California Coastal Trail - San Francisco

The San Francisco portion of the California Coastal Trail offers a pleasant and scenic walk. The route take you through some parks and neighborhoods between  Fort Funston and the Golden Gate Bridge. The 8.8-mile multi-use pathway includes crushed stone surfaces, residential roads, and a bike/pedestrian bridge. On the way, you'll pass by sweeping bay views, the bridge, and Marin Headlands. There are several attractions around this route that you can visit before rejoining your hike, including the Labyrinth and the Sutro Baths. 

There's parking and a trailhead on Point Lobos near the Cliff House. Before starting your trek, check out Seal Rocks just southwest of the pathway. From here, you'll head north past the Sutro Baths and USS San Francisco Memorial. The road tracks along the cliffs here and offers an overlook area where you can watch the waves crashing against the rocky shore below. Continue along the Lands End section of the route, the Sea Cliff development, and Baker Beach. Take the stairs down to the sand and stroll by the water to the other set of steps. North of here, you'll see some old military batteries and another viewpoint where you can see the Golden Gate Bridge. Continue to the pedestrian and bike bridge that leads to Golden Gate. 

Dogs can join their owners on the well-loved path. Make sure they're on a leash at all times. There are some unshaded stretches on the trail where it can get hot. Bring water for you and your pooch. Remember to carry bags and remove your pup's waste when you hike here. 

This part of the Coastal Trail is a hidden gem of San Francisco. The pathway boasts Monterey Cypress trees and native wildflowers. In the Land's End Conservancy, you can spot various birds including Allen's Hummingbird, Townsend's Warbler, and the spotted towhee. From the Cliff House, you can also take the trail south along Ocean Beach toward Fort Funston.