Historic Dixie Schoolhouse – Big Rock Ridge loop from Novato Downtown

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Historic Dixie Schoolhouse – Big Rock Ridge loop from Novato Downtown

Hard

4.8

(3063)

19,097

riders

Historic Dixie Schoolhouse – Big Rock Ridge loop from Novato Downtown

04:22

46.2km

1,190m

Cycling

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 24, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Loma Alta Open Space Preserve

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

10.2 km

Chicken Shack Fire Road Trailhead 🐓🚴‍♂️

Highlight • Trail

10.3 km

Terra Linda to Ignacio Bike Path

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Paved smooth bike path along the Hwy 101 right-of-way. Fastest and safe North-South bikeway, popular with bike commuters from Marin, even to San Francisco.

Tip by

13.0 km

Historic Dixie Schoolhouse

Highlight • Historical Site

The Dixie Schoohouse dates back to 1864, it has been in continuous use since its construction, making it the oldest in Marin County. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.

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26.4 km

The Big Rock - Skywalker Ranch

Highlight • Natural Monument

As the name implies, a big bolder marks the crest of Lucas Valley Road above Skywalker Ranch, the elusive retreat and production studios of George Lucas and his various film projects.

Tip by

26.4 km

Big Rock -- Lucas Valley Rd Summit

Highlight • Natural Monument

Be careful on the descent, the pavement can get slippery. This is a great trail access spot for MTB and hiking.

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31.2 km

Lucas Valley Open Space Preserve

Highlight • Natural

The wide firm gravel fire roads are bikeable and worth it for the fantastic views, though getting up on the ridge is a bit steep. No access via Skywalker Ranch road.

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32.2 km

Big Rock Ridge

Highlight • Summit

Highest point on Big Rock Ridge Fire Road with panoramic views of the Bay, Marin county, and even across the East bay to Mt. Diablo and south to San Francisco. …

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45.7 km

Old Town Novato

Highlight • Settlement

The downtown area of Novato stretches along Grant Avenue, with the Old town from the Train Station west to Redwood Boulevard, and more recent development a couple blocks further west.

Tip by

46.2 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types