Shafter Grade

From the small parking lot (time limit 1 hour) off Sir Francis Drake Blvd, pass by the Leo T. Cronin Fish Viewing Area where salmon sometimes spawn (December- February). Continue on the dirt road marked Shafter Grade. The road begins to climb steeply, winding through a lush and attractive second-growth redwood forest with abundant bay laurel. The uphill switchbacks are difficult and may feel like they go on forever, but at least the traffic noise is left behind. Near the top, the tree cover thins as you approach the top of the ridge, and the trail becomes exposed to the sky as soon as you reach the T intersection with Bolinas Ridge Trail. Note: bikes are allowed on the Shafter Grade Trail.