Top Spots in and near Golden Gate National Recreation Area
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Inverness, California
Point Reyes Secret Beach, Amphitheater and Cathedral is located in Point Reyes National Seashore near Limantour Beach. This is an out-and-back coastal hike along the beach, which will shrink as the tide comes up. It is best to arrive at the Crater and Amphitheater when the tide is going out close...
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Inverness, California
The entire drive to Pt. Reyes is picturesque, but once you make it to Limantour, you and your dog can both get out and enjoy it! This area, between Drake's Bay and an estuary, allows you to spend time relaxing or head out for a run (keep the dog on leash). If you're lucky you might either get a c...
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Moraga, California
Las Trampas Regional Wilderness offers an extensive trail system for hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers. The trail is open year round and dogs are allowed. The Las Trampas and Bollinger faults spread apart to reveal a wonderful wilderness area with ancient remnants of beaches. The entir...
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Half Moon Bay, California
This is a great way to destress and have fun! Goat yoga is like normal yoga, but with goats. Goats tend to like higher ground and flat surfaces. So, when you are in table top position, they are highly likely to jump onto your back! These goats are still young, and so do not weigh as much as f...
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Walnut Creek, California
Sugarloaf Open Space Loop is an almost 2-mile loop for hiking, running and walking. This trail is relatively easy and takes under one hour to hike. This loop is dog friendly.
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Half Moon Bay, California
If you love to log as much water time as possible, this little gem is the campsite for you. Half Moon Bay State Beach is actually four smaller beaches, with a total of two miles of sandy shore, but you'll be camping right at Kelly Ave., one of Half Moon Bay's most consistent surf spots. Keep in m...
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Half Moon Bay, California
4.6
5.51 mi
/ 220 ft gain
Start at the visitor center along Kelly Avenue. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2024 for each vehicle. You will then be able to enjoy both the Coastside Trail and Francis Beach (plus other beaches) with access to the amenities such as coin-operated showers and a semi-private beach.
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Inverness, California
Explore the shipwreck of the S.S. Point Reyes, perched on a sand bar off the shoreline of Tomales Bay. It is located in the small town of Inverness, just behind the grocery store. If you are driving North on Sir Francis Drake Blvd it will be on your right side. Parking is easy and you will see a ...
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Inverness, California
Like camping in remote locations? Love oysters? This is it! Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula.
We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at...
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Petaluma, California
4.0
4.87 mi
/ 673 ft gain
A 216-acre park, Helen Putnam offers 9 trails that are relatively short but can be combined however you wish. Go 2 miles or 10 miles. Loop in and out, up or around. I take a different route every time I hike here.
For a good 4.8-mile hike, begin at the southwest corner, where the parking lot and...
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Petaluma, California
4.0
1.44 mi
/ 236 ft gain
The Helen Putnam Inner Loop is a scenic and relatively short hiking trail located in Petaluma, California. This loop offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and accessibility. This trail is ideal for hikers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a shorter adventure with stunning vistas.
T...
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Redwood City, California
4.0
1.48 mi
/ 289 ft gain
Experience the natural beauty of the San Francisco Peninsula on the scenic Hassler Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile moderately challenging hiking trail nestled in Redwood City's Emerald Hills neighborhood. This beloved local trail offers hikers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers a perfect blend...
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Redwood City, California
3.7
3.83 mi
/ 676 ft gain
Getting there: exit Highway 280 at Edgewood Road, travel .75 miles east, turn left on Crestview Drive, then immediately left again on Edmonds Road.
Once parked, there are several different path options through the park. All of them connect in a large loop, and return to the parking lot. The Cord...
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Petaluma, California
4.5
2.52 mi
/ 348 ft gain
The Helen Putnam Northern Loop is a scenic hiking trail in Petaluma, California, offering a peaceful outdoor experience with breathtaking views and natural charm. This trail is perfect for hikers seeking a blend of gentle exercise and stunning landscapes.
Trail Highlights:
Length & Di...
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Point Reyes Station, California
Named after the famed explorer, Sir Francis Drake, Drakes Beach is part of the scenic Point Reyes National Seashore. If you're looking to spend a day and an evening at the beach, grab some snacks and some firewood and head out to Drakes Beach.
Key things to remember with the bonfire:
Build th...
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Emerald Hills, California
4.0
3.29 mi
/ 607 ft gain
Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve rests in San Mateo County, California. The sweeping hillsides exemplify the true native flora of California, as the foundation of rock and soil is poor in nutrients. Only a few specialized native plants are adapted to live here--don't miss the unique wildflower ...
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