Best of 31 kid-friendly hiking trails in San Francisco
Looking for a fun and engaging activity for your kids in San Francisco? Consider exploring the city's kid-friendly hiking trails! These trails offer scenic views, educational opportunities, and a chance to connect with nature. Perfect for families with children of all ages, these trails provide a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Come and discover the beauty of San Francisco's great outdoors with your little ones!
- 1. Batteries to Bluffs Trail
- 2. Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve
- 3. Glen Canyon Park
- 4. Lands End Trail
- 5. Lower Great Highway Trail
- 6. Mt. Davidson
- 7. Coastal Trail
- 8. Sand Ladder at Baker Beach
- 9. Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio
- 10. Glen Canyon Trailhead
- 11. Ecology Trail
- 12. Mount Davidson Hiking Path Entrance
- 13. Interior Greenbelt
- 14. Edgewood Trail
- 15. Philosopher's Way Trailhead
- 16. John McLaren Park
- 17. Pioneer Park
- 18. Corona Heights Park
- 19. Tank Hill
- 20. Huntington Falls
- 21. Wood Line
- 22. Eastern Coastal Trail Overlook
- 23. Fairy Gates Trailhead
- 24. Presidio Promenade Trail
- 25. Historic Trail Trailhead
- 26. Pemberton Place Steps
- 27. Beautiful view
- 28. Glen Canyon Main Trail End
- 29. John Muir Nature Trail
- 30. West Coyote Trail
- 31. Laguna Honda Community Trail System
1. Batteries to Bluffs Trail
Access to Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Batteries to Bluffs Trail in San Francisco is a popular spot for various outdoor activities, including birding, hiking, and running. It takes approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete the trail and is open year-round, offering stunning views in any season. The trail is suitable for families with children, making it a great option for a kid-friendly outdoor adventure.
The trail is part of the 1500-acre Presidio of San Francisco, a park that was once a military base and now features several old forts and bunkers. The hike begins atop a bluff, providing hikers with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. If you hike during the spring or summer, you will be surrounded by desert and dune wildflowers. Dolphins are also a common sight near the ocean. The trail's proximity to downtown San Francisco makes it an incredible experience to enjoy such a wonderful hike so close to the city's bustle. The trail provides stunning views any time of day, but sunset is a particularly magical time to visit.
2. Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve
Historical significance, rich wildlife
Mount Sutro Loop is a perfect trail for families, offering a 2.2-mile loop with moderate difficulty. This makes it an excellent option for children to enjoy while taking in the beautiful lush greenery and city views along the way.
Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting over 5 miles of public, multi-use trails. The reserve is open year-round, catering to hikers, trail runners, and families with children. It features a diverse landscape, providing stunning views of the city and the natural greenery.
3. Glen Canyon Park
Nearby Lake Powell for water activities
The hiking area in this city location offers a chance to connect with nature and provides a variety of trails to suit different fitness levels. There are uphill sections and stairs, but also easier routes for those who just want to take a leisurely walk with their dog. The park is a great place for families, with playgrounds for children and a baseball field where people can play or relax.
This park is not only a great hiking destination, but also has beautiful scenery and is a perfect place for children. The playground is a hit with kids, and there is a baseball field where people can play or watch a game. Additionally, the park offers nice hiking trails in the 'canyons' for those looking to explore the outdoors. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for both exercise and family-friendly activities.
4. Lands End Trail
Accessible coastal trail with stunning views
A beautiful and relaxing experience for a family outing on a Sunday is what makes this place so special. The beauty of the location truly makes one appreciate the natural wonders that surround us. With easy parking, the place is not crowded and offers bathrooms and dog-friendliness, making it a great spot for all to enjoy.
The conditions were excellent, and the views were absolutely breathtaking, making this place a must-visit. The scenery was gorgeous, and it is highly recommended for anyone looking for a great place to spend time with family and friends, or even for some solo relaxation. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, this place is the perfect destination.
5. Lower Great Highway Trail
Historic significance, Whale watching
The Lower Great Highway Trail is a 2-mile long green singletrack trail located near San Francisco, California. It is a multi-use trail that can be used in both directions and takes, on average, 9 minutes to complete. This trail is an excellent option for families looking for a kid-friendly hike because it is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it perfect for young children.
The trail is a popular spot for hikers, cyclists, and joggers, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding natural scenery. Its proximity to San Francisco also makes it an accessible and convenient option for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. Additionally, the trail's flat terrain makes it suitable for people of all fitness levels, making it a great choice for a leisurely walk or a more vigorous workout.
