9:00 A.M. Hike to the top of Mt. Burdell/Meet at 475 San Andreas Drive, Novato

Join us for a difficult three to three and a half hour, 5.5+ miles loop hike to the top of MT. Burdell. We will begin the hike at the San Andreas Drive Trailhead. Initially, we will have a gradual climb as we make a left on the San Andreas Fire Road (FR). We'll take a shortcut, (unnamed) climbing trail, that will put us on the Middle Burdell FR. just below Hidden Lake. We will take the Old Quarry Trail to the top. This is a .75 mile in length, single track, steep, rocky, climb. At the top we will head to the right to see spectacular views. We will stop for a snack at the bench where the Olompali Park Trail descent begins.

We will take a vote as to which trail the group wishes to descend: on the Cobblestone FR, or venture north to the Eagle Rim Trail. Each choice has its share of pluses and minuses. Both have sections that are rocky, and will need to be traversed slowly and sure-footedly. Both trails join the Middle Burdell FR, where we'll take a right to lead us back to the San Andreas FR which will lead us back to our vehicles.

Hiking poles are highly recommended for this hike, along with layered clothing, a snack, water, a cap or sunhat, as 70% of the hike is exposed. We will hike at a moderate pace, and will definitely adjust as the climb gets more difficult. This is a beautiful hike with sweeping views from the top with an array of seasonal wildflowers.

We will begin promptly at 9:00. Please let us know if you can join us.

Directions: From HWY 101, take the San Marin Drive, Atherton Road exit.
Head west on San Marin Drive for 2.4 miles. Take a right at San Andreas Drive. Street parking is on the right hand side near the trailhead.