Hike around Phoenix Lake

San Francisco › Phoenix Lake Trail

Save List Review

193 Saves

Phoenix Lake is the easiest to access of all Mt. Tam’s lakes. Bring the whole family for the 2.7 mile hike around the lake. Enjoy being far enough from the city to not hear traffic or see buildings.

Enjoy the peacefulness of making it out to the lake for a quick hike without worrying too much about challenging climbs or difficult terrain. Take the wide fire road from the car uphill and then jump on the Phoenix Lake Trail. From here, you’ll combine this trail with the Gertrude Orr and Bill Williams trails.

Make sure you get here early on nice days or weekends. The parking lot holds about 20 cars and can fill up quickly. If you the spots are gone, it's not the biggest deal. Park along Lagunitas Road and add about 5-10 minutes of extra hiking depending on how far down the road you have to park.

Pack List

Baby Carrier Pack or Regular Backpack
Water
Food
Sunscreen
Hat
Athletic Shoes

Please respect the places you find on The Outbound.

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Be aware of local regulations and don't damage these amazing places for the sake of a photograph. Learn More

Activities:

Chillin, Fitness, Hiking, Running

Skill Level:

Beginner

Season:

Year Round

Trail Type:

Loop

Distance:

2.7 Miles

Elev. Gain:

200 Feet

Rating:

Features:

Dog Friendly

Family Friendly

Lake

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How to Get There

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Reviews

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Andrew Lovering Follow

over 2 years ago

Hike around Phoenix Lake

Wild turkeys, turtles, and I have heard of otters being seen.

over 2 years ago

Added by Jennifer Heifferon

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