Forest and woodland comprise over a third of Marin County and provide us with clean air, drinking water, recreational opportunities, habitat for diverse species, and more. They also have significant cultural value.   

Today, forests face threats such as diseases, introduced weeds, fire exclusion, human-caused climate change, and more.

These self-guided walks offer a glimpse into what forests need to be healthy, and how our One Tam partnership is working to address these threats on our Marin public lands, improve forest health, and evolve our understanding of caring for forests.  

1. What is a healthy forest? 

What is a healthy forest? Monica Stafford / Parks Conservancy

The trail around Lake Lagunitas, Mt. Tamalpais offers a glimpse into efforts to restore forests. Take a walk through the different habitats along this trail to learn what’s stressing our forests, and which tools are being used in this area to care for them. All while enjoying views of the lake and the wildlife that thrive here! 

Take a walk in the woods at Lake Lagunitas One Tam

This walk starts in the Lake Lagunitas parking lot and leads you counterclockwise around the lake. Get updated information about visiting the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed.

Length: 1.7 to 2.6-mile loop | Elevation: 394 ft 

Learn more: A (Virtual) Walk in the Woods

Download PDF:
Lake Lagunitas Self-guided Forest Walk  | published June 2023
Paseo Autoguiado Por El Bosque Del Lago Lagunitas (Spanish version) | published August 2023

2. Why do forests need beneficial fire?

Prescribed burn on Mt. Tamalpais Marin Water

A prescribed fire was conducted at Rock Spring in October 2023 as part of Marin Water’s approach to a more resilient, ecologically healthy watershed. This walk will provide a closer look at the role of fire on the landscape. You’ll see the burn area, learn about beneficial fire and other tools of forest stewardship, and get some great views in.  

Learn about beneficial fire at Rock Spring One Tam

This walk starts at the Rock Spring trailhead and leads you in a clockwise loop over to the Mountain Theater and back. Get updated information about visiting the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed. 

Length: 1 mile loop | Elevation: 183 ft 

Download PDF:
Rock Spring Self-guided Forest Walk  | published July 2024
Paseo Autoguiado Por El Bosque Del Rock Spring (Spanish version) | published August 2024

Self-Guided Forest Walks Currently Available For the Following Locations:

Note: Some parks in Marin County require an entry fee. Use your Marin County Free Library card to check out a Park Pass and visit for free!

Getting to Mt. Tamalpais One Tam