6. Mt. Davidson
Highest natural point in San Francisco
The trails offer a pleasant and enjoyable uphill hike through beautiful cypress and eucalyptus wooded areas. Hikers are rewarded at the summit with expansive views of the city and bay, making it a memorable experience. The area's great conditions and scenic vistas also make it an ideal destination for families with children, providing a fun and educational outdoor activity.
During the hike, the terrain is pleasant and enjoyable to navigate. The wooded areas are particularly noteworthy, with tall cypress and eucalyptus trees providing shade and a fresh, fragrant scent. As hikers reach the top, they are greeted with breathtaking views of the city and bay, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding area. Overall, the hike is a fun and memorable experience for all ages, with great conditions and scenic views at every turn.
7. Coastal Trail
connects many of San Francisco's parks
The area is ideal for visiting in the early morning, offering easy parking and beautiful views. It's a great place for walking and running, and it's also kid-friendly. The trail features benches at vista points, providing opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket.
The trail is an easy walk with minor elevation and stairs in several places. On a nice day, the weather and views are fantastic. The only downside is that it is a fully out and back walk, which may not be ideal for those looking for a more varied route. If this is the case, it is possible to take an Uber from Golden Gate Plaza back to the parking lot at Lands End.
8. Sand Ladder at Baker Beach
Unique sand ladder access
The Baker Beach Coast Trail is a scenic route that takes hikers along the bluffs above Baker Beach, offering spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. This trail is suitable for families with children, featuring stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
9. Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio
Historic military setting, dog-friendly
Lover's Lane trail is an ideal place to escape the city and enjoy nature. It is a well-maintained and easily accessible trail, suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. One visitor described their experience of visiting the trail early on a Sunday morning, seeking a break from the concrete buildings of the downtown area. They found the pathway to be mostly paved but appreciated the beautiful wooded area up the hill. The peaceful surroundings made for a truly relaxing experience.
In summary, Lover's Lane trail offers a tranquil retreat from urban living. Its accessibility and relative ease make it a popular choice for individuals and families. One visitor's account highlights the contrast between the concrete jungle and the natural beauty of the trail. The trail's paved pathway and peaceful wooded areas create an ideal setting for those looking to connect with nature.
10. Glen Canyon Trailhead
Dog-friendly trail
Escape the busyness of the city with a trip to Glen Canyon Park Loop, a family-friendly nature walk that offers a reprieve from urban life. The trail boasts beautiful scenes of blooming wildflowers in the spring and lush vegetation year-round, as well as impressive outcrops and a charming stream. This popular area is great for hiking, running, and walking, and visitors are likely to encounter others while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is perfect for bringing along dogs, who must be kept on a leash.
Glen Canyon Park Loop is a kid-friendly destination, offering a natural refuge for families looking to spend time outdoors. The trail is easily accessible and provides a chance to see a variety of plant and wildlife. The loop trail is a moderate hike, making it a great option for families with children of different ages. The park is open year-round, so visitors can enjoy the trail in any season. In addition to hiking, the park is a great spot for picnicking, nature studying, and photography.
11. Ecology Trail
Easy hiking trail with scenic views
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of habitats on the Ecology Trail, a short route that connects the Main Post with Inspiration Point in the Presidio. This trail is located within Tennessee Hollow, the park's largest watershed, and offers hikers a glimpse into different ecosystems. The trail is generally considered easy to navigate and takes an average of 45 minutes to complete. Popular activities on the trail include birding, hiking, and running.
12. Mount Davidson Hiking Path Entrance
Highest point in San Francisco
A peaceful neighborhood stroll can be found on this trail, which can be accessed from Juanita Way for a little adventure. Despite some dampness and mud from recent rain, the trail is in fairly good condition. It's a serene hike with city views that are beautiful, and it's not as crowded as some other trails.
This trail, tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, offers outstanding views, particularly if the fog has lifted. The hike is not challenging and can be easily navigated. It's a great option for those looking for a peaceful walk with scenic views.
13. Interior Greenbelt
Historic sites like Sutro Baths
This location is ideal for a family hike, particularly if you have young children. The trails are well-maintained and not too steep, making them easy for kids to navigate. Along the way, there are many interesting things for kids to see and explore, which makes the hike even more enjoyable for them.
In particular, this hiking spot is great for keeping kids engaged and entertained. The trails offer plenty of opportunities for little ones to explore their surroundings and discover new things. With a variety of sights and sounds to take in, kids are sure to have a fun and memorable experience on the hike.
