Tamarancho Trail System
A Trail Network Rooted in Marin’s Mountain Biking History
The Tamarancho Trail System sits at the heart of Marin’s mountain biking story. Long before it became a destination for riders from across the Bay Area and beyond, the land was (and still is) owned by the Marin Council of the Boy Scouts of America. In the 1990s, as mountain biking was gaining momentum in Marin, access to trails across the county remained limited. Local riders and land managers needed a new model: one where sustainable trail building, managed use, and community stewardship could coexist.
That collaboration began with the Boy Scouts, local advocates, and dedicated volunteers who saw the potential for something special. Together, they established the Tamarancho Loop and its connecting trails as some of the first purpose-built, bike-legal singletrack in Marin County. From those early work days to today’s ongoing maintenance, Tamarancho has become a symbol of what’s possible when the riding community and landowners work hand-in-hand.
A Trail System Built for Sustainability
Unlike many legacy trails in Marin, Tamarancho was designed with modern, environmentally responsible trail-building techniques. Its thoughtful alignment, proper drainage, and narrow, flowing tread have helped minimize erosion and preserve the surrounding landscape. Over the years, the community has continued to upgrade and refine the network, ensuring it remains sustainable despite heavy use and changing weather patterns.
The trail system’s carefully crafted climbs, switchbacks, and technical sections—including famous features like the “Flow Trail”—make Tamarancho both challenging and inviting for riders of different skill levels. The hand-built rock work, wooden features, and thoughtful design elements reflect thousands of volunteer hours and a deep commitment to stewardship.
Access, Membership, and Community Support
Access to Tamarancho is granted through a permit system managed by the Boy Scouts, with proceeds helping maintain the property, support youth programs, and fund ongoing trail improvements. This model empowers riders to directly support the trails they love—something rare in Marin’s complex land-use landscape.
Marin Trail Stewards partners closely with the Boy Scouts and the broader trail community to maintain, enhance, and advocate for Tamarancho. Through volunteer trail days, fundraising, and year-round maintenance support, MTS helps ensure the trail system remains safe, sustainable, and fun for everyone who rides it.
A Hub for Riders and a Model for California Trails
Today, Tamarancho stands as one of Marin's most beloved legal singletrack networks. It’s a rite of passage for young riders, a training ground for NICA student-athletes, and a destination loop for everyday riders seeking flow, challenge, and connection to the mountain biking community.
More than just a trail system, Tamarancho represents a long-standing partnership built on respect, stewardship, and a shared love of trails. It has become a blueprint for what collaborative trail building can look like—not only in Marin, but across the state.
Looking Ahead
As weather patterns shift and ridership continues to grow, maintaining Tamarancho will require ongoing care and investment. Marin Trail Stewards remains committed to supporting this iconic trail system through maintenance, community education, and continued advocacy for equitable, sustainable access to trails in Marin County.
Together, we can ensure Tamarancho remains a thriving, high-quality riding experience for generations to come.