10 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone Around San Francisco Should Take
The San Francisco Bay Area is truly a hiker’s paradise, whether you’re looking for a hardcore stomp through lush forests or a leisurely walk along the stunning coastline. Here, we’re focusing on the best hikes in San Francisco that are under five miles, all of which get you to some of the finest views known to man, whether you’re catching a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge, straining your neck to see the top of a half-century-old redwood, or looking down into the ashes of a once active volcano.
One of the more scenic urban trails, Lands End is as dramatic as it sounds. Start at the historic Cliff House, explore Sutro Baths, and take the Coastal Trail. Follow signs for Mile Rock Beach to see this breathtaking labyrinth in Golden Gate National Recreation Area and some of San Francisco’s most incredible views. You’ll end at the ritzy seaside neighborhood, aptly called Sea Cliff. The whole walk is roughly 2 miles and mostly flat.
2. Batteries to Bluffs Trail, San Francisco
Battery to Bluffs Trail, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
From the Lands End Trail, head through the Sea Cliff neighborhood and down to China Beach, then Baker Beach. Take the sand ladder up to Lincoln Blvd (you can also start here), and then head down the path on your left, where you’ll reach the first set of batteries. From here, you’ll weave your way up and down the coastline. Stop at the smaller Marshall's Beach for the ultimate Golden Gate Bridge shot, climb the batteries, and take in breathtaking views that make this one of the most scenic hikes in San Francisco.
3. Mount Davidson, San Francisco
Davidson, Mount, Mt Davidson, San Francisco, CA 94127, USA
Climb 927 feet to the highest peak in San Francisco for more outstanding views. Mount Davidson Park itself is laced with a few different trails, most offering a fairly leisurely 1-mile hike upward. Be sure to check out the 103-foot cross at the top—it's hard to miss.
There are several ways to weave your way through the Presidio. For one of the kid-friendly hikes around San Francisco try the Presidio Promenade—an easy 2.2-mile paved trail that starts at the Lombard Gate, passes by the San Francisco National Cemetery, and ends at the Golden Gate Bridge. Or the slightly longer Bay Area Ridge Trail, which starts at the Arguello Gate, leads you through the lush forest, pass the Spire sculpture made of Monterey cypress trunks, and all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge.
5. Mount Sutro Open Space, San Francisco
Mount Sutro, Mt Sutro, San Francisco, CA 94131, USA
From afar, Mount Sutro looks a bit intimidating, haunting even. In fact, it’s quite a hidden gem, with its uphill trail that weaves through a dense eucalyptus forest. Sometimes, the fog gets caught up here, and even though it can steal you from the views, it’s a magical experience in its own right. The whole loop is about 1.8 miles but still considered one of the best hikes in San Francisco.
6. Steep Ravine Trail to Dipsea Trail Loop, Mt. Tamalpais
Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
For this scenic and adventurous hike in Mount Tamalpais State Park, start at the Pan Toll Ranger Station and take the Steep Ravine Trail about 1.7 miles, then the Dipsea Trail for another 1.7 miles. From there, hop on the Old Mine Trail to get you back to your starting point in about 0.5 miles. Along the way, you’ll follow Webb Creek, pass wooden bridges, and even climb up a ladder. Throughout, you’ll be kept cool under a rich canopy of redwoods.
Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve is home to the Round Top volcano, which rises up 1,763 feet, is one of the East Bay’s oldest parks. Take the Round Top Loop Trail, a 2.5-mile hike, which passes by eucalyptus and pine trees, two labyrinths, and… cows. At the top, take a long look down into the once active volcano’s interior.
8. Muir Woods from Deer Park Fire Road
Deer Park Fire Road, Deer Park Fire Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Instead of battling the crowds at Muir Woods National Monument, take a detour via the Deer Park Fire Road (the trailhead is just a little past the main parking lot for Muir Woods). Follow this road, then take a right at the Ben Johnson Trail. You’ll climb roughly 800 feet over the 4.3-mile loop, while catching glimpses of the Pacific (if it’s a clear day), and passing by towering redwoods and Douglas firs.
9. Verna Dunshee Trail to the top of Mt. Tamalpais
Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
This is the easiest way to make it to the 2,570-foot peak of Mt. Tam for some of the finest views of Marin, San Francisco, and the East Bay. This 1.2-mile loop allows for an easy hike in San Francisco that is suitable for all levels and ages.
10. Redwood Regional Park Loop, Oakland
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA
Tucked in the hills east of Oakland, Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
boasts spectacular coast redwoods. Starting at the Skyline Gate Staging Area, you can take several trails and loops around the area for a truly tranquil day hike.
Address: Battery to Bluffs Trail, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA
Address: Deer Park Fire Road, Deer Park Fire Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Address: Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
Address: Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
Address: Mount Sutro, Mt Sutro, San Francisco, CA 94131, USA
Address: Lands End Trail, San Francisco, CA 94121, USA
Address: Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
Address: Davidson, Mount, Mt Davidson, San Francisco, CA 94127, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In San Francisco
May 02, 2022
Libby Monson
What are the most beautiful hikes in San Francisco?
Strawberry Hill Trail in Golden Gate Park is an easy hike in San Francisco that is also beautiful. You’ll enjoy the combination of landscaped and natural scenery while taking the short uphill climb. The water features are lovely and create an enchanting sound. If you enjoy birdwatching, bring your binoculars because this trail is an excellent spot to watch for your feathered friends. Some of the sections are steep, but you’ll find benches and picnic tables along the path, so you can rest and enjoy the beauty.
What are the best beaches in San Francisco?
Marshall’s Beach in Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a secret beach in San Francisco. You need to hike to this beach, but the hike is easily one of the best hikes in San Francisco. You’ll enjoy the views the whole way! In addition, you will have a perfect vantage point of the Golden Gate Bridge from the beach. Marshall’s is rocky, so be careful, especially when things can get slippery during high tide. At times the seclusion of this beach has meant some folks feel it is clothing optional, so be aware of that possibility.
Which hikes in San Francisco are short and sweet?
Sometimes short and sweet hikes are the best hikes in San Francisco. Lovers Lane at the Presidio is both short and incredibly sweet. This hike has scenery that is both stunning and romantic. Make a date with your sweetheart, and enjoy a stroll along this lovely little trail.
Address: Battery to Bluffs Trail, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Address: Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA
Address: Deer Park Fire Road, Deer Park Fire Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Address: Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
Address: Mount Tamalpais, Mt Tamalpais, California 94941, USA
Address: Mount Sutro, Mt Sutro, San Francisco, CA 94131, USA
Address: Lands End Trail, San Francisco, CA 94121, USA
Address: Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
Address: Davidson, Mount, Mt Davidson, San Francisco, CA 94127, USA
Stephanie is a freelance writer and editor based in San Francisco, California. When she's not tapping at a keyboard, she can be found leading groups on gourmet chocolate walking tours (best job ever) or running the many lovely hills and stairs of the city (to burn off all that chocolate, of course). She also runs a travel blog with her husband at Big & Small Travel (bigandsmalltravel.com).
