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Mt. Livermore via North Ridge Trail

Belvedere Tiburon, California

4.5/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

4.92 miles

Elevation Gain

1178 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Clare Healy

This hike is a moderate 5 mile loop, which begins with a quick ferry ride to Angel Island.

Unless you own a boat or a kayak, this adventure requires a ride on the Blue and Gold Ferry from Pier 41 in San Francisco. But let’s be honest, that’s actually half the fun. Who doesn’t love a ferry ride?

Angel Island State Park is the largest island in the Bay, and recommend the 6-mile loop around the island that combines the North Ridge and Sunset Trails. This route is mostly single track, no bikes allowed, so you’ll avoid most of the other visitors who tend to stay on the perimeter road. This hike will take you to the top of Mt. Livermore, the highest point of the island at 788 ft, and back down to Ayala Cove.

Once you exit the ferry, you’ll stay left and look for the sign marking the North Ridge Trail. Follow the signage up some stairs and across the perimeter road for the official start of the North Ridge Trail.

As you near the summit, there’s a sign for a spur that leads to Mt. Livermore. This final section is not long and there are a number of picnic tables at the summit that provide the perfect spot for you to enjoy your lunch and take in the views of the Alcatraz, The San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate.

Once you’re ready to return, retrace your path and find the Sunset Trail to your right. Follow it all the way back down to the docks at Ayala Cove. Reward yourself on the ferry ride back with a cold beverage of your choosing.

Ferry times vary on the time of year. For a schedule and to buy tickets, click here.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Picnic Area
Scenic

Mt. Livermore via North Ridge Trail Reviews

I did this a long time ago and it was super fun. I need to go back and explore again

I did this a week ago, highly recommend to do it. The views are fascinating and once on top of Mt. Livermore you will experience a very nice 360 view of the bay. I also recommend that if you go, stop by the farmers market on the ferry building early in the morning and take that food for a nice picnic on the island.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Camp on Angel Island

Angel Island Perimeter Loop

Catch the Sunset at Swedes Beach

Headlands Ride to Point Bonita Lighthouse

Vista Golden Gate

Battery Spencer