Phoenix Lake Loop via Gertrude-Ord Trail is a 2.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Ross, California that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This trail starts from the main parking lot at the end of Lagunitas Road. If going counter-clockwise, you start on a dirt road, going around the northern part of the lake. After about a mile, you can take a left onto a hiking-only trail that traverses the southern part of the lake. There are bridges to cut the left side a bit, if you're short on time. Along the southern part of the lake, there are some small inclines, and then a small switchback back down to a dirt road. The road then returns to where you started, and you can take one of three small trails down to your car. Great loop to do with your dog in the Mount Tamalpais Watershed, a lesser-known and lesser-visited park area nearby Mount Tamalpais State Park. You’ll have an easier time parking here than at other trailheads in the area but will still probably share the trail with a few other joggers making this a safe and convenient choice for a run or hike. Accessibility: The transition from the parking lot to the trailhead is estimated to be the steepest part (over 12%). Users have reported that only the first mile is wheelchair or stroller friendly but then the surface gets really uneven with rocks and roots past that. The trail itself is dirt and moderately steep with a max grade of 7%. Use caution during the rainy season...trail becomes muddy and slippery.
April 3, 2021This trail was “ok” compared to other trails in the area.  Very important note, there is limited parking at the trail entrance so go into this hike with the expectation that you’ll be waiting 10 to 20 minutes for a parking space.
March 24, 2021Very crazy trail
March 24, 2021We had bad experiences during this.
March 22, 2021Cool
March 13, 2021Beautiful trail!! We’re so lucky to live close enough to enjoy this treasure.
March 5, 2021Pretty and peaceful
February 20, 2021No bikes a on trail. :(
February 17, 2021February 14, 2021February 10, 2021February 7, 2021Went clockwise, first half wide trail in the sun, second half smaller trail in the woods. Loved it. Parking que to get a spot. So be careful to not miss the line.
February 7, 2021January 31, 2021Great for hikers, trail runners, and dogs
January 24, 2021Got off trail but good hike. Siri, Michaela, Emma and the dogs.
January 23, 2021Nice walk ending with a picnic!
January 20, 2021January 18, 2021Very nice and varied trail around the lake. Good shade and beautiful views. Very cool to see the elaborate historic log cabin. Kid-friendly and relaxing. On some stretches there were lots of bicycles th watch
January 17, 2021Nice trail for families
January 16, 2021January 13, 2021Great workout trail with scenic views on the top. Good for trail running.
January 10, 2021Solid.
December 28, 2020Busy but gorgeous trail.
December 26, 2020December 25, 2020December 24, 2020December 19, 2020November 22, 2020November 15, 2020November 15, 2020Lots of mountain bikes on about half of the loop. Not great for all dogs.
