Take Golden Gate 70/80 from Civic Center in San Francisco to Marin City transfer station. A short walk through a residential neighborhood will lead you to the Pacheco Fire Road trail head. The trail begins under the cover of gorgeous eucalyptus trees, but quickly becomes exposed to the sun as you hike along a ridge trail. On a sunny day, make sure to wear sunscreen, as there is little shade.
Take the fire road to Alta Trail, followed by a hard right onto Oakwood Valley Trail. After 1.2 miles you’ll cross Tennessee Valley Road and connect to the Rhubarb Trail and soon enter Tennessee Valley, a popular driving destination. Here you will find shaded picnic tables, pit toilets, but no water. This is a great spot to stop for a snack before continuing.
Hike past Miwok Stables to begin ascending on the Old Springs Trail, and an eventual right onto the Miwok Trail. On this portion of the hike there will be ocean and San Francisco views, but only on a clear day.
Descend into Rodeo Valley and end at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center. Here there are bathrooms, and information on the surrounding area. From here you can pick up the Muni 76 bus line,which will take you back into the city.
