A pretty drive through the Sonoma foothills leads to Bodega Bay and then beyond to Bodega Head. This is a spectacular perch that towers over the coast and sea. Bodega Head is the prominent rocky point that protects Bodega Harbor from the west. This large point has a rugged coastline that is exposed to strong waves and cool damp weather. There is a small sandy beach below the parking lot. A steep path north of the picnic area leads to the beach where you can feel the raw energy of the ocean. The real draw to Bodega Head is the network of hiking trails that loop around the headlands.
Fog rolls in over Lucas Valley at sunset. Also the location of George Lucas' Skywalker Ranch, this 1271 acre preserve includes much of the south-facing slope rising above what is now known as Lucas Valley (historically called Gallinas Valley). The highlight of this preserve is the Big Rock Trail, a multiple-use trail that begins at the crest of Lucas Valley Road (at the ”Big Rock”), and eases its way up to the Big Rock Ridge Fire Road. This trail, opened in 2003, is part of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. It connects with the Loma Alta Trail that ascends the southern half of the valley. Portions of both the Big Rock Trail and the fire road along the ridge are trail easements that cross private property, so pay heed to all trail signs posted along the way. The summit of Big Rock Ridge at 1895 feet is the second highest point in Marin County (after Mount Tamalpais), and views from the top are spectacular.
