A right of passage for Bay Area hikers and one of the best trails for views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Lands End trail hides away in the corner of San Francisco but offers outstanding panoramic views looking out to the mighty Pacific Ocean.
The Lands End trail is roughly 3.5 miles as a loop or out-and-back and is considered an easy hike. There are a few sections of steps that may get slippery in rain, and as a result some steps may need modest repairs, but otherwise it’s an easy maintained trail the entire way. Since it’s the Bay Area, there is plenty of rainy weather to impact this hike, so pay attention to conditions. This hike also gets incredibly crowded since it’s within the city. Dogs and runners alike enjoy this trail. When we did this, it took us 1.5 hours. You can stop at a number of viewpoints along this trail to gaze out at the Pacific Ocean, do some yoga or enjoy a snack.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Lands End Trail, search for the Lands End Trailhead in San Francisco, CA or click here.
Directions (old school maps): This hike is located at the northwest corner of San Francisco, and is just a few miles north of Golden Gate Park. Take 34th Avenue north until it turns into Legion of Honor Drive. Being in the city, the traffic and parking situation can be challenging.
Driving Info: Getting to this trailhead is tricky since it’s within the city limits. It’s very likely you’ll encounter congested traffic conditions and a crowded parking lot at the trailhead. Try to leverage public transportation if possible.
Time & Weather: We did this hike on a rainy morning in January. This area is susceptible to lots of rain, wind and possible mudslide conditions so it’s best to pay attention to local weather.
Gear: Since this is the bay area, you may need a rain or wind layer for this hike. If it’s rainy or muddy make sure to have some decent shoes or boots. There is plenty of shade along the route so sunglasses and sunscreen are not always necessary. It’s recommended to bring binoculars on this trail since you can look across the ocean to the Golden Gate Bridge, and if you’re lucky you’ll spot dolphins down below near the shore.
Trail Navigation: This trail is easy to follow, although there are a few trails that weave in and out of the main loop so pay attention. But either way it’s easy enough to hug the coastline and stay on trail.
Water & Food: Bring water and snacks to enjoy the viewpoints, but this is a relatively short and easy hike. You’re also adjacent to the entire city so you’re close to all sorts of amenities.
Trailhead Info: This is a very popular trail with a fairly large parking lot, but it will fill up on weekends on busy weekdays.
Pictures of the Lands End Trail:
Once you park and hit the trailhead you’ll immediately overlook the Sutro Baths, which were a 100 year old swimming complex created in 1894.
One of the staircases that can get potentially slippery or muddy in inclement weather. You’ll ascend into the forest of trees.
Most of this trail is an easy, wide paved trail that accommodates hikers, bird enthusiasts, runners and dog walkers. Gorgeous sprawling trees line the edges of the trail.
As you hug the coastline there are a few areas to explore. This shot of the Golden Gate Bridge runs through the tangled trunk of a beautiful coastal tree.
Looking back the other direction out towards the expanse of the Pacific Ocean. This is pristine coastline attached to one of the busiest and most crowded cities in the world so it’s a welcome reprieve from the congestion.
You’ll get this amazing view a few different times as the trail meanders along the coast. Try to plan a clear day to avoid the fog and you’ll be rewarded with this spectacular view of Golden Gate Bridge.
One of the areas to explore off the trail, this staircase runs down towards the beach where you can get up close and personal with the magnificent Pacific coastline.
This trail is crowded for good reason, and is an easy option for tourists and long-time residents alike. Try to pick a nice clear day so your views are unimpeded, and then plan to grab a meal nearby once you’re finished. It’s in the bay area, so there’s a million wonderful food options nearby.
