Novato, California

Looking for the best running in Novato? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Novato. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Novato

  • Berkeley, California

    Stonewall Panoramic Trail

    4.5
    1.44 mi / 663 ft gain
    From the trailhead at Stonewall Road, the 1.5-mile trail makes for an excellent before or after-work run. But the steep hills and loose ground aren’t for those looking to find an easy nature walk. The incline starts well before the Stonewall-Panoramic trailhead, so you won’t even have time to w...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Twin Peaks and Mt. Sutro Loop

    4.2
    5.26 mi / 1145 ft gain
    Are you thinking, hit up two of the bigger peaks in SF, what a great idea? Well, you thought right! The first mile and a half is uphill as you charge to the top of Twin Peaks. This 6% grade leads to a 460 ft elevation gain. The good news is, if it's not foggy, the views of the bay are stunning, e...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Hidden Garden Steps

    4.3
    0.1 mi / 39 ft gain
    These tiles steps are ironically iconic, as they are called the "Hidden" Garden Steps.  They are one of 3 tiled staircases that San Francisco is famous for. The others are the 16th Ave Tiled Steps and the Lincoln Park Steps. Tip: When calling an uber, try to get dropped off at the top of the ste...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Fairy Gates Trail

    5.0
    0.89 mi / 328 ft gain
    Fairy Gates Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you through a nice forest located near San Francisco, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    16th Avenue Tiled Steps

    4.6
    0.09 mi / 79 ft gain
    The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps also known as the Moraga steps are an impressive community achievement, and an equally killer workout. Take an easy lap up the stairs to check out the amazing art, take in the views from the top, then get down to business. You'll be glad you made the trek over to this ...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Grand View Park ("Turtle Hill")

    5.0
    0.21 mi / 7 ft gain
    A recipe for happiness in the "cool grey city of love." To the seasoned San Franciscan there is no finer view in the Bay Area than that from San Francisco's front porch, Turtle Hill or "Grand View Park". If the North American continent / plate is a ship, then Grand View Park is the prow giving e...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Twin Peaks Loop

    4.0
    2.04 mi / 259 ft gain
    There are a ton of ways to get here (and obviously that can affect the total distance) but this is starting from Clarendon. Follow along up Twin Peaks boulevard where you'll see the peaks upon your approach. Keep an eye out for traffic as there may be visitors driving toward and away from Twin Pe...
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  • Martinez, California

    Muir Farm And Mount Wanda: John Muir Nature Trail

    2.59 mi / 512 ft gain
    Muir Farm And Mount Wanda: John Muir Nature Trail is a loop trail located near Martinez, California.
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  • Sebastopol, California

    Ragle Ranch Extended Loop

    5.0
    1.86 mi / 82 ft gain
    Ragle Ranch Extended Loop is a loop trail where you may see local wildlife located near Sebastopol, California
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  • San Francisco, California

    Glen Canyon Park Trail

    5.0
    1.76 mi / 394 ft gain
    Glen Canyon Park Trail is a loop most commonly used for running or hiking in the southwestern side of San Francisco, California. Parking for the loop is street parking, so be sure to take any valuables out of the car with you.  Note: There are restrooms available at the Glen Canyon Recreation Ce...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Mount Davidson

    4.5
    1.03 mi / 299 ft gain
    Mount Davidson Park is located in the southwestern part of the city nestled between Diamond Heights and Portola Dr. The climb isn't too difficult, but to reach the top of the 928ft summit, you should wear close-toed shoes and be ready for some loose gravel or mud if it's been raining. The hike is...
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  • Santa Rosa, California

    Gunsight Rock via Hood Mountain Trail

    5.0
    7.91 mi / 2372 ft gain
    Hike to Gunsight Rock through Hood Mountain Regional Park to get a view overlooking Sonoma and Napa Valley. In order to get to the trailhead take Highway 12 to Los Alamos Rd, the road will then turn into Timberline Dr, this will take you to the trailhead. There is a parking fee of $8. From the p...
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  • Santa Rosa, California

    Santa Rosa Creek Trail: Willowside Road to Fulton Road

    4.2 mi / 46 ft gain
    Santa Rosa Creek Trail: Willowside Road to Fulton Road is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Sebastopol, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    Fort Funston Trail

    4.7
    1.81 mi / 253 ft gain
    Fort Funston is an SF gem I discovered when looking for a dog friendly hike near the city. Located west of Lake Merced, you'll find a gorgeous Northern California beach oasis where you and your dog can run wild and free :). Parking is located at the top of the park where you'll descend a steep se...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Lake Merced Loop

    4.7
    4.53 mi / 180 ft gain
    Lake Merced Loop is a loop trail in the southwestern part of San Francisco. This trail is used for running and walking. You'll see plenty of people getting exercise or taking their dog for a stroll. There are also benches and tables around the loop. The lake itself is fresh water and is used for...
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