The most spectacular hike in San Francisco is along the iconic Batteries to Bluffs Trail. This 2.3-mile coastal loop trail features dazzling views of the Pacific and Golden Gate Bridge. Along the way, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking, including a stop at the secluded Marshall's Beach. Now, let’s get hiking!
The first battery of the trail is a favorite spot to stop, gaze, or exercise. From 1902 to 1943 this battery was armed with two guns to protect underwater minefields.
Farther down the wooden steps is Marshall's Beach, which is so hidden and tranquil, it's become a favorite hangout for nudists. But you're really here for the view of the bridge, right?
Now, you need to head up these steps (there's nearly 500 of them), so preserve your energy. The stairs are in great condition because the trail was renovated in 2007.
Keep going until you reach Battery Spencer, which offers a jaw-dropping view of the famous bridge, as well as some fascinating military history of the area.
And once you've reached the top, you'll see the iconic Golden Gate from an unforgettable angle.
As you can see, San Francisco's awe-inspiring natural beauty is in full force on this trail. For another must-do city adventure, be sure to check out this easy hike that will lead you to someplace unforgettable.
Surrounded by natural beauty and spoiled by amazing weather year-round, San Francisco is a hiker's paradise with tons of easy hikes in the Bay Area. One of our favorite hikes in the city is the coastal Batteries to Bluffs Trail, but here, we wanted to include some easier and often overlooked urban and nature hikes in San Francisco for all levels of hikers. Let's take a look at the best easy hikes near San Francisco!
A wonderful and short hike without the crowds. Though the uphill hike may seem daunting at first, just take it slow. The hike is quite short, and once you've reached the top, you'll have beautiful views of the city. See what it’s like to hike this lovely trail
A flat walk guaranteed to thrill with all of the best city icons. This hike from Crissy Field to Fort Point is one of the country's prettiest urban walks, with panoramic views galore.
The Coastal Trail is mostly flat as it winds around the coast. This trail is beautiful and undoubtedly offers some of the best views of the Pacific, the Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
A hidden gem near downtown, Mission Creek Park has a great walking loop that starts at the 7th Street entrance. Enjoy lots of greenery and beautiful scenery, check out the houseboats, and hit up the dog park with your pooch. Get a closer look at the views on this trail
Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park glows with every shade of green possible. And though you will have to go uphill, the short climb is well worth it once you reach the scenic peak.
This easy and accessible climb ends with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Fog City and beyond. There's even a cool rock formation you can climb on top of as you admire the bustling city below.
The Bay Area Ridge Trail is the perfect trail to take visitors since it ends at the Golden Gate Bridge. It's an easy hike, although there is some uphill walking on the way back from the bridge.
Enter the park from Mansell Street onto John F. Shelley Drive to start the 1.6-mile loop. You'll pass by the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater and catch some of the best views in the city. There are plenty more miles of trails in this park, too, if you're up for more exploring.
Heron's Head Park includes an easy trail that offers some amazing scenery. You'll get stunning views of the bay and a chance to spot more than 100 species of birds. Get an aerial view of Heron’s Head Park
Have you been to any of these easy hikes near San Francisco? If so, let us know all about your experiences in the comments. For more great walking adventures, check out these incredible hikes under five miles everyone around San Francisco should take. Just make sure you're well prepared with all the info you'll need for these hikes.
San Francisco may be one of the greatest places to be during the wintertime—if you hate snow and freezing temperatures, that is. In fact, the mild climate is ideal for a winter hike. There are at least 11 of the best winter hikes around San Francisco that are perfect for this time of the year.
advertisement
Take a casual stroll along the coast or a mesmerizing excursion through a vast redwood forest. Please beware that visitors to any of the recommended hikes are advised to check the weather and hiking conditions before heading out. As the winter rains start up, many of the Bay Area’s most popular hiking trails may be too muddy and slippery to enjoy.
1. Cataract Falls Trail: 801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley
Cataract Falls on Mt. Tamalpais is a Bay Area winter favorite for hiking. This stunning 2.6 mile hike features cascades, moss, mushrooms and lichens. The rain may make this one more challenging or unforgettable!
This is a classic hike at any time, however, don't forget your hoodie. From the Lands End Trail, marvel at the beauty of Baker Beach and then weave your way up and down the coastline. There are parts of the trail with great Golden Gate Bridge shots. Also, climb the batteries, and take in breathtaking views the whole way through.
This hike is popular in all seasons because it is a truly one-of-a-kind spot. Muir Woods National Monument contains 6 miles of trails. These trails showcase beautiful giant redwood trees. Be prepared to be wowed.
This waterfall loop at Mount Diablo State Park is a remote hike that is relatively easy with scenic views. Here you will find paths for hiking, running, and biking.
Explore a 1.8 mile trail out to the bluffs on the Chimney Rock Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore. On this hike, you'll enjoy a dramatic coastline, crashing waves, and the fog rolling into the sunny inlet.
What a great place to enjoy winter in San Fransisco!
6. Land's End Trail: 680 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco
A must-do for any visitor or local this is by far one of the best places in San Francisco for a hike. There are miles of trails in the area, and they provide fantastic examples of coastal terrain while also letting you see the Golden Gate Bridge from many different angles. Lastly, don't miss the labyrinth hidden just beyond the Land's End Trail.
It’s a beautiful place to find things to do around San Fransisco.
7. Tomales Point Trail: Pierce Point Rd, Inverness, 94937
An incredible hike that can't be missed, the Tomales Point Trail showcases gorgeous scenery with ocean cliffs and crashing waves, and a variety of wildlife and wildflowers along the way.
advertisement
8. San Leandro Bay Regional Shoreline Hike: 1600 Neptune Dr, San Leandro
This longer hike is mostly on a fire road, and is about 10.5 miles. The hike up to the top of Mount St. Helena in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park offers some of the best views of any hike in Northern California.
11. Steep Ravine Trail: Panoramic Hwy and Old Mine Trail, Mill Valley
Another hike on Mt. Tamalpais is the Steep Ravine Trail, which grants coastal views, and is known for its ladder. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to Stinson Beach. Bundle up for this hike because even in the summer it can be chilly.
Did we miss a Bay Area hike you enjoy doing in the winter? What are some of your favorite winter hikes around San Francisco? Let us know in the comments below!
