Tall trees and wildflowers await off the beaten path.
A scenic drive on Lucas Valley Road west from U.S. 101 leads to the trailhead for Roy’s Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a secluded grove of tall redwoods. A 3-mile loop trail winds through meadows and past stands of pines, Douglas firs, and other trees. The groves of Muir Woods may be grander, but the preserve is far enough off the beaten path that even on a sunny spring or fall weekend (the best times to visit), you’ll have the trees nearly to yourself and perhaps a few quail. Renovations completed in late 2024 included trail upgrades and additions, making a visit all the more pleasant.
Spring Wildflowers Steal the Show
It’s all about the trees at Roy’s, except in springtime when white and purple irises and other wildflowers steal the show. The redwoods never disappoint, though, nor do the birds (hawks, woodpeckers) and wildlife large (deer) and small (fence lizards, spiders).
Roy’s Redwoods Tips
Most of the redwoods are at the entrance, where the accessible Boardwalk Trail juts into the trees, and signs along the Wilderness Way spur encourage visitors to “balance, scramble, and hop your way across this trail.” Follow the main Roy’s Redwoods Loop Trail signs for a 3-mile hike. For cardio, head up the David Hansen Trail, which loops back to the main trail. A walk up the steeper Dickson Ridge Fire Road yields views across much of the county.
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate.
Why locals love it: Redwood grove; solitude.
Reward yourself: After your hike, continue a half mile south on Nicasio Valley Road to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, where you can turn right (west) to check out tiny Lagunitas and its Arti Natural Organic Indian Cafe. Head left (east) to get to Fairfax and sip tea, kava, or beef broth at Wu Wei Tea Temple, which also serves light snacks.
Getting Here
Head west from U.S. 101 on Lucas Valley Road for 13.5 miles and south on Nicasio Valley Road just under 3.5 miles. You can also drive west from U.S. 101 on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to Nicasio Valley Road and turn north (right); the trailhead is on the road’s east side about half a mile. Parking is available on either side.
Info
Nicasio Valley Rd. near W. Nicasio Rd., Woodacre, CA 94973
Marin County Parks
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This story first appeared online in 2017; it was fact-checked and updated with new photos in 2025.