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The Bay Area's 6 Best Hikes With A View

Explore the best of the Bay.

By: Liam McNally + Save to a List

The Bay Area is full of stunning natural scenery from rugged coastline to rolling hills, but it can be tough to see much of it from sea level. And that is why we hike. Whether you walk to the top of a hill in the park or to the peak of Mt. Diablo, getting a bird's eye view of your surroundings reminds us of how big and beautiful the Bay Area really is. Get outside and see the Bay from above with six of our favorite hikes with a view.

1. Epic Coastal Views in Marin

Make the quick hike (we’re talking 5 minutes) to the Muir Beach Overlook and take in the beauty of the Marin County coastline. On a clear day, you can see San Francisco’s Sutro Tower, Mount Tam, and out to the Farallon Islands. Learn More.

2. Hike to San Francisco's Highest Peak

Contrary to popular belief, Twin Peaks is not the highest peak in San Francisco - Mt. Davidson holds the title proudly and offers epic city views if you make the short hike to the top. Bring your pooch (and a leash)! Learn More.

3. Summit Mt. Diablo

At 13 miles round trip and 3,323 feet of elevation gain, this hike is more of a commitment, but the views and bragging rights for reaching one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area will make it all worth while. Learn More.

4. Sunrise on Windy Hill

Windy Hill is a favorite of the South Peninsula and has a ton of trail options. Take a quick hike to catch the sunrise before work or spend a Saturday exploring the area. Learn More.

5. Sweeping City Views In Bernal Heights

This is a great micro-adventure for that weeknight escape. Walk to the top of a grassy hillside and take in the sun setting on the San Francisco skyline. Learn More.

6. Bay Views From Angel Island's Mt. Livermore

Take the ferry to Angel Island and hit the trail on this 5-mile loop for 360 degree views of the bay area. Learn More.

Discover more adventures in the Bay Area here.

You don't want you or your date to go hungry on the trail. Check out these tasty snacks from our friends at Chowhound: 7 Trail Mix Recipes to Get Your GORP On

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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