The Setting · October 8, 2026

The Mt. Burdell Lifestyle: Open Space at Your Back Door

By Peter Schardt · Real Estate Agent & Advisor

Terraced garden at 10 Santa Yorma Ct with views toward Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve
From the Garden · Mt. Burdell Views

Few homes in Novato can say the trail system starts at the rear gate. At 10 Santa Yorma Ct, a secured rear access point connects the backyard directly to the Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve, which means hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding can become part of everyday life rather than a weekend plan.

Marin County’s largest preserve

Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve is managed by Marin County Parks and covers roughly 1,627 acres, making it the county’s largest open space preserve. It rises to a 1,558-foot summit with panoramic views across Big Rock Ridge, Mount Tamalpais, San Francisco Bay and Mount Diablo. From the backyard of 10 Santa Yorma Ct, the views sweep over Big Rock Ridge and West Novato.

Trails for every pace

The preserve’s multi-use trail system welcomes hikers, cyclists and equestrians on routes such as Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry, Michako, Cobblestone Fire Road and the newer Eagle Rim Trail. The popular Deer Camp Fire Road, Old Quarry and Michako loop runs about 5.3 miles, with elevation gains that reward a steady climb.

The Bay Area Ridge Trail runs through the preserve. The section from O’Hair Park to Olompali State Park climbs about 4.2 miles one-way for hikers and equestrians, using Cobblestone Fire Road to reach the summit before returning toward Novato Boulevard.

Aerial view of the property's rear yard, patio and terraced gardens leading to open space
The Rear Yard · From Above

A backyard that keeps going

The property itself is designed around the setting. A custom System Pavers patio with a built-in fire pit, stamped concrete walkways, lawn and terraced gardens step up toward the open space. The terraced garden levels, wood decking and retaining walls make the transition from house to hillside feel intentional, and the rear access point makes a sunset hike as simple as closing the gate behind you.

For buyers who want the Northern California outdoor lifestyle without leaving the conveniences of Novato behind, this is the rare combination: substantial upgrades, privacy, open space, and the trailhead right outside the door.

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