Estero Americano Coast Preserve came onto my radar with the publication of a recent glowing article in the SF Chronicle. The point of the article was to tell folks about the parking issues arising as a result of this newly opened, pristine, 547 acres of open space but I think what it wound up doing was getting it on the radar of everyone who hadn't already learned of it. Either way, wow.
The preserve sits on the border between Sonoma and Marin counties overlooking the vast coastline (which includes the Greater Farallones Marine Sanctuary) in one direction and, when you hike the Ridge Trail, the Estero Americano River and tons of preserved, glorious land. I've spent considerable time hiking in the UK and as I hiked in this preserve I couldn't help but wonder why I'd gone so far. Surely what we have in our own backyard is equally stunning.
The preserve contains two hiking trails, Ridge and Bluff and if you hike both entirely (I did) you'll have walked 5 miles. Part of the walk along the Bluff Trail takes you down to the ocean at the point where the river meets it (sometimes). There's a picnic table and a port-a-potty down there.
Parking has now been restricted on one side of the street but is allowed on the side of the street bordering the preserve. On a weekday, free street parking at the entrance to the trailhead was easy; weekends sound like a different story entirely.
Leashed dogs are allowed and poop bags are provided at the entrance to the trailhead. Right now this preserve is immaculate and I hope it stays that way. Estero Americano Coast Preserve is a beautiful addition to a breathtaking, gorgeous space. read more