Touring * Beginner * Historic *

From U.S. 101 heading north from San Francisco or south from San Rafael, exit at Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and get ready to enjoy 15-plus miles of Marin County before even reaching the trail. You'll pass through Samuel P. Taylor State Park. About 2 miles past the park boundary, you'll see Platform Bridge Road. Just after this intersection to the right, you'll cross a concrete bridge. Look on the other side of the bridge on the right side for an unmarked road. Turn right here, into the trees, and turn left to park on the old concrete roadbed shoulder. The bike path begins back just across the unmarked road before the old bridge. Look for the sign "Cross Marin Trail," and the paved trail that leads under the newer highway bridge.

Beginner Alternate: Enter the main entrance of Samuel P. Taylor State Park, about 3 miles east of the start described above. Fee required.

Looking for the ideal nature skate? The Sir Francis Drake Bikeway, ranks right up there with the best of them. What could be better than rolling on a clean, paved surface surrounded all the while by a wealth of natural beauty? The scenery is constantly changing along this three-mile trail, from the dappled shade of tall redwoods, to open grassland, to stands of eucalyptus trees. The only hill is a dip under the bridge as you enter the trail from the parking area, so even beginners can enjoy the privilege of skating this near-perfect trail. Built on an old rail line, the Sir Francis Drake Bikeway--which is also known as the Cross Marin Trail--follows alongside Lagunitas Creek back toward Jewell and then on into Samuel P. Taylor State Park. As for asphalt quality, it starts out fairly rough where the sealant has worn away and you'll probably encounter some debris under the trees. The surface improves as you get closer to the park. Rest rooms are available at the campgrounds, but not food, so pack a picnic. Make sure you stay to the right of the trail to make room for serious bicyclists heading to or from San Francisco.

Beginners may wish to reverse the trip to take advantage of the good pavement on the park end. Park just after the main Park entrance. Start by crossing the bridge over the creek - look for the Salmon Crossing signs! Bear right past the campground, onto the service road (past the Do Not Enter - Authorized Vehicles Only sign). The Service road eventually becomes the trail.

Officially, inline skaters are banned in the Park, but according to a Ranger we spoke with (while on skates!) the rule is not enforced and may be changed soon. To be safe, avoid hanging out by the park entrance.

This trail is close to the quaint towns of Olema and Point Reyes Station, and to the spectacular Point Reyes National Seashore - all well worth visiting.

• Samuel P. Taylor State Park -