Easy Nature Outings in San Francisco

Hike, run, or bike on these beautiful trails that are easy to do and easy to get to

Jesse Weber

Images

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The Sutro Baths

by Matthew Dillon

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Warped cypress trees and flowering shrubs at Lands End

by Sharon Mollerus

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Golden Gate Bridge seen from Lands End

by Sharon Mollerus

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Golden Gate view from Lands End

by Beatrice Murch

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Looking back on Ocean Beach after climbing the Sutro Stairs

by Jon Evans

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Overlooking the Sutro Baths

by Matthew Dillon

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Refreshing fog on the Coastal Trail at Lands End

by Amit Patel

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Coastal Trail near Battery Godfrey

by David Fulmer

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Monterey cypress grove and the "Spire" sculpture

by Ernest McGray, Jr.

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On the slopes of San Bruno Mountain

by Mike Liu

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Panorama on the trail

by Mike Liu

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The city skyline

by C N

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Wildflowers and fog on the mountain

by Mike Liu

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Multi-use path in Golden Gate Park

by Adélia Yamasaki

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Biking in Golden Gate Park

by xiquinhosilva

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Ocean Beach at Golden Gate Park

by Nathan Yergler

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Beach on Angel Island

by Olivia Notter

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Lands End

by Shutterstock

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Land's End

by Shutterstock

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by Shutterstock

Description

For city lovers who also enjoy the outdoors, San Francisco is a great place to be. The urban habitat is superimposed on a stunning environment of hills and valleys, forests and fields, beaches and bluffs. Pockets of nature remain intact, and the city maintains excellent access for recreation. Hiking trails, multi-use paths, and bike lanes connect parks and open spaces throughout the city, making an escape to the outdoors relatively easy.

Here are some of the best trails for beginner-friendly hiking, biking, or running through a scenic slice of San Francisco. They are all within or near city limits, so you can conveniently get outside even on a work day. Go on your own, with the family, or with friends to show off San Francisco’s outdoor appeal.

Adventures

Lands End Loop

On the Lands End Trail you'll stroll through historic Lands End, in a beautiful forest, atop high sea cliffs, with lofty views of the Golden Gate Bridge.