14. Edgewood Trail
15. Philosopher's Way Trailhead
16. John McLaren Park
Off-leash dog park, largest outdoor fireplace in city
John McLaren Park Loop Hike is a fantastic outdoor activity for families in San Francisco. The 1.2-mile loop is easy to navigate, making it perfect for families with kids and dogs. The trail is well-maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. One of the best features of this hike is the beautiful scenery, which provides a great opportunity to teach children about nature and local flora and fauna.
In addition to being a kid-friendly trail, John McLaren Park Loop Hike is also an excellent option for those looking for a relaxing and scenic walk. The loop offers stunning views of the park and is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you're a local looking for a new place to explore or a tourist visiting the area, this hike is a must-try activity. With its easy terrain and beautiful scenery, it's no wonder why this trail is a favorite among families and nature enthusiasts alike.
17. Pioneer Park
Only dog-friendly tower in San Francisco
AllTrails offers a variety of scenic trails in the Pioneer area for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and trail running. The app provides hand-curated trail maps, reviews, and photos from other nature lovers. It's a great resource for planning outdoor adventures.
I recently tried one of the trails in the Pioneer area with my family, and it was a hit. The trails were easy enough for our kids to handle and offered stunning views of the city. One of the highlights for my kids was spotting wild parrots during our hike. Overall, it was a great spot for a family outing, and we'll definitely be using AllTrails to find more trails in the future.
18. Corona Heights Park
Dog-friendly park with a small off-leash area
Corona Heights Park is a moderately challenging hiking destination that takes around 20 minutes to complete. This park is a popular spot for birding, hiking, and running, but it's also possible to find solitude during less busy times of the day. Dogs are permitted, but they must be kept on a leash. The park is family-friendly, offering beautiful views and opportunities to see wildlife.
The park features a one-mile trail network that loops around the hill and leads to the summit, where hikers can enjoy a 360-degree view of the San Francisco Bay Area. While the trails can be steep, they are generally stable and suitable for children. The park provides great views and a chance to connect with nature, making it an excellent destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
19. Tank Hill
Known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views
Tank Hill is a local's alternative to the popular Twin Peaks in San Francisco, known for its spectacular hiking trails and panoramic views of the city. The hill is a hidden gem that offers beautiful wildflowers during the right season and is perfect for picnics, relaxing, and watching the sunset. The trail is popular for birding and walking, so it's likely you'll encounter other people while exploring, making it a great spot for socializing with fellow nature lovers.
The trail is open year-round and is a kid-friendly spot, making it an ideal destination for families. Dogs are also welcome, and they can be off-leash in some areas. In addition to its stunning views, Tank Hill is also a great area for birdwatching and taking a leisurely walk. The hill's natural beauty and serenity make it a perfect spot to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
20. Huntington Falls
360-degree views from the top
Strawberry Hill, located in the heart of San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, is a popular destination for families and nature lovers. The hill is accessible via easy-to-climb staircases that flank a picturesque waterfall. Visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic and enjoy it at the summit, in the Golden Gate Pavilion, or on one of the benches along the Lakeshore Trail while taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape and the wildlife, such as ducks, turtles, and birds.
The Stow Lake Loop is another popular attraction in Golden Gate Park. This trail offers a pleasant stroll around a beautiful lake, making it an ideal spot for joggers and bird watchers. Along the way, visitors can explore a charming island and admire the tranquil beauty of Huntington Falls. The trail is open year-round and is perfect for bringing along a furry friend, as long as they are kept on a leash.
21. Wood Line
Another iconic spot in San Francisco: The Wood Line, also known as Lovers Lane, has beautiful, towering eucalyptus trees and a fun, breezy woodland line running through the trees. This location is great if you have small children who can't photograph closer to sunset. Here I always start between 2 and 3 hours before sunset, since there is a lot of shade. Note: It is often windy and cold, so dress warmly.
22. Eastern Coastal Trail Overlook
Whale watching during migration
The trail is not crowded and easy to park near, making it a peaceful place to visit. It's an excellent spot for walking, running, or taking children since the trail is well-maintained and has benches along the way. The vista points offer stunning views, but it's advisable to bring a light jacket as the weather can be windy and cloudy.
The early morning is the best time to visit this beautiful trail. The parking lot has ample space, and the stunning views are a treat to witness. The trail is child-friendly, with several benches along the way for resting and enjoying the scenery. However, be prepared for the weather as it can get windy and cloudy at times. Overall, it's an excellent trail for those seeking a peaceful and beautiful place to walk or run.
23. Fairy Gates Trailhead
24. Presidio Promenade Trail
25. Historic Trail Trailhead
26. Pemberton Place Steps
27. Beautiful view
28. Glen Canyon Main Trail End
29. John Muir Nature Trail
30. West Coyote Trail
31. Laguna Honda Community Trail System