Laurel Canyon and Miwok Cutoff Trail Junction

The Marincello Trail – Rodeo Valley Trail loop offers a quintessential Marin Headlands mountain biking adventure, winding through open meadows and rolling hills. As you climb the Marincello Trail, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas stretching across the North Bay, out to the Pacific Ocean, and even catching glimpses of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. The route combines well-maintained fire roads and gravel doubletrack, making for a varied and engaging ride through diverse landscapes.

This moderate 27.2-mile (43.9 km) loop involves a significant 2825 feet (861 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 38 minutes to complete. While the Marincello Trail features a continuous, gradual climb, the Rodeo Valley Trail offers a less technical, dirt and gravel road experience. Riders should be prepared for sustained effort and some sections that might challenge less experienced riders, potentially requiring dismounting.

Historically, the Marincello Trail was part of an ambitious, uncompleted development project, now transformed into a beloved trail system. The Rodeo Valley Trail also boasts a unique past as a ranch road, recently rehabilitated to improve access and protect sensitive wetland habitats. This loop is an excellent way to explore the natural beauty and historical layers of the Marin Headlands, especially during the cooler summer months.