Top Spots in and near Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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Burlingame, California
Bayside Park to Robert E Woolley State Park Loop is a loop trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Burlingame, California.
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Burlingame, California
4.0
1.42 mi
/ 295 ft gain
This hike can be done at any time of year. Hiking in winter and spring means that many varieties of wildflowers will be present, and the creek will have much more water. Summer and fall mean higher temperatures and drier conditions, but the hike is still a pleasant experience.
Begin the hike at ...
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Half Moon Bay, California
5.0
1.22 mi
/ 518 ft gain
Starting at the parking lot adjacent to Gray Whale Cove State Beach, proceed to the start sign indicating "Grey Whale Cove Trail".
GWCT is a fun brisk hike with slight elevation gain that should be easy enough to take a small group or even children to. Take note of the tight spaces you may encou...
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Half Moon Bay, California
4.5
2.23 mi
/ 367 ft gain
Gray whale cove trail is a splendid, short, and easy hike for the entire family with beautiful ocean views. The starting point is conveniently located near a parking lot that accesses Montara State Beach. From the south end of the parking lot, follow the trail up through the coastal scrub. Within...
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Half Moon Bay, California
4.3
7.22 mi
/ 1929 ft gain
NOTE: as of 2019, North Peak has been fenced off around the installation of a radio tower and weather station. Additionally, the summit has been found to be a habitat for the endangered San Bruno elfin butterfly.
The Gray Whale Cove State Beach is a popular seaside trail that’s just 20 minutes s...
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Burlingame, California
4.0
1.45 mi
/ 331 ft gain
Nestled within Burlingame, California, the Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop offers hikers a serene escape into nature. This approximately 1.5-mile loop meanders through diverse landscapes, including mixed woodlands and grasslands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying native ...
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Half Moon Bay, California
McNee Ranch to Planet of the Apes is a 4.8 mile trail located near Montara State Beach that offers ocean views when it is not too cloudy. You can get amazing views when you hike up above the clouds. This hike follows one of the main trails up the mountain, but there are many smaller trails to e...
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Oakland, California
5.0
8.04 mi
/ 1194 ft gain
It’s difficult to have a car in San Francisco, but oh-so worth it when it comes to weekend getaways, especially with all the Bay Area has to offer. This is a super accessible trail system just 30 minutes outside of the city that makes for a fun, easy trail run or hike.
Redwood Regional Park, par...
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Novato, California
5.0
3.78 mi
/ 157 ft gain
North Levee Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Novato, California.
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Lafayette, California
Lafayette Reservoir is perfect for canoeing, mountain biking, trail running, and hiking. The Reservoir trail system is also used for nature walks and birding. The loop has several high points that have amazing views. The trails become very muddy after wet weather - so tread with caution.
Th...
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Novato, California
5.0
4.87 mi
/ 1234 ft gain
Start at the wide gravel parking lot. You will find the start of the San Andreas Fire Road on the south side leading up the mountain.
The San Andreas Fire Road heads up the southern slope before joining the Middle Burdell Fire Road and then very quickly the Deer Camp Fire Road. Keep your eyes p...
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Point Reyes Station, California
4.0
14.45 mi
/ 2812 ft gain
Embark on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore with the Meadow Trail and Sky Trail to Coast Trail loop. This approximately 10.8-mile hike offers adventurers a blend of lush forests, open meadows, and breathtaking coastal vistas, making it a must-...
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Moss Beach, California
Located beside a residential neighborhood, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve offers a rare glimpse of life in the northern California intertidal zones. There are parking spaces and restrooms available, as well as ranger-led guided tours.
Be sure to check the tide charts and go during low tide (preferab...
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Point Reyes Station, California
5.0
16.18 mi
/ 2818 ft gain
Permit and Trail Camp Info
To stay overnight in Point Reyes, you must stay at one of the Trail Camps. Camping anywhere else in the park is not allowed.
Permits for the Trail Camps can be booked up to 6 months in advance. If you are looking to go on a weekend, then you'll want to start loo...
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Moss Beach, California
4.5
0.79 mi
/ 105 ft gain
The Cypress Tree Tunnels are a quick jaunt from San Francisco (22 miles) and make for a great half-day trip. Getting here depends on traffic, but 30 minutes from the center of the city is doable. Parking is relatively easy. You can either park at the south end of the area at the Cypress Cove entr...
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Vallejo, California
This old Naval Base is now home to, well, almost nothing. As a weekend volunteer trip, myself and about 50 others got a little dirty creating 3 new campsites for you and your friends!During the day, the island has hikers exploring everywhere, but the preserve closes upon sunset and it's just you ...
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