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Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California

Looking for the best running in Big Basin Redwoods State Park? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Running Spots in and near Big Basin Redwoods State Park

  • Pacifica, California

    Mori Point Loop

    4.8
    2.54 mi / 276 ft gain
    Start at the parking lots close to the pier, where bathrooms are also available. Walk along the pier to watch the sunset as it begins. Next, walk along Sharp Park Beach to discover the plethora of wild flowers and friendly locals always ready to guide you on your walk. Take the stairs up to the...
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  • Pacifica, California

    Milagra Overlook Trail

    5.0
    2.51 mi / 558 ft gain
    Found 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...
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  • Sunol, California

    Hike the Pleasanton Ridge Trail

    4.3
    6.4 mi / 1443 ft gain
    Pleasanton Ridge Trail is a 6.4 mile loop. The loop is shared by dog walkers, trail runners, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. From the ridge your viewpoints will include Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay.  This hike from the Foothills Staging Area is an excellent introduction ...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Bayview Hill Loop

    4.0
    1.24 mi / 184 ft gain
    Bayview Hill Loop is a loop trail that starts with a paved uphill climb and views of the bay facing toward the East Bay located in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    Lake Merced Loop

    4.7
    4.53 mi / 180 ft gain
    Lake Merced Loop is a loop trail in the southwestern part of San Francisco. This trail is used for running and walking. You'll see plenty of people getting exercise or taking their dog for a stroll. There are also benches and tables around the loop. The lake itself is fresh water and is used for...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Fort Funston Trail

    4.7
    1.81 mi / 253 ft gain
    Fort Funston is an SF gem I discovered when looking for a dog friendly hike near the city. Located west of Lake Merced, you'll find a gorgeous Northern California beach oasis where you and your dog can run wild and free :). Parking is located at the top of the park where you'll descend a steep se...
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  • Livermore, California

    Hike the East Shore Trail Loop

    3.7 mi / 1040 ft gain
    This hike is best done during the spring, fall, or winter when moderate temperatures make the hike more comfortable. Be warned that this hike has a large elevation change despite being less than 4 miles. Starting at the Arroyo Road Staging Area, take the East Shore Trail east, heading towards a s...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Mount Davidson

    4.5
    1.03 mi / 299 ft gain
    Mount Davidson Park is located in the southwestern part of the city nestled between Diamond Heights and Portola Dr. The climb isn't too difficult, but to reach the top of the 928ft summit, you should wear close-toed shoes and be ready for some loose gravel or mud if it's been raining. The hike is...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Glen Canyon Park Trail

    5.0
    1.76 mi / 394 ft gain
    Glen Canyon Park Trail is a loop most commonly used for running or hiking in the southwestern side of San Francisco, California. Parking for the loop is street parking, so be sure to take any valuables out of the car with you.  Note: There are restrooms available at the Glen Canyon Recreation Ce...
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  • Marina, California

    Surf, Run, or Catch a Sunset at Marina State Beach

    From the moment you turn into the parking lot, you know Marina State Beach is special. Grab a parking spot in the large lot and then run down the dunes and onto the shoreline! The beach feels spacious on this section of the shore and gives plenty of room to run around or to put down a blanket to ...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Twin Peaks Loop

    4.0
    2.04 mi / 259 ft gain
    There are a ton of ways to get here (and obviously that can affect the total distance) but this is starting from Clarendon. Follow along up Twin Peaks boulevard where you'll see the peaks upon your approach. Keep an eye out for traffic as there may be visitors driving toward and away from Twin Pe...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Grand View Park ("Turtle Hill")

    5.0
    0.21 mi / 7 ft gain
    A recipe for happiness in the "cool grey city of love." To the seasoned San Franciscan there is no finer view in the Bay Area than that from San Francisco's front porch, Turtle Hill or "Grand View Park". If the North American continent / plate is a ship, then Grand View Park is the prow giving e...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Fairy Gates Trail

    5.0
    0.89 mi / 328 ft gain
    Fairy Gates Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you through a nice forest located near San Francisco, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    16th Avenue Tiled Steps

    4.6
    0.09 mi / 79 ft gain
    The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps also known as the Moraga steps are an impressive community achievement, and an equally killer workout. Take an easy lap up the stairs to check out the amazing art, take in the views from the top, then get down to business. You'll be glad you made the trek over to this ...
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  • Pacific Grove, California

    Spanish Bay Trail

    5.0
    2.8 mi / 78 ft gain
    Spanish Bay Trail is an out and back trail that takes you past scenic views located near Monterey, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    Twin Peaks and Mt. Sutro Loop

    4.2
    6 mi
    Are you thinking, hit up two of the bigger peaks in SF, what a great idea? Well, you thought right! The first mile and a half is uphill as you charge to the top of Twin Peaks. This 6% grade leads to a 460 ft elevation gain. The good news is, if it's not foggy, the views of the bay are stunning, e...
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