Go, Tell It on the Mountain

Want to be king of the mountain? Head to King Mountain, the 108-acre open space preserve just above Larkspur in Marin. Despite its lofty name, hiking King Mountain proves that simple can be beautiful. This 3-mile (round-trip) lollipop loop hike makes a nice afternoon walk in the woods, with peek-a-boo views of San Pablo Bay and Mount Tam.

You’ll start the hike in residential streets and rise quietly on a fire road, opening to impressive views of downtown Larkspur and bigger views of Marin—all the way to the Richmond Bridge.

After 0.75 mile you’ll get to the turn for King Mountain Loop Trail, a singletrack route threading a 1.8-mile loop around the crown of the mountain, most of which is cozily enclosed by an oak and bay woodland fragrant with bay leaves. You’ll also get some vista payoff with a gorgeous up-close look at Mount Tam’s East Peak and another bonus: redwoods. Who’s king of King Mountain now?

BONUS PIZZA: Post-hike, grab a bite in downtown Larkspur at Pizzeria Picco, a hot little spot serving up organic salads and Neapolitan style pizzas cooked in a wood burning oven. The wine list impresses, too!

There's limited parking at the trailhead. Here's a map. Dog-friendly! Pizzeria Picco is located at 316 Magnolia Ave., Larkspur. The path is dog-friendly.