Novato, California

Looking for the best running in Novato? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Novato. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Novato

  • Redwood City, California

    Cordilleras & Dusty-Footed Woodrat Loop

    3.7
    3.83 mi / 676 ft gain
    Getting there: exit Highway 280 at Edgewood Road, travel .75 miles east, turn left on Crestview Drive, then immediately left again on Edmonds Road. Once parked, there are several different path options through the park. All of them connect in a large loop, and return to the parking lot. The Cord...
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  • Emerald Hills, California

    Edgewood Loop

    4.0
    3.29 mi / 607 ft gain
    Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve rests in San Mateo County, California. The sweeping hillsides exemplify the true native flora of California, as the foundation of rock and soil is poor in nutrients. Only a few specialized native plants are adapted to live here--don't miss the unique wildflower ...
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  • Emerald Hills, California

    Sylvan Loop Trail

    2.53 mi / 522 ft gain
    Sylvan Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Redwood City, California.
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  • Livermore, California

    Condor, Volvan, Stone Corral, Coyote Loop

    4.5
    4.38 mi / 620 ft gain
    This regional preserve is perfect for day hikes. There are also designated campsites and even a backpack campsite. Horses and dogs are welcome in the preserve. There are many different clearly marked trails that one can choose from. A good 4.5 mile loop is to start at the Park Residence entrance...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Whittemore Gulch and Harkins Ridge Loop Trail

    4.6
    6.43 mi / 1772 ft gain
    There are two places to park for this specific loop- the main parking area on Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) and a smaller parking lot on the western end of the park. I would recommend parking at whichever is closest. Find directions to both on Openspace.org. From the main parking lot, the trail...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Whittemore Gulch and Purisima Creek Loop Trail

    9.27 mi / 2165 ft gain
    The Whittemore Gulch and Purisima Creek Loop Trail, nestled in the scenic Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve near Redwood City, California, is a popular choice for hikers looking for a moderately challenging yet rewarding experience. This 9-mile loop trail winds through lush redwood fo...
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  • Napa, California

    Zim Zim Falls

    5.0
    7.88 mi / 866 ft gain
    This 8 mile (out and back) hike begins at the trail head off of Knoxville Road, just before mile marker 24. The first 3 miles are relatively flat, though you will cross the creek about 9 times. Right before you reach the waterfall, you will come to a fork in the trail marked by a pink boulder. St...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Stulsaft Park Loop

    4.0
    0.91 mi / 98 ft gain
    Stulsaft Park Loop in Redwood City, California, is a scenic and family-friendly 0.9-mile loop trail, ideal for hiking, walking, and running. This is a relatively easy stroll with only 98 feet of elevation gain and is accessible for people of all fitness levels. This trail is also particularly pop...
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  • Redwood City, California

    Crystal Springs Trail Loop

    4.0
    5.4 mi / 1227 ft gain
    This is a great hike for any season of the year, with rushing streams during the winter, wildflowers in the spring, and cool, shaded canyons during the summer. Starting from near the Zwierlein Picnic area, take the Crystal Springs to the left into the redwood forest. Stay straight at the next tr...
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