Here are some important reminders, especially for people new to Marin's trails.
Disclaimer - Don't Rely on Our Descriptions
When it comes to trail safety, there are four reasons why you can't rely on our books or our web information. First, trails change. Hillsides erode, trees fall down and signs change. In winter, some trails are impassable. Second, the map is not the trail. No matter how descriptive our map or text is, it can't describe every feature, root, rock or rut. Third, there are errors in our descriptions. Fourth, our descriptions may not apply to you. When we say a hike is easy or moderate, it may be too difficult. Now for the fine print.
We can not accept responsibility for trail conditions or for trail information. This is our disclaimer that we do not accept liability or legal responsibility for any injuries, damage, or losses allegedly caused by using our web pages or books. For the best information, check the local ranger stations.
What to Take on the Trail
Experience hikers wear good hiking boots and will carry a daypack with most of the following items, depending on the hike: adequate fluids, first aid kit, light jacket, extra food, poncho in winter, suncreen in summer, knife, hat, book or map, flashlight, binoculars, compass and whistle.
When bike riding in the more remote areas of Marin, such as Mt. Tamalpais or Point Reyes, here is a check list of things to take: fluids, windbreaker, book or map, extra food, knife, flashlight, compass, first aid kit, helmet, suncreen, money, tools: spoke wrench, chain tool, screw driver, allen wrenches, box/open end wrenches, pliers, swiss army knife, patch kit, spare tube, pump, duct tape and whistle.
Fluids
Fluids are essential when hiking, biking or staying outdoors. Often, people go hiking, biking or go to the beach and wind up the day with a mild headache. Usually, this is attributed to too much exposure, too much sun or too much wind. Many times, the problem is too little fluids. Vigourous outdoor activity requires a minimum of 1/2 quart of fluid per hour, or more, depending on the temperature and elevation change. Alcohol does not count. It is a diuretic, which means that it removes fluid by osmosis in the stomach. It is always a good idea to carry water and to drink it regularly whether you feel thirsty or not. Do not drink water from streams or lakes. It may contain giardia, which can cause severe stomach problems until treated.
Poison Oak
Poison oak for some is a minor irritation, for most, a major irritation and for a few, a medical emergency. The best advice is to learn to identify the plant by its leaves and avoid touching it. An old saying is, "Leaves of three, leave it be." In fall, poison oak leaves turn crimson red and drop off. In winter, the bare branches are difficult to identify, yet still retain their toxic oils. It helps to stay on designated trails and to watch out for branches that lean out onto the trail. If you are allergic to it, carry small individually packaged Handi-wipes and wash an affected area within ten minutes.
Ticks and Lyme Disease
Ticks are common in Marin and are especially noticeable during the rainy season from November to May. Recent studies have shown that 1-2% of the western black-legged ticks in Marin County carry Lyme disease. The best way to avoid ticks is to stay on trails. It also helps to wear light clothing so that ticks can be seen. Be sure to brush yourself frequently, especially after passing through tall grass or shrubs. After being outdoors, check yourself completely. Ticks anesthetize the skin before biting so you'll seldom feel the original bite. Early removal of a tick reduces the risk of infection. Use tweezers. Grab the tick mouth parts as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out. Save the tick for analysis if necessary. Wash hands and clean the bite with an antiseptic. The first recognizable symptom of Lyme disease is usually a ring-like rash that occurs 3-30 days after the tick bite. One or more rashes may occur and not always at the bite. However, a rash only appears 60-80% of the time. Other symptoms may include flu-like fever, chills, fatigue, headaches and a stiff neck. Since early diagnosis of Lyme disease is crucial, see a doctor if you think you have it.
Rattlesnakes and Mountain Lions
Both are present and dangerous, but rarely seen in Marin. Rattlesnakes will often sun themselves in open areas in the spring. The best way to avoid rattlesnakes is to stay on the trail and avoid climbing over loose rocky areas. If you do see a mountain lion, don't run. Stand your ground, keep eye contact, make yourself look bigger, perhaps using your jacket or daypack. Then, slowly back away. If attacked, fight back.
Mosquitos
Mosquitos are usually a minor problem in Marin. They are found in sections of shady forests or marshy areas, especially on the north slopes of Mt. Tam during the summer months. You can probably avoid using insect repellant by backtracking out of mosquito areas or moving through these areas quickly.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle are common-looking 3-5 foot plants usually found in shady, moist areas. Even if you barely brush the leaves or stem, it will produce a mild sting for 3-24 hours. The velvet-looking leaves have tiny hairs that produce the sting.
Parking
When parking on narrow streets, please respect local neighborhoods. Most cities require a 12' pavement clearance for emergency vehicles. Also, remember to lock your car and don't leave valuables in view. Vandalism and theft at trailheads in Marin is not common, but it does happen. You might check with park rangers about problem areas.
Wildfires
Wildfires are part of the natural history of Marin. These fires can be deadly. During periods of extreme fire danger, called Red Flag Days, public lands may be closed. In late summer and fall, avoid hilltops and ridges during hot, dry or windy days.
Getting Lost
It is surprisingly easy to get lost, especially when hiking. There are four major reasons for this: there are lots of deer trails, a few trails are overgrown, some junctions lack signs, and people take short-cuts. The easiest places to get lost are around Mt. Tam, especially the north side. If you are in a new area, our advice is to follow the hike carefully and note each junction on the map. You might even want to use a stopwatch and reset it at each junction. That way, you can tell roughly how far you've come since the last junction. Above all, stay on trails and don't take shortcuts.