16 Greatest Hikes in San Francisco You Should Attempt

Many vacationers know in regards to the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and flock there as quickly as they get to the town and they need to, it’s an icon of San Francisco. As somebody who has lived within the metropolis for nearly twenty years, vacationer points of interest in San Francisco are good, however I wish to share a technique to boost the expertise of visiting the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay space by combining it with lesser identified however nonetheless nice mountain climbing spots and vista factors. These are the perfect hikes in San Francisco to get you open air and provide superb views.

Greatest Hikes in San Francisco, California

1. Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space

Most vacationers have a tendency to begin their Golden Gate Bridge stroll on the base of the bridge, flip round and stroll again. They take some footage alongside the best way and go dwelling. That isn’t dangerous, however to get extra train, soak up higher views, and find yourself feeling extra glad by having a day stuffed with extra assorted experiences let’s take issues a bit additional.

The Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space boasts miles of mountain climbing trails, and unobstructed views and is the right approach to see a special aspect of San Francisco. It spans each the Marin and San Francisco sides of the Golden Gate Bridge and has mountain climbing trails for each health stage. For extra data on mountain climbing and parking go to the Golden Gate Bridge Web site.

2. Lands Finish

The path alongside Lands Finish Hike isn’t too lengthy, however it’s fairly magical. The stroll affords large vistas distinctive to San Francisco. On a transparent day, the hikers can see far into the depths of the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Marin Headlands to the north, and the Golden Gate Bridge to the east.

Begin off within the Outer Richmond space on the fringe of Lands Finish Golden Gate Space close to the Cliff Home and the historic Sutro Baths and Park on the Lands Finish Major Parking Lot. From there, a path leads into Lands Finish inside the Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space, and your journey begins.

The realm is named Lands Finish as a result of it’s situated actually on the finish of all land to the west as its cliffs finish on the base of the Pacific Ocean. The slender path that parallels the cliffs doesn’t disappoint. It rapidly leads the vacationers proper alongside the sting of the cliffs, beneath which the Pacific Ocean waves crash into the rocks.

Surprisingly, the park additionally has top-of-the-line artwork museums in San Francisco. The Palace of the Legion of Honor is a superb place to take a break for an hour or two and soak up some Picasso and Rembrandt earlier than lastly heading off to Golden Gate Bridge. The Lands Finish Path ends (no pun meant) on a avenue referred to as El Camino Del Mar, which has among the finest views of the ocean in the complete metropolis and is in a prestigious neighborhood. 

Viewpoints embrace the Sutro Baths, Jap Coastal Path Lookout, Lands Finish Labyrinth, Lifeless Man’s Level and the Golden Gate Bridge.

3. Golden Gate Bridge

Strolling again from Lands Finish Path, you may stroll all the best way to the Golden Gate Bridge. The road El Camino Del Mar passes China Seashore after which turns into Lincoln Boulevard which leads towards the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a highway-like avenue, however fairly quickly, smaller strolling trails develop into accessible as detours and lead in direction of the bridge through a quieter and extra scenic strolling route unhindered by vehicles.

As soon as on the bridge, the standard and traditional expertise of strolling the bridge affords among the identical views of San Francisco Bay from a a lot totally different angle. As well as, as you get nearer to the opposite aspect of the bridge, views of San Francisco downtown open up, with the long-lasting Transamerica constructing standing tall above the remainder.

On heat and clear days, there are various little sailboats proper beneath the bridge, throughout the bay, and close to Alcatraz Island.  As well as, there are various gigantic freighter ships coming into the San Francisco and Oakland ports from all over the place on the planet.  All of the ships to those ports come via the bay and they’re fairly a deal with to see. On fortunate days, there are even navy automobiles that come into the port and I’ve personally ever seen a submarine cruising above the water about ten years in the past.

4. Batteries to Bluffs

Sticking across the identical space because the Lands Finish hike is the Batteries to Bluffs path hike in San Francisco. Situated in San Francisco’s Presidio, a 1,500-acre park on a former navy submit, the Batteries to Bluffs path hike affords views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay space, and the rugged shoreline. That is only a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike spherical journey, so it may well simply be added to your San Francisco Itinerary.

The path begins at Lincoln blvd the place you may park on the Langdon Court docket Parking zone. This car parking zone connects to the paths resulting in the Golden Gate Welcome Heart which options the Golden Gate Overlook and the batteries used to guard the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco from 1891 to 1946. You may stroll via these historic websites with views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Presidio, Battery Boutelle, Battery Marcus and Battery Cranston.

The Golden Gate Overlook is among the premier spots to {photograph} the Golden Gate Bridge so the path is busy, however for good motive. It affords the perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge within the metropolis. There are a whole lot of picket steps alongside this hike and top-of-the-line locations to for sundown is to take the steps right down to Marshall’s Seashore.

5. Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks is among the finest San Francisco mountain climbing trails for spectacular metropolis views. It’s a closely trafficked path 3.4 mile loop path, and you may drive or cycle as much as the lookout. Twin Peaks is an city mountain climbing path situated inside the metropolis limits it’s the second tallest peak in San Francisco (922-foot tall ) that overlooks the complete San Francisco Bay space, and the town’s landmarks. The hike feels distant from the town with forest trails, eucalyptus timber, rocky outcrops, picket walkways and grime paths taking you as much as Eureka Peak and Noe Peak.

Beginning in Glen Canyon Park, the Twin Peaks path climbs 1.7 miles to Eureka Peak and Noe Peak after which descend on the North Facet to Christmas Tree Level for the perfect views of the Pacific and the town of San Francisco. Christmas Tree Level bought its identify from the enormous Christmas tree that’s erected every year by the town. On the best way again, hop on to the Gum Tree Women Path for a special perspective.

6. Mount Sutro Loop

If you wish to proceed strolling, it’s one other 1.1 miles from Twin Peaks alongside the street to the Mount Sutro Open House Reserve with mountain climbing trails and greenspace overlooking the town. Or you may stroll this 1.9 mile loop path (3.2 kilometer) alongside The Historic Path from seventeenth and Stanyan. It takes you as much as the Mount Sutro Open House Reserve which is a 61 acre open house reserve owned by the UCSF. It’s a in style spot for locals with 5 miles of public, multi-use trails, and a 900-foot elevation acquire.

On the best way down you may be a part of the Fairy Gates path to the Fairy Gates Trailhead at Stanyan Road to stroll again alongside the road to the place you began.

7. Golden Gate Bridge to Marin Headlands

One of the vital iconic issues to do in San Francisco is to stroll throughout the Golden Gate Bridge. Leaving from the Golden Gate Welcome Heart a stroll throughout the bridge to the Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space to the Marin Headlands. Most individuals discover this sufficient of a stroll, however if you wish to discover extra, There are many mountain climbing trails within the Muir Woods.

8. Muir Woods

Situated simply exterior of San Francisco, Muir Woods Nationwide Monument affords among the most gorgeous mountain climbing trails close to San Francisco. There are many totally different trails spanning throughout the 554 acres of Muir Woods. There are a number of trails in Muir Woods to select from.

Be aware that Parking reservations are required upfront. Parking fills up rapidly and for those who don’t e-book upfront you received’t get in. Verify with the Nationwide Parks Service for extra data.

This stunning space affords spectacular bay space mountain climbing among the many old-growth coastal redwoods. Muir Woods has varied trails, with The Muir Woods Major Path being a preferred beginning place that hooks up with different trails within the space.

Leaving from the Muir Woods Customer’s Heart and following Redwood Creek, this straightforward hike is finished on a boardwalk and is appropriate for all ages. It’s a 2.0 mile loop path (3.2 km) with solely a 30-foot elevation acquire.

In case you are searching for an extended hike be a part of The Ben Johnson Path for a 6.3km loop that may take you thru among the most beautiful landscapes within the Muir Woods Nationwide Monument.

9. Mount Diablo State Park

In case you are up for a little bit of a drive exterior of San Francisco, you may head out to Mount Diablo State Park, which is a couple of 40 minute drive east of the town. This can be a excellent day journey and the views over East Bay hills are spectacular. The summit path right here ranges in size and issue and is finest fitted to seasoned hikers.

For the perfect views we suggest the Donner Creek Loop path. This out-and-back path has among the most spectacular views and is extra of a average path.

Begin within the car parking zone on the north entrance at Regency Drive and hike alongside the Donner Creek Fireplace Street after which take the Again Creek Path Again.

One of many causes you’ll love this path is that you just truly move just a few waterfalls and weave via the plains throughout the second half of the path. In case you are searching for a day of mountain climbing, close to the San Francisco bay space ensure that to take a look at this State Park.

10. Tennessee Valley Path, Marin Headlands

Situated simply north of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Tennessee Valley path is a hike that results in a sandy seashore a good looking lookout. You may select from two totally different seashores. From the Tennessee Valley trailhead, you may both hike straight to Tennessee Seashore for an out-and-back hike or do the more difficult loop to Muir Seashore through the Pirate’s Cove Path. This hike begins from the Tennessee Valley Trailhead and is a couple of 9-mile loop.

When you select the Tennessee Valley path it winds its means via stunning coastal hills and ends on the seashore at Tennessee Cove. Right here you may have a picnic and take within the views of the Pacific Ocean. See extra: 24 Of The Greatest Seashores in California

11. Angel Island State Park

Surprisingly, Angel Island State Park is an usually ignored place to hike within the Bay Space, although it is just a 40min ferry journey from Pier 41 in downtown San Francisco. There are 2 essential mountain climbing trails within the state park. The Sundown Path goes to the summit of Mount Livermore and is a bit more difficult than the opposite one. The payoff is the 360 diploma views of the skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and East Bay.

