Alpine Dam Sisters

A classic loop that captures the best of Marin's vistas.

About This Route

The Alpine Dam Sisters loop is one of those routes that locals never tire of. In just 33 miles, it packs in more scenic variety than most rides twice its length, taking you past Alpine Lake, through towering redwoods, and along ridgeline roads with panoramic views of the Pacific.

The route's centerpiece is the Seven Sisters - a series of short, punchy climbs and descents along Bolinas-Fairfax Road that test your ability to accelerate and recover repeatedly. Each sister is just long enough to hurt, and just short enough that you can convince yourself the next one will be easier (it won't).

Alpine Dam itself is a beautiful mid-ride waypoint, with the shimmering lake surrounded by dense forest. The climb up from the dam is steady and scenic, winding through some of the most pristine woodland in Marin. On the descent, the views open up dramatically, revealing the headlands and ocean beyond.

This is also a popular training loop for local racers, as the combination of steady climbing and repeated hard efforts mirrors the demands of competitive cycling.

Tips

• The Seven Sisters are best ridden hard - treat each one as a short interval effort
• The road surface around Alpine Dam can be rough in spots - keep your eyes on the road
• This loop works well in either direction, but clockwise puts the Sisters later when you're more warmed up
• The elevation gain is deceptive for 33 miles - don't underestimate this ride
• A favorite loop for weekday training rides when you want quality climbing in limited time