Fairfax is an enchanting mix of old and new Marin, with a small-town vibe, a lively music scene, and a spectacular setting at the base of Mt. Tam. Kick off your day in this remote hamlet with a 3.4-mile ramble along the Deer Park Trail; on cool, clear December days, this short loop offers wide and deep views of both the bay and Mt. Tam. This is a neighborhood jaunt, so you'll likely meet friendly locals en route. After you've worked up a sweat, kick back on the festively lit town streets; the intimate shops offer inventive gift ideas and the bars and restaurants feature live music seven nights a week. Three great places to get your holiday groove on are 19 Broadway, Peri's, and Cafe Amsterdam—all virtually on top of one another. Good tidings!
You can access Deer Park Trail at Deer Park near Fairfax's south end. Here's a map to the trail. To do the loop: Walk behind the school, turn left and walk through the playing field. Take the Deer Park Trail (not Deer Park Fire Road) up. At the top, take Worn Springs Fire Road to the right. Then turn right onto the Yolanda Trail and follow this to "Six Points." Make a hard right (almost behind you) on the Six Points Trail, which will take you to Oak Tree Junction. Go right again and continue on the Deer Park Fire Road back to the school.