r/lists • Posted by Liam O'Connell🏕️ Outdoors

Best Scenic Hiking Trails near San Francisco

Hey fellow adventurers! Living so close to San Francisco, I've had the incredible opportunity to explore some truly breathtaking trails. This list is a personal collection of my favorite scenic hikes, from stunning coastal paths with Golden Gate views to tranquil redwood groves, all within easy reach of the city. Lace up your boots and get ready to discover the natural beauty that makes this region so special!
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  1. 1

    Lands End Trail

    680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121
    alltrails.com
    This one's a classic for a reason! You get sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Pacific Ocean, and the rugged coastline. Don't miss the Sutro Baths ruins at the trailhead for a touch of history.
  2. 2

    Batteries to Bluffs Trail

    1504 Pershing Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129
    presidio.gov
    A fantastic, recently refurbished trail with incredible Golden Gate Bridge vistas and old military batteries to explore. Start at Baker Beach and work your way up for some truly epic photo ops!
  3. 3

    Mount Sutro Forest

    100 Medical Center Way, San Francisco, CA 94143
    mntsutro.com
    Who knew such a serene, magical redwood forest could exist right in the middle of the city? It's a perfect escape when you need a dose of nature without leaving San Francisco. Feels like a world away!
  4. 4

    Twin Peaks

    501 Twin Peaks Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94114
    en.wikipedia.org
    For the best 360-degree panoramic views of San Francisco, the Bay, and beyond, you absolutely have to hike up Twin Peaks. Go at sunset for an unforgettable sight, just be ready for some wind!
  5. 5

    Muir Woods National Monument (Redwood Creek Trail)

    1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941
    nps.gov
    Stepping into Muir Woods is like entering a cathedral of ancient redwoods – truly awe-inspiring! The main Redwood Creek Trail is easily accessible and lets you walk among these magnificent giants.
  6. 6

    Tennessee Valley Trail

    591 Tennessee Valley Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941
    nps.gov
    An easy, relatively flat walk through a picturesque valley leading right to a beautiful, secluded beach. It's a fantastic spot for families and offers stunning coastal views, especially if you climb the short bluffs.
  7. 7

    Coastal Trail (Marin Headlands)

    Rodeo Beach, Fort Cronkhite, Sausalito, CA 94965
    alltrails.com
    This loop starting from Rodeo Beach offers dramatic ocean cliffs, historic military batteries, and some of the most iconic Golden Gate Bridge views from the Marin side. It’s a moderate challenge with huge rewards!
  8. 8

    Mount Tamalpais State Park (Dipsea Trail Area)

    3801 Panoramic Hwy, Mill Valley, CA 94941
    alltrails.com
    Mount Tam is a gem, offering everything from redwood groves to epic ocean overlooks. The Dipsea Trail, famous for its race, is a challenging but incredibly scenic path, often connecting through Muir Woods and heading towards Stinson Beach.
  9. 9

    Alamere Falls Trail (Palomarin Trailhead)

    Mesa Rd, Bolinas, CA 94924
    alltrails.com
    Ready for something unique? This hike takes you to a rare 'tidefall' where a waterfall cascades directly onto the beach! It's a longer trek, but the reward is absolutely worth it.
  10. 10

    Tomales Point Trail

    Pierce Point Rd, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
    nps.gov
    Head up to the northern tip of Point Reyes for this spectacular out-and-back trail. The highlight? Spotting wild Tule Elk roaming freely against the dramatic coastal backdrop. It's a truly wild experience.
  11. 11

    Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail

    401 Venice Blvd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
    alltrails.com
    This paved, easygoing trail offers miles of stunning Pacific Ocean views along the bluffs of Half Moon Bay. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or just soaking in that fresh ocean air.
  12. 12

    Devil's Slide Trail

    5960 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacifica, CA 94044
    smcgov.org
    Once a treacherous stretch of Highway 1, this trail is now a paved path carved into dramatic coastal cliffs. The views of the ocean, migrating whales, and rugged shoreline are simply breathtaking.
  13. 13

    Purisima Creek Trail

    1600 Purisima Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
    openspace.org
    Escape into a lush, tranquil redwood canyon on this beautiful trail. You'll follow the creek, surrounded by towering trees and ferns, a truly peaceful contrast to the coastal hikes nearby.

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