The best hikes in San Francisco

This is probably the most well-known hike in San Francisco, beginning at the Lands End lookout near Ocean Beach, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Check out the dramatic ruins of the Sutro Baths while you're there. Then, head east along the beautiful coastline and rocky cliffs overlooking the water. You'll walk through shady and fragrant cypress and eucalyptus trees and end with a gorgeous view of the Golden Gate Bridge. History buffs will want to pause at the USS San Francisco memorial erected to honor the WWII ship.

More of a walking trail than a hiking trail, this flat route through skyscrapers offers stops at historic markers. There are 180 bronze medallions and arrows set into the sidewalk that correspond to historical sites of importance. The trail begins at the Old Mint on Fifth and Mission and meanders through various neighborhoods until terminating at the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park at the waterfront. It's 3.8 miles of mostly flat walking.

Walk along the former military airfield with spectacular views of the water and the Golden Gate Bridge. It's 3.44 miles round trip and primarily flat, with great birdwatching opportunities. The trail officially starts at the Golden Gate Promenade at the east end of Crissy Field, but you can also start from the new Presidio Tunnel Tops, which opened last year (our version of New York's High Line) and make your way to Fort Point at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. Grab a Crissy mocha from the Warming Hut at Crissy Field if the weather is chilly.

You haven't seen San Francisco if you haven't summited Twin Peaks at some time or another. The views of the city from the heights are exhilarating. Once called in Spanish "Breasts of the Maiden," this dual bump hike will get your heart rate up with a 922-foot climb in elevation across a brief 0.7-mile trail. To move from the city to rustic grassland, start walking from the Haight instead—or consider extending your walk into Glen Canyon (see below).

This 66-acre park sits along a deep canyon, with trails crossing Islais Creek, one of San Francisco’s last free-flowing creeks. You'll find respite from city life with grassland, wildlife displays, and a sense of peace and calm. Enjoy the 3.7-mile network, including the “Creek to Peaks" trail to Twins Peak (see above). Wildlife abounds here, including birds that migrate from South America and coyotes. When you emerge from the wilderness, the recreation center has tennis courts and a ball field to extend the fun.

Well, that just sounds very San Francisco, doesn't it? The Philosopher's Way Trail is in McLaren Park and follows a section of its already-established trails. Along its 2.7-mile Philosopher's Way stretch you'll find 14 musing stations that feature plaques with thoughtful quotations, snippets of history or other curated wisdom. It was created by the San Francisco Arts Commission working with the city's Public Utilities Commission; start the walk at the 1229 Mansell St. trailhead.

Hike along the rugged coastline with views of the Pacific and the Marin Headlands from within the Presidio, San Francisco's former Army post turned national park. Lucky folks may even see dolphins and gray whales sporting in the waters below. There are dune plants, butterflies, lush greenery, little brooks and hidden springs. The trail terminates (or starts) at Battery Crosby, a historic gun battery. A path leads down to Marshall Beach to connect you with the breathtaking surf, or you can access Baker Beach by a sand ladder with rungs and ropes. With 470 stairs on this trail, it is not accessible for wheelchair users.

The ultimate urban hike with steps on the eastern side of Telegraph Hill, this trail leads you to the unusual "fire nozzle" beauty that is Coit Tower. Start at the Embarcadero (with its beautiful views) and Sansome Street and encounter metal stairs, ascending to wooden stairs, concrete stairs, gardens and even Art Deco decorations on buildings. It gets prettier as you go! And more strenuous, too: bring your sunscreen and water bottle.

Golden Gate Park provides a beautiful green swath through the city, and its roads and trails are easy to navigate. (Get out of your car as soon as possible and you'll be happier). The 2.3-mile trail starts at the Park Presidio and takes you past fun landmarks like the Murphy Windmill, the stone bridge at Stow Lake, and other park delights. You'll move westward to reach Ocean Beach and views of the Pacific.

Officially termed the Bay Area Ridge Trail, this iconic and very memorable walk takes you across the Golden Gate Bridge (it's very, very windy! Make sure your hat is tight fitting or it will sail away) and into the Marin Headlands, those beautiful swells of untouched land on the other side. It's less than 2 miles and should take less than an hour to complete. It's wheelchair friendly with a ramp from the Visitors Center. And then you get bragging rights for crossing one of the most recognized bridges in the world!