Top 28 Hiking Trails in San Francisco
San Francisco, known for its steep hills and scenic views, offers a variety of hiking trails for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. "Hiking Trails in San Francisco" provide opportunities to explore lush parks, breathtaking vistas, and diverse landscapes within the city limits. These trails cater to all skill levels and offer unique experiences for both tourists and locals alike. Come and uncover the hidden gems of "San Francisco's Hiking Trails."
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- 1. Lands End Trail
- 2. Batteries to Bluffs Trail
- 3. Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve
- 4. Glen Canyon Park
- 5. Lower Great Highway Trail
- 6. Mt. Davidson
- 7. Glen Canyon Trailhead
- 8. Coastal Trail
- 9. Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio
- 10. Sand Ladder at Baker Beach
- 11. Eureka Peak
- 12. Philosopher's Way Trailhead
- 13. Edgewood Trail
- 14. Wood Line
- 15. Strawberry Hill
- 16. Ecology Trail
- 17. Mount Davidson Hiking Path Entrance
- 18. Historic Trail Trailhead
- 19. Glen Canyon Main Trail End
- 20. Presidio Promenade Trail
- 21. Edgehill Mountain
- 22. Pemberton Place Steps
- 23. Fairy Gates Trailhead
- 24. Battery East Trailhead
- 25. John Muir Nature Trail
- 26. West Coyote Trail
- 27. 22nd Street Jungle Steps
- 28. Laguna Honda Community Trail System
1. Lands End Trail
Gateway to Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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The location is easy to park and not crowded, making it a hassle-free destination to visit. Bathrooms are available on site, which is convenient for visitors. Dogs are welcome, so it can be a great place to bring furry friends. The views from this location are outstanding, providing a picturesque backdrop to any visit.
The condition of the location is excellent, with great views that are absolutely gorgeous. It is a place that is highly recommended for visitors. Whether you're looking for a place to take a walk, have a picnic, or simply take in the scenery, this location delivers on all fronts. With its convenient amenities and stunning views, it's well worth a visit.
The location is easy to park and not crowded, making it a hassle-free destination to visit. Bathrooms are available on site, which is convenient for visitors. Dogs are welcome, so it can be a great place to bring furry friends. The views from this location are outstanding, providing a picturesque backdrop to any visit.
The condition of the location is excellent, with great views that are absolutely gorgeous. It is a place that is highly recommended for visitors. Whether you're looking for a place to take a walk, have a picnic, or simply take in the scenery, this location delivers on all fronts. With its convenient amenities and stunning views, it's well worth a visit.
2. Batteries to Bluffs Trail
Accessible coastal trail with wildlife sightings
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Upon arriving early at the location, there were no other visitors in sight. The weather was pleasant, allowing for the removal of a light jacket midway through the experience, and the comfort of wearing shorts was appreciated. The parking area was a medium-sized lot, and it was fortunate to find that parking was free.
The hike that followed was easy and scenic, offering several beautiful viewpoints along the way. This hike provided a good workout, particularly when it came to navigating the stairs. The total distance covered was 2.7 miles, with an elevation gain of 440 feet. The entire hike took approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete.
Upon arriving early at the location, there were no other visitors in sight. The weather was pleasant, allowing for the removal of a light jacket midway through the experience, and the comfort of wearing shorts was appreciated. The parking area was a medium-sized lot, and it was fortunate to find that parking was free.
The hike that followed was easy and scenic, offering several beautiful viewpoints along the way. This hike provided a good workout, particularly when it came to navigating the stairs. The total distance covered was 2.7 miles, with an elevation gain of 440 feet. The entire hike took approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete.
3. Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve
Historic foggy forest in the heart of San Francisco
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Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve offers a 2.2 mi trail with an elevation gain of 498 ft, and a longer 4.3 mi Twin Peaks and Mount Sutro Loop. AllTrails.com users rate the Mount Sutro Loop as the top hiking trail, with 4.6 stars from 2,449 reviews.
AllTrails.com hikers favor the Mount Sutro Loop, the longest trail in Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, which boasts a 4.6 star rating from 2,449 reviews. This trail is 4.3 mi long and includes an elevation gain of 498 ft, making it a challenging and popular choice for hikers.
Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve offers a 2.2 mi trail with an elevation gain of 498 ft, and a longer 4.3 mi Twin Peaks and Mount Sutro Loop. AllTrails.com users rate the Mount Sutro Loop as the top hiking trail, with 4.6 stars from 2,449 reviews.
AllTrails.com hikers favor the Mount Sutro Loop, the longest trail in Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, which boasts a 4.6 star rating from 2,449 reviews. This trail is 4.3 mi long and includes an elevation gain of 498 ft, making it a challenging and popular choice for hikers.
4. Glen Canyon Park
Natural rock formations and wildlife
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The Creeks to Peaks Trail is known for its challenging elevation gain, with a total ascent of 757 feet. This makes it the park's trail with the most significant elevation gain. On the other hand, Glen Canyon Park Loop comes in second with 308 feet of elevation gain, making it a more manageable option for those looking for a less strenuous hike.
Glen Canyon Park Loop is a popular choice for hikers, with an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,700 reviews. The trail is 1.8 miles long, and with its elevation gain of 308 feet, it provides a moderately challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a more leisurely walk, these two trails offer unique experiences that cater to different fitness levels and preferences.
The Creeks to Peaks Trail is known for its challenging elevation gain, with a total ascent of 757 feet. This makes it the park's trail with the most significant elevation gain. On the other hand, Glen Canyon Park Loop comes in second with 308 feet of elevation gain, making it a more manageable option for those looking for a less strenuous hike.
Glen Canyon Park Loop is a popular choice for hikers, with an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,700 reviews. The trail is 1.8 miles long, and with its elevation gain of 308 feet, it provides a moderately challenging but rewarding experience. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a more leisurely walk, these two trails offer unique experiences that cater to different fitness levels and preferences.
5. Lower Great Highway Trail
Breathtaking sunsets
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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. The trail is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and trail running, among other outdoor activities.
If you're looking for hiking trails in the San Francisco area, AllTrails is a great resource to explore. They offer 111 scenic trails in the area, complete with hand-curated trail maps and reviews and photos from other nature lovers. Whether you're preparing to hike, bike, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails can help you find the perfect trail for your needs.
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. The trail is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and trail running, among other outdoor activities.
If you're looking for hiking trails in the San Francisco area, AllTrails is a great resource to explore. They offer 111 scenic trails in the area, complete with hand-curated trail maps and reviews and photos from other nature lovers. Whether you're preparing to hike, bike, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails can help you find the perfect trail for your needs.
6. Mt. Davidson
Highest natural point in San Francisco
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Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, there is a great trail with outstanding views, especially when the fog has cleared. The trail is not very difficult, although there is a challenging walk uphill to reach the top.
To start the hike, you can park near the intersection of Myra Way and Dalewood, close to a bus stop. From there, the trail leads you up the mountain on a road that is closed to cars. The top of the mountain is the highest point in the city and offers wonderful views, making the uphill walk worth the effort.
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, there is a great trail with outstanding views, especially when the fog has cleared. The trail is not very difficult, although there is a challenging walk uphill to reach the top.
To start the hike, you can park near the intersection of Myra Way and Dalewood, close to a bus stop. From there, the trail leads you up the mountain on a road that is closed to cars. The top of the mountain is the highest point in the city and offers wonderful views, making the uphill walk worth the effort.
7. Glen Canyon Trailhead
Dog-friendly trail
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Glen Canyon, located in San Francisco, is a 60-acre wilderness area known for its stunning spring wildflower displays and dramatic rock formations made of chert. Islais Creek, one of the few remaining free-flowing creeks in the city, runs through the canyon, providing a critical habitat for a variety of wildlife. The area offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle, serving as a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors seeking relaxation.
Glen Canyon Trailhead is a natural gem tucked away in the bustling city of San Francisco. The urban canyon boasts beautiful spring wildflower displays, dramatic chert rock formations, and the free-flowing Islais Creek. The trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from muddy areas to castle-like peaks and refreshing tree canopies, making it a surprising and enjoyable destination for city dwellers and tourists alike.
