Mill Valley has several large and smaller city parks all around the city. Some are open areas for sports, while others are nested in the beautiful Redwood forest along the creek. The Steps, Lanes and Paths network takes hikers along residential streets that crisscross the hills. The paths are clearly marked with blue stencils on the roadway as potential emergency escape routes from the fire-prone hills. See the full list and descriptions here.
Mill Valley’s recreational parks are equipped with playgrounds and other areas specifically designed for playing various sports. Dogs must be leashed in all parks except Dog Run, which is a dog park.
Bayfront Park is located on Richardson Bay and Sycamore. The park has a trail for hiking and running, a soccer field, benches, picnic tables and grassy area. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Blithedale Park is where Ralston Avenue, Manzanita Place and Elaine Avenue meet. The hiking trail takes you to the creek. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Ernest Bloch Memorial Park is behind City Hall in the southwest corner of the parking lot. Park amenities include benches and bathrooms in City Hall. You can learn more about the history of the park from a plaque. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Boyle Park is located on East Blithedale Boulevard and East Drive. There are tennis courts (passes are required), play structure, baseball diamond, picnic tables, benches and an open grassy area. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Cascade Park is situated at Lovell Avenue and Cascade Drive. There is a hiking trail, creek access and benches. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
The Community Garden at 180 Camino Alto is a charming garden with 35 plots. Dogs are not permitted.
Friends Fields is also at 180 Camino Alto. There is a soccer field, baseball diamond, open grass area, benches and bathrooms. Dogs are not allowed in the park.
Dogs can run free in Dog Run located at Richardson Bay between Sycamore Avenue, Camino Alto and Miller Avenue. There benches, picnic tables for dog owners, and a grassy area for dogs.
Freeman Park at Nelson Avenue and Ryan Avenue has a half court for basketball games. There are benches, picnic tables, play structure, grills, and a grass area. Dogs are permitted but need to be on leash.
The Mill Valley Golf Course is a 9-hole golf course at Buena Vista Avenue and Bay Tree Lane. Dogs are not permitted.
Hauke Park is at Roque Morales Drive and Hamilton Drive. There are benches, picnic tables, play structure, baseball diamond and a grass area. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Lytton Square is at Throckmorton between Miller and Corte Madera Avenues. This small park has a plaque with historical information. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Miller Grove is between Corte Madera and West Blithedale Avenues. There are benches and access to the creek. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Old Mill Park a favorite of residents is at Throckmorton Avenue and Old Mill Street. . There are benches, picnic tables, play structure, barbeque grills, picnic areas, and amphitheatre. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Park Terrace has creek access. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
The Plaza between Throckmorton, Miller, and Sunnyside Avenues has benches, picnic tables, and a café. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Scott Highlands Park is at Vista Linda Drive and Sheridan Court. There are benches, picnic tables, and a playground. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Skate Park is at the end of Sycamore Avenue. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Sycamore Park is at Sycamore and Nelson Avenues. There are benches, picnic tables, a grassy area and a playground. Dogs are permitted, but need to be on leash.
Around Mill Valley
Mill Valley residents are also fortunate to have access to some of the most beautiful state parks and natural reserves in the country. The closest state park is the imposing and richly forested Mount Tamalpais State Park. There are several parks within a half-hour drive that are a must-see if you are a parks fan: China Camp, Angel Island, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Muir Woods National Monument, Muir Beach, and Stinson Beach. For those who want a truly beautiful coastline and are up for a longer drive, Point Reyes National Seashore is a little more than an hour’s drive.