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Stafford Lake Marin County Park AA-D; ** ; 1+ miles MORE INFO This park has no comfortable going for wheelchairs except along its
developed north side, but there is enjoyable birdwatching to be had
from there. Or, if you don't mind bumpy going, a roughly mowed disc
golf course wrapped around the west end of the lake results in a maze
of more or less useable tracks that facilitate birdwatching (or frisbee
golf!) along the west shore. Most of the paths and fields near the lake are marginally accessible when dry, though a very rough ride, and taxing to push over. Wherever the trails climb the surrounding hills there are steps and erosion breaks that are impassible. When we visited on the Sunday morning before Memorial Day we encountered only about half a dozen "golfing" parties, but there is evidence that the park sometimes is much busier. The marshy lake shore had lots of Canada geese with goslings, ducks and egrets. We also saw swallows, warblers, phoebes, and red tailed hawks among other birds. Details: Go north on Highway 101 past Novato, exit San Marin Drive/Atherton Avenue. West on San Marin Drive about 3 miles, right onto Novato Boulevard. About 2.5 miles to left turn into the park. Past the entrance kiosk ($5; $2 to walk in), turn right and continue to the end of the paved parking area, about 0.4 mile from the entrance. Park is open from 8 a.m. to dusk. It also has a playground, picnic areas, softball fields, volleyball nets, lots of manicured green lawn, and one inaccessible hiking trail.At least one van accessible parking spot and accessible restrooms and drinking fountains are on the developed east shore of the lake. Last visit Spring 2004 |
Caution:
although frisbees are less dangerous than golf balls, the ones used
on these courses are heavier than most, and would hurt if they hit you.