Lucas donated 800 acres to help create the 1,271-acre preserve. The name Lucas Valley dates to an early settler, John Lucas, who lived here in the mid-1800s on a 7,600-acre ranch.
“Steep” does not do justice to the incline at the beginning of the hike, but “absolutely worth it” pretty much sums up the end. The highlight of this preserve is the summit of Big Rock Ridge which, at 1,895 feet, is the second highest point in Marin County after Mount Tamalpais. The views from the top are spectacular, including 360-degree panorama of the entire Bay Area.
Get directions to the Luiz Fire Road trailhead using the Google Maps link above. Park on Creekside Drive and ascend Luiz Fire Road to the Big Rock Ridge Fire Road. If you’ve made it this far, you’ve earned the views in all directions and can head back down.
But if you and your dog are feeling particularly energetic, continue by hiking the Big Rock Ridge Fire Road west to the summit of Big Rock Ridge.
Dogs must be leashed on trail and under voice command on fire roads, which in this preserve means most of the route. Bring plenty of water for you and the canine companion!