The opposite path in Angel Island State Park is the Perimeter Path. That is a straightforward hike and provides you many various viewpoints in addition to locations to be taught in regards to the historical past of the island itself. In case you are visiting the bay space for just a few days then Angel Island is certainly price a go to even when mountain climbing just isn’t on the high of your checklist. You may as well camp on the island.

• Tips on how to Get to Angel Island:

12. Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

Situated within the East Bay Regional Park District, only a 20-minute drive from downtown San Francisco, Redwood Regional Park is finest is thought for the previous progress redwood forest that makes for the right backdrop to any hike. It’s truly the biggest remaining pure stand of coast redwood in East Bay.

Our advice is to hop on the Stream Path, Mill Path, and French Path Loop. This can be a path with a whole lot of ups and downs however the scent of the redwoods mixed with the gorgeous forest panorama make this an ideal hike particularly when it will get actually scorching.

 Begin on the Skyline Gate Parking Lot and comply with the Stream Path till you come to the place it meets the Mill Path. Observe this for a bit till it hooks up with the French Path and take this again to the car parking zone.

13. Mori Level, Pacifica

Mori Level is a spectacular lookout that’s simply south of San Francisco. Located in San Mateo County, Mori Level affords just a few totally different mountain climbing trails which might be alongside the coast. It additionally hooks up with the longer Coastal Path. This 32 acre wetland park has among the finest views of the ocean within the Golden Gate Nationwide Nationwide Recreation space.

The two trails we suggest are the Outdated Mori Path, which is extra of a stroll as it’s flat as a pancake. It does nevertheless convey you out to some unbelievable views. And you may head down the steps to get to the seashore for those who like. Simply bear in mind, you need to come again up the 185 steps.

The opposite advice is the Mori Level Loop Path. This 1.5-mile (2.4km) loop path affords some nice coastal views in addition to wildflowers and wildlife. It will possibly get windy alongside the coast and there are some steep sections, however it’s price it in our opinion. This can be a excellent place to benefit from the sundown and spot whales.

14. Tomales Level Path at Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore

This hike is among the classics. Not solely due to the gorgeous views, however as a result of it is among the quieter hikes close to San Francisco. The Tomales Level Path is situated in Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore between Tomales Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

There’s a lot to see throughout this hike. Duck Seashore, Sand Level, Tom’s Level and views of Chicken Rock simply to call just a few. What can be cool is that it’s solely within the Tule Elk Protect, so your possibilities of seeing some elk are fairly good.

That is an out-and-back path so ensure that to provide your self time to get again. One word, this path is commonly lined in fog. This doesn’t take away from the hike itself, however for those who put within the time to get to the lookout and it’s fogged in you may be disenchanted. That being mentioned, the hike is price it fog or no fog.

15. Mount Tamalpais state park

At Mount Tamalpais state park, there’s a little little bit of every part for everybody. Completely different trails with differing ranges of issue and size. Novices, seasoned hikers, walkers, joggers, and bikers all have a spot at Mount Tam.

Its various panorama makes making it some of the in style trails within the space. Take pleasure in gorgeous views of the rolling hills, oak forest, redwood, and scenic ocean on the paths.

The last word problem is to hike all the best way as much as the mountain peak for a panoramic view of the ocean. Most guests go for a leisurely stroll alongside the Dipsea Path, steep ravine path loop, and Matt Davis loop.

16. Half Moon Bay Coastal Path

Also referred to as the coast aspect path, take pleasure in scenic trails with breathtaking views of the pacific ocean. Though this path is on a cliff it’s most likely one of many best on this checklist as the complete terrain is usually flat. The mountain climbing path is about 6-mile roundtrip and is ideal for bikers, walkers, or hikers.

Your complete path is well-maintained and really straightforward to stroll, think about it extra of a scenic strolling route. Take pleasure in beautiful views of actual swimming within the ocean and birds floating about. One of the best half is the cooling breeze from the ocean that makes the hike properly price it.

What to Pack to your San Francisco Hikes

With regards to mountain climbing across the San Francisco space you wish to ensure you pack just a few requirements because the climate can change rapidly and also you wish to be ready for any state of affairs, even on the shorter hikes. Here’s what we recommend you pack in a day pack earlier than hitting the paths.

• Water
• Digicam or Smartphone
• Day Pack
• Climbing Jacket (Waterproof and windproof)
• Climbing Sneakers or Working Sneakers
• Snacks
• Beanie or heat hat
• Sunscreen
• Sun shades

No matter which hike you select, getting out onto the paths is a superb exercise so as to add to your San Francisco Itinerary. To say that we have been impressed with the sheer quantity of trails could be an understatement. Pair that with the coastal views and the way well-maintained the paths are and it’s straightforward to see why San Francisco is a superb place to hike.

Creator Bio

Alex Genadinik has lived in San Francisco for over 15 years and enjoys the Northern California open air.  He’s presently engaged on uniting the various totally different small mountain climbing teams dispersed all through the Bay Space right into a extra united out of doors neighborhood. You could find out extra about nice San Francisco hikes at Climbing San Francisco. This submit has been up to date by ThePlanetD Staff.