The best city hikes and walks in San Bruno Mountain State Park
4.8
(105)
3,151
hikers
126
hikes
Hiking in San Bruno Mountain State Park offers diverse urban hiking trails within a unique natural setting. Located at the northern end of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the park features elevations ranging from 250 feet to 1,314 feet at its summit. The landscape is characterized by coastal scrub, grassland, and oak woodland habitats, supported by a geological composition of serpentine greywacke and sandstones. This area is recognized for its "Franciscan Landscape," providing a habitat for various plant and animal species.
β¦Last updated: October 10, 2026
10
hikers
2.94km
00:45
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
8.81km
02:15
30m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(6)
101
hikers
33.3km
09:06
530m
520m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
If you want to avoid the Bayview Hill between SF and SSF go through Candlestick Park. As others have noted, lots of fun gravel trails you can ride with the surface being compact and smooth. Take care however, the trail can get a bit sandy and loose in small parts. You can avoid the dirt and follow the road until you reach the top of the hill and pass the white barricades. There is space between them for cyclists to pass. The road is bumpy but car free. You can also choose to ride through the parking lot which is better paved but always take care with cars.
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Worth the walk, even in the wind. Beautiful landscape, cool trees, watch planes, watch fishermen, sit a spell and enjoy the view. Better yet, bring a bite to eat and have lunch. To the North is SF, to the South is Foster City and the arch of the San Mateo Bridge.
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Solar Totems informational plaque at the Glen Canyon Recreation Center : Artist: Charles Sowers, American, b. 1966. Solar Totems 2017 Reclaimed redwood logs, lens, solar power, heliograph mechanism Solar Totems is an installation of three 12-foot-tall reclaimed redwood logs with a solar powered mechanism mounted to the south face. The sunβs rays are focused by a lens, which lightly burns into the wood. As the sun moves across the sky, the burn becomes a line; preserving a record of sunshine periodically broken by fog or cloudy skies. The lens is advanced a small distance each day to create a distinct daily line. The mechanism records one year of daily atmospheric conditions. When the yearly record is complete, the mechanism is moved to another log, leaving a sculptural archive of daily variations in sunlight that park visitors can use to compare regional weather patterns from year to year. The artwork turns the plaza into a kind of civic, solar and atmospheric observatory, artistically expanding our understanding of place and connecting us to our environment through that understanding. Collection of the City and County of San Francisco Arts Commission SFAC
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Take moment to appreciate the shimmer on the water. The Bay Trail gets you really close to enjoy sweeping views, fresh breeze and relaxing water sounds. Benches and picnic tables make for a great rest stop during long rides.
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St. Maryβs College (now located in Moraga, California) was located on this College Hill, 200 feet and served as its namesake. The hill was physically carved in two by the Bernal Cut, which is now San Jose Ave
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Great spot for panoramic views of the bay, and the mountain ridges on both sides sides, not at sunrise. Popular Popular with anglers
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From this spot along the Bay Trail you'll have an excellent view at any time of day, but sunsets are particularly beautiful.
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From here you have a great view over the 408-birth Oyster Point Marina. The marina consists of a fuel dock, fishing pier, and boat launch. The area around the marina has hiking and jogging trails, picnic areas, and sandy beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
San Bruno Mountain State Park offers a wide variety of urban hiking trails, with over 140 routes to explore. These include more than 90 easy trails, around 45 moderate options, and a few challenging paths for experienced hikers.
Are there family-friendly urban hiking options in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Yes, San Bruno Mountain State Park has several trails suitable for families. Many of the easy routes are perfect for all ages. For example, the park's 0.8-mile Bog Loop is ideal for families and birdwatching, winding through diverse plant communities. You'll find plenty of accessible paths through the park's lower elevations.
Are dogs allowed on the urban hiking trails in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in San Bruno Mountain State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations or park signage before heading out, as rules can vary.
What kind of views can I expect on urban hikes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Urban hikes in San Bruno Mountain State Park offer breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. From the summit, you can enjoy expansive vistas north to Mt. Tamalpais, south to Mt. Diablo, east to the Oakland foothills, and west to the Farallon Islands on clear days. Many trails, like the Summit Loop, are known for these outstanding views.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Yes, the park features several excellent circular routes. For instance, the Former Liberty Ship Wharf loop from Oyster Point Marina Park is an easy 3.7 km loop, while the Point San Bruno Park β Bay water view loop from South San Francisco offers a moderate 8.5 km experience with bay views.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along the urban hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several interesting points. The summit itself offers incredible views and the remains of an old Nike Missile early warning radar site. You can also visit San Bruno Mountain State & County Park, or enjoy the View of San Francisco from Radio Road. The park also has picnic sites near the entrance.
What is the best time of year to hike in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Spring is particularly magnificent for hiking in San Bruno Mountain State Park, as it brings spectacular displays of wildflowers like lupines, California poppies, and Indian paintbrush. The weather is generally pleasant year-round, but clear days offer the best panoramic views.
How can I get to the urban hiking trailheads using public transport?
San Bruno Mountain State Park has various neighborhood access points, including Crocker Road and Charter Street, which can be reached via public transport. While specific bus routes vary, the park's proximity to urban areas means several public transit options can get you close to trailheads. It's best to check local transit schedules for the most current information.
Is there parking available at the urban hiking trailheads?
Yes, trailheads are conveniently located at the park's main entrance, at the summit via Radio Road, and through various neighborhood access points. Parking is generally available at these designated areas. Always check for any parking fees or restrictions upon arrival.
What kind of wildlife can I spot on urban hikes in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
San Bruno Mountain is a critical habitat for a wide variety of birds and animals. It's especially known for housing several rare and endangered plant and butterfly species, including the San Bruno Elfin, Mission Blue, Callippe Silverspot, and Bay Checkerspot butterflies. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and other small mammals.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in San Bruno Mountain State Park?
The komoot community highly rates San Bruno Mountain State Park, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views, the diverse landscapes, and the unique ecological significance of the area, especially the beautiful wildflower displays in spring.
Are there any accessible urban hiking trails for people with mobility challenges?
While the park features rugged terrain in many areas, some of the lower elevation trails and paved sections may offer more accessible options. The 3.8-mile San Bruno Mountain loop from Daly City is described as an easy trail, offering accessible paths. For detailed accessibility information, it's recommended to contact the park directly or visit the California State Parks website.
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