MT. TAM: LOOP NORTHSIDE TRAIL TO MIDDLE PEAK AND ROCK SPRING TRAIL

Leader: Ken Robin

Leader Email:  k.robin@sbcglobal.net

Leader Phone:  510-926-9220

Meeting Date and Day: Saturday, October 24, 2020

Meeting Time: 10:00 AM

Departure Time: 10:15 AM

Meeting Place: Rock Spring Parking Lot, Ridgecrest Blvd and Pantoll Road.  G-Maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/paLpmanUu9jJAaKP7

Rating:  Level 3

Mileage: 8 miles

Elevation Gain: 800 ft

Description:  From Rock Spring we’ll take a combination of official and unofficial trails (but not difficult) to the Northside Trail, which is flat or undulating, with great views to the north.  The Lagunitas trail toward the Middle Peak is the only difficult part, a nasty and steep ascent, but only 0.2 miles.  We’ll take our time.  Then a little-used unofficial trail, mostly level, to the Lakeview Trail, and Ridgecrest  Blvd.  The rest of the loop is on the south side, more spectacular views, down the Miller trail.   A little bit of fire road, then the scenic and slightly uphill Rock Spring trail back to the cars.

Marin County has relaxed its group-size restrictions.  But all of the usual directives, masks, distancing..... MUST be followed.  These initial hikes will be limited to 12 people (sorry!)
Below are the regulations:

• We need to stay at least 6' apart at all times;
• You need to keep whatever type of mask you prefer around your neck at all times to be prepared to put it in place at a moment's notice when encountering others.  Some prefer to wear a mask at all times - even better!  The easiest solution some of us have found is to wear a bandana around your neck, shifting it up over your nose and mouth when passing or speaking with others;
• Ideally, unless you're members of one household, there should be one passenger in the back right seat only.  Drivers and passengers can decide what they feel comfortable with.  PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU NEED A RIDE AND/OR CAN TAKE A PASSENGER, AND WHAT YOUR COMFORT LEVEL IS REGARDING PASSENGERS.

Bring/Wear:  Lots of water!!, sturdy hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, sunscreen and your MASK.

Rain Policy: Hike will take place but may be altered if either smoke or heat is extreme.

Driving Distance: 43 miles total there and back

Car Pool Fees Including Bridge Toll: $7