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Lucas Valley Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 91 Google reviews · Running trail in San Rafael, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Lucas Valley Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
A 1,271-acre preserve with valley views featuring lots of open space & trails for hiking & riding.
What runners say about Lucas Valley Preserve
“It's beautiful slice of the best Marin county has to offer - and it's a great motorcycle ride out to coast to boot!”
This is my favorite place to hike. The views are outstanding and there is enough shade in most areas to keep you cool. Of that doesn't do it the wind will keep you cool at the top.
Beautiful open space with a lot of moderately steep north south trails and a few easier East West trails. Best known access is probably Big Rock Trail off Lucas Valley road.
Clear hiking path. Open to hikers and cyclists. Some free street parking available. No restrooms. Gradual climb. Be careful about poison oak.
Great hike with views of San Francisco, Marin, and The East Bay. The wild flowers are incredible after the rain as well!
Trail conditions & character
“It's beautiful slice of the best Marin county has to offer - and it's a great motorcycle ride out to coast to boot!”
“Beautiful open space with a lot of moderately steep north south trails and a few easier East West trails.”
Plan your run at Lucas Valley Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Websitemarincountyparks.org
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near San Rafael
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Ignacio Valley Preserve
4.6 ★★★★★ 98 reviews
Undeveloped, 906-acre open space with trails for hiking, mountain biking & horseback riding.
Marinwood Open Space
4.6 ★★★★★ 89 reviews
Nature preserve featuring trails and mountain biking, plus opportunities for children.
Pacheco Valley Preserve
4.5 ★★★★★ 48 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area featuring a waterfall.