Glen Canyon, located in San Francisco, is a 60-acre wilderness area known for its stunning spring wildflower displays and dramatic rock formations made of chert. Islais Creek, one of the few remaining free-flowing creeks in the city, runs through the canyon, providing a critical habitat for a variety of wildlife. The area offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle, serving as a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors seeking relaxation.
Glen Canyon Trailhead is a natural gem tucked away in the bustling city of San Francisco. The urban canyon boasts beautiful spring wildflower displays, dramatic chert rock formations, and the free-flowing Islais Creek. The trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from muddy areas to castle-like peaks and refreshing tree canopies, making it a surprising and enjoyable destination for city dwellers and tourists alike.
8. Coastal Trail
connects many of San Francisco's parks
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A wonderful way to experience the San Francisco coast is by taking a walk along the coastline. This activity is not crowded, making it a great opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views without interference. The walk is easy to undertake, with only a few areas featuring minor elevation and stairs at several points.
The weather was excellent during the walk, which added to the overall experience. The views were absolutely fantastic, providing a great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area. Overall, this easy walk with its stunning views is an enjoyable way to see the San Francisco coast.
A wonderful way to experience the San Francisco coast is by taking a walk along the coastline. This activity is not crowded, making it a great opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views without interference. The walk is easy to undertake, with only a few areas featuring minor elevation and stairs at several points.
The weather was excellent during the walk, which added to the overall experience. The views were absolutely fantastic, providing a great opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area. Overall, this easy walk with its stunning views is an enjoyable way to see the San Francisco coast.
9. Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio
Historic military setting turned urban park
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Lover's Lane trail is an ideal escape from the city bustle, offering a peaceful atmosphere for both solo and romantic walks. The trail is well-maintained, accessible, and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Wood Line, an artistic installation, runs parallel to the east of the trail, offering a unique and visually pleasing aspect.
Lover's Lane trail is an ideal escape from the city bustle, offering a peaceful atmosphere for both solo and romantic walks. The trail is well-maintained, accessible, and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Wood Line, an artistic installation, runs parallel to the east of the trail, offering a unique and visually pleasing aspect.
10. Sand Ladder at Baker Beach
Unique sand ladder to access high tide area
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For those seeking an adventure, the north end of Baker Beach in San Francisco offers the Sand Ladder, a challenging but rewarding experience. This ladder made of wood and sand connects to the California Coastal Trail and Batteries to Bluffs Trail. The Sand Ladder presents a strenuous climb, but the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views of the ocean and phenomenal sunsets that await at the top.
While the descent down the Sand Ladder is relatively easy, the return trip can be quite challenging. It is highly recommended to be in good physical condition before attempting the climb back up. Despite the difficulty, the opportunity to witness stunning views and enjoy a unique outdoor experience makes the Sand Ladder at Baker Beach a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers.
For those seeking an adventure, the north end of Baker Beach in San Francisco offers the Sand Ladder, a challenging but rewarding experience. This ladder made of wood and sand connects to the California Coastal Trail and Batteries to Bluffs Trail. The Sand Ladder presents a strenuous climb, but the effort is worth it for the breathtaking views of the ocean and phenomenal sunsets that await at the top.
While the descent down the Sand Ladder is relatively easy, the return trip can be quite challenging. It is highly recommended to be in good physical condition before attempting the climb back up. Despite the difficulty, the opportunity to witness stunning views and enjoy a unique outdoor experience makes the Sand Ladder at Baker Beach a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers.
11. Eureka Peak
12. Philosopher's Way Trailhead
13. Edgewood Trail
14. Wood Line
Discover the enchanting Wood Line in San Francisco, also known as Lovers Lane. Meander through towering eucalyptus trees along a whimsical woodland path, perfect for capturing photos with little ones for a sunset backdrop. Be prepared with warm attire as the location can be chilly and windswept. This Andy Goldsworthy creation offers a serene nature walk distinct from the nearby Lovers Lane pavement stroll. Begin at Lyon Street Steps for easy access to this tranquil woodland escape, only a short distance away. Embrace the peaceful ambiance and snap some memorable tree-lined photographs along the way.
15. Strawberry Hill
Only remaining full-sized windmill in Golden Gate Park
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Strawberry Hill, the centerpiece of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, is home to a stunning waterfall that can be reached through a hike up the hill. This trail offers a beautiful display of flora and fauna, including blackberry bushes and edible nasturtiums in orange and yellow.
