12 Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area for All Skill Levels

When you think of San Francisco, you probably picture cable cars, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. But with a year-round temperate climate and hilly terrain, the city also offers great hiking (often with ocean or bay views). And the options only get more remarkable when you zoom out to the entire Bay Area, home to coastal cliffs, towering redwoods, and wildlife-rich wetlands. The best part is that many trails are within a short drive (or even a walk) from the city's core, making a day hike a breeze.

Whether you only have time for an easy one-mile loop or you're ready to summit one of the area's highest peaks (Mount Diablo at 3,849 feet), there's something for everyone in these unassuming California hills. These hikes in San Francisco and other parts of the Bay Area are easily accessible, come in a range of difficulty levels, and boast stunning views.

Devil’s Slide Trail

Don't let the ominous name fool you: The 1.3-mile Devil's Slide Trail snakes along a beautiful portion of the coast just south of San Francisco on what was once part of Highway 1. Rest stops with strategically placed benches (read: views of the Pacific Ocean), observation scopes, and interpretive signs make it ideal for families or anyone looking for a relaxing hike with coastal views.

Dipsea Trail

Just a few miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge lies one of the most notable trails in Northern California: the Dipsea. It's known for its intense annual Dipsea Race — the oldest trail race in America — but you don't need to be a runner to make the trek or enjoy the views. From the intersection of Cascade Drive, Cascade Way, and Molino Avenue in the city of Mill Valley, amble up a series of staircases that ascend through a redwood grove, then stroll along a ridge overlooking stunning coastal valleys. If you're feeling ambitious, you can follow the 7.5-mile trail to Stinson Beach and reward yourself with a refreshing cocktail.

Lands End Trail

You don't have to leave San Francisco to hike Lands End Trail, one of the city's most popular and scenic urban paths. Just take Muni's 1 California bus (or an Uber) to the end of California Street, then trace the Lincoln Park Golf Course north to the trailhead. From there, you'll experience the wildest, rockiest corner of the city as you traverse dramatic cliffs with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach, and the Marin Headlands. At the tip of Lands End, you'll hit Point Lobos. Keep your eye out for wildflowers and the three shipwrecks that are visible from the trail as you make your way to the ruins of the Sutro Baths, a massive public saltwater swimming pool complex built in 1894.

Donner Creek Loop

Travel around 30 miles east of San Francisco and you'll run into the stunning 20,000-acre Mount Diablo State Park. With over 70 trails, there's enough hiking here to keep you busy for days. If you're looking for a moderate day hike, Donner Creek Loop is hard to beat. The trail will lead you past cascades flowing off the peaks of Mount Diablo over the course of a moderate 5.1-mile circuit.

Mitchell Creek to Diablo Summit

If you're up for a challenge, try this roughly 13-mile hike. Starting at the Mitchell Canyon Staging Area in Mount Diablo State Park, take the Mitchell Canyon Trail before continuing on the Meridian Ridge Trail, Juniper Trail, and finally, Summit Trail, which will take you to the top of Mount Diablo. Prepare for limited shade and a long but gradual climb with a few steep stretches. From your vantage point at 3,849 feet, you'll be able to see all the way to the Farallon Islands and Sierra Nevada mountain range on a clear day.

Mount Sutro Loop

Smack dab in the middle of the city, just south of Golden Gate Park, sits Mount Sutro. On this moderate two-mile trail, you'll find plenty of students and San Franciscans who come for a quick respite from the urban bustle. You can hop on the loop from several points, but for the best experience, start your journey at the intersection of 17th and Stanyan.

Baker Beach Trail to Golden Gate Bridge

If it's your first time visiting San Francisco, you won't want to miss the opportunity to stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge. To make the excursion more interesting, start your day at Baker Beach and head north toward the majestic landmark. This 6.3-mile out-and-back trail is popular, so to avoid the crowds — and get a tourist-free selfie — arrive early.

French, Bridle, and Stream Trail Loop

Just east of Oakland sits Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, a 1,833-acre green space home to a forest of 150-foot coast redwoods and wildlife like golden eagles and deer. There are nearly 40 miles of trails to explore in the park, but one of the best is the French, Bridle, and Stream Trail Loop, a 9.1-mile stretch that boasts views of the East Bay hills and a landscape full of iconic, towering redwoods. If you have time, pack a baguette and bottle of wine to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas along the way.

Sawyer Camp Trail

Head south from the city, along Interstate 280, and you'll come across Sawyer Camp Trail, which is part of the longer Crystal Springs Regional Trail. Sawyer Camp is clearly marked and paved, making it great for newbie hikers, families, and folks looking for a wheelchair-accessible excursion. Tackle part or all of the trail, which extends for six miles in one direction and passes by two bodies of water, San Andreas Lake and Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir.

Quarry Park Loop Trail

About 25 miles south of San Francisco lies the coastal town of El Granada, a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. From the Mavericks Cliffs Trail, you can watch surfers at the iconic Mavericks Beach before heading into the hills on the Quarry Park Loop Trail. This moderate hike is a four-mile loop that's best visited during the spring when colorful wildflowers carpet the area.

Candlestick Point

Candlestick Point State Recreation Area is a state park that's home to the scenic Candlestick Point trail. Located about a 15-minute drive south of downtown San Francisco, the park offers a quick and easy escape from the city. Along the 1.6-mile hike, you'll pass through an impressive mix of wetlands, beaches, and grasslands.

Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail

If you're in the mood for an easy oceanside walk, look no further than the Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail. The 7.5-mile out-and-back hike runs between Miramontes Point Road to Pillar Point Harbor. Carve out some time to stop at one of the beaches or sit atop a bluff and enjoy a cooling breeze from the ocean.