Twin Peaks

San Francisco, California, United States

You can start right in the center of the city with Twin Peaks. Climbing the easy half-mile trail increases your elevation by 400 feet, putting you a total of 925 feet above sea level. This is the place to check out the best 360-degree view inside city limits. Twin Peaks is easily accessible through public transportation. If you take Muni Metro K, L, or M trains to the Castro St. station, the trailhead is just a few blocks away.

Mount Davidson

San Francisco, California, United States

Another option is the 1.5-mile Mount Davidson Trail loop, which takes you to the highest point in the city. Mount Davidson is home to a San Francisco landmark, the historical Mount Davidson Cross. This icon stands 103 feet tall, so it can be seen from most points in the city. It is here that the Annual Easter Sunrise Service has been held since 1923. The simplest way to get to Mount Davidson is by public transportation. Take BART from downtown to the Glen Park station, then the 38 Muni bus to the corner of Dalewood Way and Myra Way.

Tiburon, CA

If you want to take a hike that circles an entire island without ever leaving city limits, take the Angel Island - Tiburon Ferry or the Blue & Gold Angel Island Ferry to Angel Island State Park. See the San Francisco skyline from a brand-new vantage point as you trek the five-mile loop.

Lands End Trail

San Francisco, California, United States

One of the most popular hikes in the city is the Land’s End Trail, which is ideal for hikers of moderate ability. On the northwest tip of San Francisco, this four-mile path takes you to spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

San Francisco, CA

If you prefer a hike on more stable ground, the Golden Gate Promenade is partially paved. You can walk from Fort Point to Aquatic Park along the 3.5-mile path, stopping frequently for photos on the waterfront.

Presidio of San Francisco

San Francisco, California, United States

You can enjoy 24 miles of hiking trails on the Presidio grounds. Try the three-mile trail that takes you past four of Andy Goldsworthy’s acclaimed sculptural installations: "Spire", "Wood Line", "Earth Wall", and "Tree Fall". The Presidio’s location on the Pacific Flyway, a heavily-trafficked migratory route for birds, makes hiking in the park especially exciting for birdwatchers.

Mill Valley, CA

Try the 1.2-mile Ocean View Trail through the Muir Woods National Monument. The path wanders among old-growth redwoods, then takes you up where you can see the 600 to 800-year-old trees from above. For a route that loops, turn onto Lost Trail, then follow Fern Creek Trail, which takes you back to the start.

591 Tennessee Valley Rd
Mill Valley, CA

Hikers traveling with younger family members or those looking for a less strenuous hike will enjoy the Tennessee Valley Trail. This 1.7-mile path (3.4 miles round-trip) stretches from the parking area to Tennessee Beach. If you time your arrival just right, you may catch a glimpse of the shipwrecked SS Tennessee, revealed by the outgoing tides.

Sausalito, CA

If you are prepared for rough terrain, follow the half-mile trail that ends at Point Bonita Lighthouse. If you plan to go inside the lighthouse, be advised that hours are quite limited. Currently, the site is open to visitors on Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

3801 Panoramic Hwy
Mill Valley, CA

North of the city in Marin, Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a network of trails ranging from easy to moderate levels of difficulty. Some trails are just over two miles long, while others span a full 16 miles. Visitors hike, bike, jog, and picnic throughout the park year-round, making it one of the area’s most popular attractions.

Kirby Cove Road
Mill Valley, CA

Not all trails take you up hills and mountains. In the case of Kirby Cove, your hike starts with a steep descent. You'll pass by eucalyptus, pine, and cypress trees. When you reach the end, you will find yourself on a cozy beach. Take in panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge while gentle waves lap at your toes. To get there, park on Conzelman Road and head down old Kirby Cove Road.

Point Reyes Station, CA

It takes dedication to complete a 13-mile round-trip trek, but this one is well worth the effort. When you reach Wildcat Beach, a dramatic waterfall awaits. Alamere Falls is a tidefall, which is relatively uncommon. Fed by Alamere Creek, the falls pour over a 30-foot cliff onto the beach below. During high tide, it’s hard to tell where the end of the falls and the surf begins.

43600 Mission Blvd
Fremont, CA

Mission Peak is popular for its 360-degree panoramic views of the Bay Area, but that’s not the only reason hikers make the climb. When you reach the 2,517-foot summit, an unusual sight awaits in the form of a six-foot steel pole with sighting tubes that point to a variety of distant landmarks. A selfie with the “Mission Peeker” is a badge of honor.