Golden Gate Park, located west of San Francisco's city center, is a popular urban escape for city-dwellers seeking fresh air and a break from the urban landscape. Strawberry Hill Trail, located within the park, is a convenient and accessible destination for hiking and enjoying nature. However, due to its popularity, the trail can be heavily frequented on weekends, so hikers should be prepared to share the trail with others.
Strawberry Hill, the centerpiece of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, is home to a stunning waterfall that can be reached through a hike up the hill. This trail offers a beautiful display of flora and fauna, including blackberry bushes and edible nasturtiums in orange and yellow.
Golden Gate Park, located west of San Francisco's city center, is a popular urban escape for city-dwellers seeking fresh air and a break from the urban landscape. Strawberry Hill Trail, located within the park, is a convenient and accessible destination for hiking and enjoying nature. However, due to its popularity, the trail can be heavily frequented on weekends, so hikers should be prepared to share the trail with others.
16. Ecology Trail
Historic railroad grade and serene creek
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The Presidio Ecology Trail is a brief pathway that extends from Arguello Gate to the Presidio's Main Post, with a small detour to Inspiration Point offering scenic views of the Bay and Alcatraz. This easy-to-navigate trail is typically completed in 45 minutes and is a top choice for activities such as birding, hiking, and running. Despite its popularity, it's still possible to find solitude along the trail during less busy times of the day.
As a part of the larger Presidio park in San Francisco, the Ecology Trail showcases the area's diverse flora and fauna. Along the trail, hikers can expect to see a variety of plant life, including Bay trees and California sagebrush, as well as wildlife such as birds and rabbits. The trail's terrain is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. With its convenient location and scenic views, the Presidio Ecology Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural beauty of San Francisco.
The Presidio Ecology Trail is a brief pathway that extends from Arguello Gate to the Presidio's Main Post, with a small detour to Inspiration Point offering scenic views of the Bay and Alcatraz. This easy-to-navigate trail is typically completed in 45 minutes and is a top choice for activities such as birding, hiking, and running. Despite its popularity, it's still possible to find solitude along the trail during less busy times of the day.
As a part of the larger Presidio park in San Francisco, the Ecology Trail showcases the area's diverse flora and fauna. Along the trail, hikers can expect to see a variety of plant life, including Bay trees and California sagebrush, as well as wildlife such as birds and rabbits. The trail's terrain is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. With its convenient location and scenic views, the Presidio Ecology Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural beauty of San Francisco.
17. Mount Davidson Hiking Path Entrance
Highest natural point in San Francisco
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The entrance to the trail is located at 298 Juanita Way, marked by a set of old stone steps as the only indication. The path leads you uphill through a delightful cypress and eucalyptus forest, providing a pleasant walking experience. As you reach the top, you are greeted with breathtaking views of the city and bay, making it a newly discovered favorite spot.
Parking is convenient in the nearby neighborhoods, and the trailhead is just a short walk away. The coastal forest trail offers a quick yet rewarding hike, taking you through beautiful wooded areas before leading you to the stunning views of the city and bay. This spot is sure to be a new go-to location for anyone looking for a quick and scenic hike.
The entrance to the trail is located at 298 Juanita Way, marked by a set of old stone steps as the only indication. The path leads you uphill through a delightful cypress and eucalyptus forest, providing a pleasant walking experience. As you reach the top, you are greeted with breathtaking views of the city and bay, making it a newly discovered favorite spot.
Parking is convenient in the nearby neighborhoods, and the trailhead is just a short walk away. The coastal forest trail offers a quick yet rewarding hike, taking you through beautiful wooded areas before leading you to the stunning views of the city and bay. This spot is sure to be a new go-to location for anyone looking for a quick and scenic hike.
18. Historic Trail Trailhead
19. Glen Canyon Main Trail End
20. Presidio Promenade Trail
21. Edgehill Mountain
22. Pemberton Place Steps
23. Fairy Gates Trailhead
24. Battery East Trailhead
25. John Muir Nature Trail
26. West Coyote Trail
27. 22nd Street Jungle Steps
28. Laguna Honda Community Trail System
