Bonus Sherpa: Ready Made Marin

Rodeo Round Up: The Marin Headlands has more points of interest than an iPhone app, and one of the best ways to see them is via a 3.5-mile hike from Rodeo Beach to Point Bonita Lighthouse. The views just keep on coming as you cross Bird Island overlook, go in search of an old shipwreck, detour to the lighthouse, and pass one of Marin's best barbecue spots.

Lake Lolling: Go on a 1.8-mile stroll around the highest and smallest of five lakes on Mount Tam's less-traveled north side. Keep an eye out for osprey and pond turtles.

Inn Love: Grab your favorite hiking partner and some picnic goodies for a 3.75-mile hike on Mount Tam. Start at the elegantly rustic Mountain Home Inn and make your way to the charming 104-year-old West Point Inn; the picnic grounds here dish out heart-throbbing views of the Pacific and San Francisco Bay.

Ring Around the Mountain: Close to Corte Madera lies an unassuming yet expansive grassland preserve that was saved from becoming a subdivision. Meander for 3 miles around Ring Mountain and clamber atop Turtle Rock for panoramic views of Mount Tam, Richardson Bay, and downtown San Francisco.

Humble Gerbode: Just minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge is a bowl-shaped valley with bowl-you-over views. Gerbode Valley is the lesser-known yet equally impressive neighbor to Tennessee Valley, with miles of hiking trails to explore.