San Francisco
Buena Vista Park
Year-round
Location: Buena Vista/Haight Streets
Why Go There? Named for spectacular views from its upper slopes, oldest park in San Francisco features secluded, winding trails and one of the city’s few remaining coast live oak groves. The drainage gutters alongside some of the trails, paths above the playground areas are filled with old marble unclaimed headstones, visible if not covered with leaves, debris. They were repurposed after San Francisco removed all the cemeteries within its limits between 1914- 1940, except the San Francisco National Cemetery in the Presidio and the cemetery at Mission Dolores.
More Information: Buena Vista Park
Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve
Year-round
Location: South of UC San Francisco Medical Center, several limited parking trailheads: Edgewood Avenue; Stanyon Street; Nike Road/Behr
Why Go There? A hilly parcel of land including 908 foot Mount Sutro was planted with eucalyptuses by its namesake owner Adolf Sutro in the 1880's. 61 acres were subsequently purchased and designated a reserve by the University of California. The forested space, along with 12 additional city-owned acres provides winding walking-only and multi-use trails, a restored habitat meadow, planted irises and other flowers, an opportunity to hear many bird species, smell foliage often wet from fog and a respite from usual city noises.
More Information: Mt. Sutro + Sutro Map
Portola Garden Tour
September
Location: Varies
Why Go There? Annual September Saturday tour of 25 private and public gardens; raises funds for college student scholarships
More Information: Portola Garden Tour + Facebook
Twin Peaks
Year-round
Location: Near Diamond Heights
Why Go There? Wonderful 360 degree view on clear days, second highest point in San Francisco. Feel like a real local, get some exercise and walk up to the top, rather than take a bus, taxi or fight for limited parking spaces. Popular so expect lots of people at the top (early morning less people, unless there is a special event going on). Access: Walk from many side streets; public transportation
More Information: SF Recreation & Parks + Choisser (one person’s directions)
Additional Resources
SF City Guides
Exists with the purpose to preserve the history and folklore of San Francisco while celebrating the city’s rich history of cultural diversity
Bay Area Hiker
Website lists many hikes, with photos, trailhead descriptions, assembled by avid hiker, author Jane Huber
Starr King Open Space Preserve Potrero Hill
23rd/Carolina Street to 24th/De Haro, offers a view, wildflowers; annual block party with live piano music, beer, food (September)
Transit and Trails
Interactive resource public transportation to access trails