If There Are Only 5 Hikes You Ever Do In San Francisco, Make Them These
If you live in San Francisco, or are visiting, you may finding yourself asking, “what are some hiking trails near me?” Well, ask no more! We’ve rounded up 5 of the best hikes in San Francisco for locals or visitors. So keep reading, then give one of these trails a go.
1. Batteries to Bluffs Trail - The Presidio, Battery Godfrey, San Francisco, 94123
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. It's truly one of the most scenic hikes in San Francisco. So read more about the
Batteries to Bluffs Trail, then grab your camera and try it out.
2. Buena Vista Park Hike - Buena Vista Ave E & Duboce Street, San Francisco, 94117
Buena Vista Park, Buena Vista & Haight Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA
Many trails in Buena Vista Park are paved and easy to navigate, and all trails to the top are around one mile each way. So this makes for one of the more kid-friendly hikes around San Francisco. Also, you see great views of the city in San Francisco’s oldest park. Learn more about the Buena Vista Park Hike, then plan your next walk there.
3. Marshall’s Beach Hike - Langdon Ct, San Francisco, 94129
Take time to hike to this secluded beach with stunning views. This trail initially follows the Batteries to Bluffs trail and then goes on a separate path. Are you curious about it? It's one of the best hikes in San Francisco, so learn more about the Marshall's Beach Hike, then grab some friends and visit.
4. Lover's Lane - Funston Avenue & Presidio Blvd, San Francisco
Funston Avenue & Presidio Boulevard, Funston Ave & Presidio Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Lover's Lane is one of the oldest trails in the Presidio, and it is an easy short trail as well. This hike is memorable for historical reasons as well as beauty. It's one of the easy hikes in San Francisco, so read more about Lover's Lane, then check it out.
5. Lobos Creek Valley Trail - 1750 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, 94129
This hike is often overlooked, but it should be a must-do for every nature lover in the city. The sand dunes in this hike are stunning and the area offers some history. Check out more information on the Lobo's Creek Valley Trail and be sure not to skip this one.
Watch this video to learn more about the Lands End Trail in San Francisco. This is another very popular and worthwhile hike in San Francisco you can’t miss!
Address: Funston Avenue & Presidio Boulevard, Funston Ave & Presidio Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Buena Vista Park, Buena Vista & Haight Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA
Address: Marshall's Beach, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
Address: 1750 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in san francisco
April 05, 2022
Jessica Bohl
What are some scenic hikes in Northern California?
Northern California overflows with gorgeous scenery and stunning landscapes. And fortunately, there are many hiking trails that take you to, through, and among this breathtaking scenery. As many people know, the towering Redwood Trees in Northern California are a sight to behold. Take the Stout Grove Trail and explore the extraordinary grove. For a lovely meadow scene with a snow-capped mountain in the distance, be sure to try Lassen Peak Trail. If lakes make your heart go pitter patter, hit up the 2 mile hike at Eagle Lake. These hikes will get you started, but be sure to read more about scenic hikes in Northern California to fill out your list.
What are some kid-friendly hikes around Northern California?
Hiking with your kids is an incredibly special way to have quality family time. There is nothing more refreshing and rejuvenating that exploring the great outdoors with loved ones. There are so many wonderful hiking options in Northern California, but when you’re bringing your kids along for the joyous experience, be sure to look for certain trail characteristics to make the most of the experience. First off, be sure the trail is a distance suitable for the age of your kids. Generally, hikes that are 1 mile or less work well for kids. Second, kids do better with relatively flat hikes, at least kids who are just starting to hike. Third, a great natural feature always makes a trail a bit more special for the kids, and adults too! Potem Falls Trail in Montgomery Creek perfectly fits the bill. It is only half a mile long, but rewards hikers with a studding 70 foot waterfall. So check it out today and be sure to check out these other amazing kid-friendly hikes around Northern California.
Address: 1750 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, 94129
Address: Funston Avenue & Presidio Boulevard, Funston Ave & Presidio Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Buena Vista Park, Buena Vista & Haight Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA
Address: Marshall's Beach, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
Address: 1750 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA