Dewy at Dawn

Hike to Dawn Falls in Marin County

Redwoods, wooden bridges, a trailside stream, and lush greenery galore … Marin County’s Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve has lots of bragging rights, including a terrific 2.4-mile (round-trip) hike to a marquee grotto, Dawn Falls.

From the trailhead at Madrone Avenue, follow the Baltimore Canyon Dawn Falls Trail upstream alongside Larkspur Creek. Baltimore Canyon glistens after rains: a thriving mix of madrone, bay, big-leaf maple, and second-growth redwoods make the forest delightful when damp (just wear proper footwear). The trail meanders mostly flat, with gentle undulations. Cross over charming footbridges and hike among redwoods, including a particularly photo-worthy stand of these sky-reaching beauties. Towards the end of the hike the creek flow may taper a little, and you’ll come to a large rock where the trail veers left and upwards—for a short and steep section (mind your footwork if it’s raining; this can be slick).

Within minutes you’re at the main attraction, Dawn Falls, flowing 30 feet over a rock ledge surrounded by green ferns and mossy flanks. This waterfall has the most gusto after strong rains and loses luster by spring, making winter an ideal time to go. Dawn good hike!

NOTE: Due to recent storms it's best to check the website before going, to find out any updates on the trails at Baltimore Canyon. From SF, cross the Golden Gate and go north on 101 for 6 miles. Take Tamalpais Dr. exit and head west to Corte Madera Ave./Magnolia Ave. Turn right onto Magnolia and drive half a mile, then left on Madrone Ave. Keep left at the fork, following Madrone Ave. to its end. Trailhead is on the left side. Parking area is very small, with room for just a handful of cars. Because it’s a short hike, patience can pay off for a spot, or drive around the neighborhood to find nearby parking. Map and info available at the trailhead. Dog-friendly! 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View