Mount Tamalpais (or Mount Tam as the locals call it ) is the North Bay’s favorite outdoor playground and the most dominant mountain in the region. Most every Marinite has his or her secret trail and scenic overlook, as well as an opinion on the raging debate between mountain bikers and hikers (a touchy subject, being that mountain biking was invented here). The main trails -- mostly fire roads -- see a lot of foot and bicycle traffic on weekends, particularly on clear, sunny days when you can see a hundred miles in all directions, from the foothills of the Sierra to the western horizon. It’s a great place to escape from the city for a leisurely hike and to soak in breathtaking views of the bay.

To get to Mount Tamalpais by car, cross the Golden Gate Bridge heading north on Highway 101, and take the Stinson Beach/Highway 1 exit. Follow the signs up the shoreline highway for about 2 1/2 miles, turn onto Pantoll Road, and continue for about a mile to Ridgecrest Boulevard. Ridgecrest winds to a parking lot below East Peak. From there, it’s a 15-minute hike up to the top. You’ll find a visitor center with a small museum, video, fun diorama, and store, as well as enthusiastic and informative “Mount Tam Hosts,” who are more than happy to help you plan a hike, identify plants, and generally share their love of the mountain. Visitor center admission is free; it’s open Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm (standard time), and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5:30pm (daylight saving time). Park hours are 7am to 6pm daily in winter; 7am to 9pm for about 1 month during the height of summer. Two-hour, 2-mile moonlight hikes, among many others, are offered -- call 415/388-2070 or log onto www.mttam.net for more information.