This 403 acre preserve was added to the MCOSD system in 2000. It incorporates the south-facing slope above the western end of the San Geronimo Valley. Together with the Gary Giacomini and Roy’s Redwoods Preserves, these lands constitute a major portion of the Lagunitas Creek watershed, so management practices in this area involve protecting and improving habitat for the endangered coho salmon.
At the western end of the preserve is a steep slope that includes significant areas of exposed serpentine. The unique soil derived from this mineral supports many rare plants, including serpentine reedgrass, Tiburon buckwheat, and Tamalpais lessingia. The French Ranch Fire Road allows access to the ridge overlooking the valley; it runs alongside a deep, forested canyon that is a haven for wildlife among the plentiful Douglas fir, redwood, oak, and tanoak trees. The fire road that runs along the ridge passes in and out of private property along the border of the preserve. Please be respectful of our neighbors if you use this road to access or exit this preserve.
Directions:
East: From Hwy 101 in Larkspur, take the Sir Francis Drake Blvd exit west past Fairfax and turn right at Nicasio Valley Rd. MCOSD gate is on the left.
West: From Hwy 101 in Larkspur, take the Sir Francis Drake Blvd exit and head west past Fairfax. Trailhead is on the right just past Lagunitas School Rd.
Visit walkbikemarin.org, transitandtrails.org, 511.org, or dial 511 to find out about alternative transportation and public transit options from your location.
All types of forest dwelling birds should be expected here, listen for the chatter of flocks of Pygmy Nuthatches, and the distinctive “squeak” of the Hairy Woodpecker as you ascend from the broadleaf forests on the lower slopes to the Douglas fir and Coast Redwood groves along the upper ridge.