Perched on the Tiburon Peninsula in Marin County, Ring Mountain is one of the Bay Area's best-kept secrets. This 377-acre preserve rises just 602 feet above sea level, but its open grasslands and rocky outcrops offer panoramic views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate, and the surrounding bay. Even better: it hosts endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
While crowds descend on nearby Mount Tamalpais, Ring Mountain remains wonderfully quiet. The short trails make it perfect for a morning or evening outing, yet the views rival far more famous destinations.
The Trail
Basic Stats
- Distance: 3.0 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Time: 1.5-2 hours
The main loop circles the preserve, climbing from the trailhead on Paradise Drive through grassland and serpentine outcrops to the 602-foot summit. The trail is well-marked and gentle enough for most fitness levels, though it gets steep in places.
Multiple trail junctions allow for shorter or longer variations. The Phyllis Ellman Trail is the primary route to the summit.
The Views
Ring Mountain's modest height belies its spectacular views. From the summit and various points along the trail, you can see:
- San Francisco: The city skyline across the bay
- Golden Gate Bridge: Iconic views to the west
- Angel Island: The state park island just offshore
- Richmond-San Rafael Bridge: Spanning the northern bay
- Mount Tamalpais: Rising to the northwest
- Mount Diablo: Visible to the east on clear days
Sunset and sunrise are particularly spectacular, with the city lights coming on as darkness falls.
The Wildflowers
Ring Mountain's serpentine soil creates unique conditions that support plants found nowhere else:
Endemic Species
- Tiburon Mariposa Lily: A beautiful flower that exists only on Ring Mountain
- Other rarities: Several other species are endemic or extremely rare
The wildflower season (March-May) transforms the hillsides with color. Please stay on trails—these plants are fragile and protected.
Native Americans
The preserve also contains Native American petroglyphs—rock carvings left by the Coast Miwok who lived here for thousands of years. Respect these cultural artifacts and don't touch them.
When to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Peak wildflowers; green hills; best season
- Summer: Dry and golden; foggy mornings common
- Fall: Pleasant temperatures; brown grass
- Winter: Green hills return; can be muddy after rain
Time of Day
- Morning: Good light; often clear before fog rolls in
- Sunset: Spectacular with city lights coming on
- Midday: Can be hot in summer; less atmospheric lighting
Practical Information
Getting There
The main trailhead is on Paradise Drive in Corte Madera, at the base of the preserve. From Highway 101, take the Paradise Drive exit and follow signs.
Parking
Small lot at the trailhead holds about 10 cars. Street parking available on Paradise Drive if lot is full.
Fees
Free—managed by Marin County Parks.
Rules
- Dogs allowed on leash
- Stay on trails to protect rare plants
- No bikes on trails
- Pack out all trash
Nearby Options
Combine Ring Mountain with:
- Angel Island (ferry from Tiburon)
- Tiburon waterfront (shops, restaurants)
- Mount Tamalpais (larger mountain nearby)
Quick Reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 3.0 miles loop |
| Elevation Gain | 600 feet |
| Summit Elevation | 602 feet |
| Difficulty | Easy-Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring (wildflowers) |
Ring Mountain proves that great hiking doesn't require hours of driving or thousands of feet of climbing. This compact preserve delivers Bay Area views, ecological uniqueness, and blessed quiet—all within a short drive of San Francisco. It's the perfect escape when you want nature without the commitment of a full-day adventure.
