Hike the Roys Redwood Preserve Loop

Roy's Redwoods Preserve is an easily missed pocket of Redwoods off Nicasio Valley Road in Marin County. Don't miss it: heading North on Sir Francis Drake Blvd turn right onto Nicasio Valley Rd--the gate for this little park is about a half mile up on the right. From the main entrance you enter a meadow, from which you can choose a number of shaded paths that bring you deeper into the redwoods--some of the largest in the county!

For an easy trek try the Roy's Redwood Nature Trail, which will take you on a loop around the preserve. For more of a challenge climb the steep Dickson Ridge Fire Road for a rewarding view of Mt Tamalpais. You can also just wander around on the many unofficial trails, as I did, enjoying the solitude and views.

This small area is great for a getting a taste of some giant, beautiful redwoods without a big hike. Romp around, eat an apple, sit under a big tree.