Albany, California
Albany, California is a top spot for the best trails and outdoor activities. The Albany Bulb is a must-visit for scenic views of the San Francisco Bay, unique art installations, and a variety of bird species. The trail difficulty varies from easy to moderate, suitable for all ages. Another highlight is the Albany Hill Park, with its winding trails leading to panoramic views of the bay and a unique eucalyptus forest. For those seeking water-based adventures, the Albany Waterfront Trail offers a chance to observe marine life and enjoy kayaking. For a more relaxed outdoor activity, the Jewel's Terrace Park offers a beautiful rose garden and picnic spots. These attractions make Albany a great destination for outdoor adventures.
Top Spots in and near Albany
-
Stinson Beach, California
Cataract Falls
4.22.81 mi / 1184 ft gainThe Bay Area is home to many beautiful waterfalls, but Cataract Falls located about an hour north of San Francisco is one of the most stunning. Be sure to head out on this hike after a recent rain. Cataract Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Mt. Tamalpais Watershed near Stinson Beac...Read more -
Stinson Beach, California
Cruising Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California
4.8Start your drive on US Highway 1 aka Pacific Coast Highway just North of San Francisco. The drive will take about 1 -2 days so plan on overnighting somewhere. Hotels are scarce in the unpopulated areas but there all lots of Cabin rentals throughout and several campgrounds around. Just make sure y...Read more -
Stinson Beach, CaliforniaBouldering & BBQ at Stinson
4.5Stinson offers up a great beach day with a few activities for everyone to enjoy. If you head toward the south end of the beach, you'll come across a few boulder problems, including the 2 most popular: Are You Experienced and The Old Man. Are You Experienced is the smaller of these 2 boulders, but...Read more -
Stinson Beach, California
Stinson Beach
4.3Stinson beach is a popular destination for Bay Area residents and tourists alike. Located just 20 miles north of San Francisco, it is a 30-40 min drive away from the Golden Gate Bridge (it's a one-lane windy road once you're on HWY 1). It is also a popular stop when hiking the nearby Mount Tama...Read more -
Novato, California
Buck Gulch Falls Trail
4.91.26 mi / 203 ft gainBuck Gulch Falls (also known as Fairway Falls) is an easy, scenic hike that takes you through a beautiful forest on your way to a 15-foot waterfall. This little neighborhood treasure is tucked away in Novato, CA at the end of Fairway Drive and there is ample parking near the trailhead. If you v...Read more -
Clayton, California
Mount Diablo Summit Loop
4.413.12 mi / 3579 ft gainMt. Diablo has some of the most expansive views in California, despite it's relatively low peak elevation. It played a large role in the surveying the Bay Area during its early discovery. Getting There: To get to the staging area, take Interstate 80 to I-680 to Highway 4. Exit at Railroad Bou...Read more -
Pacifica, California
Milagra Overlook Trail
5.02.51 mi / 558 ft gainFound this hike with some friends after spending some time googling in my car when we were in the area looking for a quick hike with a view! Dog friendly Free parking (but quite limited) Ocean views Known to have gorgeous wildflower blooms (we were not there during this)Porta-potty type toilet...Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Camp at Juniper Campground in Mount Diablo SP
Mount Diablo's summit in Mount Diablo State Park rises to 3,848ft, with Juniper Campground in Mount Diablo SP is at approximately 3,000ft in elevation. Juniper Campground overlooks the valley below and some of the San Francisco Bay. Reservations for Juniper Campground can be made at Reserveamer...Read more -
San Bruno, California
Live Oak to Buckeye and Quail Loop
4.01.03 mi / 148 ft gainLive Oak to Buckeye and Quail Loop is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels located near San Bruno, California.Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Juniper to the Summit Loop Trail and Meridian Ridge
6.56 mi / 2037 ft gainJuniper to the Summit Loop Trail and Meridian Ridge is a loop trail that is strenuous located near Diablo, California.Read more -
Danville, California
Summit Mount Diablo via Rock City Trail
5.07.8 mi / 2299 ft gainAlthough steep in sections, this trail is a wonderful workout and hikers are more than rewarded for their efforts. The Rock City Trail is a direct route to the summit of Mount Diablo, and the park is an ecological treasure dear to the hearts of Bay Area residents. The best views are on clear days...Read more -
Danville, California
Hike in Mount Diablo's Madrone Canyon
2.8 mi / 550 ft gainThis hike starts at the Rock City area of Mount Diablo State Park. Begin at the Madrone Canyon Trail, hiking southeast towards the Devils Slide trail. Along this section of the hike, the trail dips into a wooded canyon and follows the path of a small creek. To best experience the beauty of the cr...Read more -
Novato, California
Schwindt, Indian Valley, and Waterfall Trail Loop
3.51 mi / 594 ft gainSchwindt, Indian Valley, and Waterfall Trail Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Novato, California.Read more -
Clayton, California
Hike the Waterfalls of Mount Diablo Loop Trail
5.06 mi / 1627 ft gainWinter and spring rains create scenic waterfalls in this hike at Mount Diablo, the East Bay's signature peak. Be careful hiking immediately post-rain, watch for slippery sections of mud. The trail is moderately difficult and is used by hikers, walking groups, trail runners, and for nature trips. ...Read more -
San Bruno, California
Sweeney Ridge via Sneath Lane
4.53.88 mi / 646 ft gainStarting from the parking lot on Sneath Lane Trail, you’ll head through the gate and continue on the path up Sweeney Ridge. This is a 5.7 mile out-and-back trek. There is a 600 ft. elevation gain, which comes mainly in the first 1.5 miles of the trail. Your legs and lungs may hurt a bit, but if t...Read more -
Pacifica, California
Picnic at Sharp Park Beach
4.0A medium size beach with darker sand with big rocks and a paved path for walkers and joggers. The beach is a great place to bring a picnic and watch the sunset. It is located next to Pacifica Pier, which is popular for fishing.Read more
