San Rafael, California
San Rafael, California is a true of natural beauty and endless opportunities for exploration. From rustic trails to immersive experiences, the area provides every traveler with a sense of adventure. Its attractions, such as the Marin Headlands, Muir Woods National Monument, and the Point Reyes National Seashore, offer sights that both challenge and reward. Here, magnificent landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities meet to provide a memorable and unique retreat. With so many choices, San Rafael is a must-visit destination for nature-lovers of all kinds.
Top Spots in and near San Rafael
-
Kensington, California
Tilden Little Farm
3.3First make sure to stop at the store and stock up on fresh lettuce and celery for the animals. Your kids (or just the kid in you) will love to feed them! Note that they're only allowed to eat lettuce and celery, so don't try to feed them your own snacks or get creative. ;) If you want to make it...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Climb Beaver Street Wall
5.0Beaver Street Wall is one of the few places to climb in the San Francisco city limits. The 45 ft. tall wall is located in the Corona Heights neighborhood, just north west of Market St. The routes on the wall range from 5.8 to 5.12. The wall features a prominent crack up the center, which makes th...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Fairy Gates Trail
5.00.89 mi / 328 ft gainFairy Gates Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you through a nice forest located near San Francisco, California.Read more -
San Francisco, California
Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve Loop
4.42.14 mi / 617 ft gainThe Mount Sutro Open Space hike is one of those gems that's just hiding in plain site. Most people live in San Francisco for years without ever knowing this hike even exists - which is totally fine with us. This 2+ mile loop is an easy, quick way to get back in touch with nature after a long day....Read more -
San Francisco, California
Corona Heights Park
5.00.65 mi / 115 ft gainCorona Heights Park is a park located north of the Castro and South of Buena Vista Park. The peak of the hill is windy, but it offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the city of San Francisco from downtown to Twin Peaks. It is perfect for taking panoramic pictures of San Francisco at night. Y...Read more -
Point Reyes Station, California
Meadow Trail and Sky Trail to Coast Trail
4.014.45 mi / 2812 ft gainEmbark 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-...Read more -
Point Reyes Station, California
Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop
5.016.18 mi / 2818 ft gainPermit 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...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Vulcan Steps
5.00.18 mi / 79 ft gainVulcan Steps is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Francisco, California.Read more -
San Francisco, California
16th Avenue Tiled Steps
4.60.09 mi / 79 ft gainThe 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 ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Grand View Park ("Turtle Hill")
5.00.21 mi / 7 ft gainA 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...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Twin Peaks Loop
4.02.04 mi / 259 ft gainThere 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...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Tank Hill
4.30.14 mi / 49 ft gainLooking for a cool, under-the-radar spot that’s perfect for picnics, chilling out, and chasing the sunset? Look no further than Tank Hill. This little gem of a mini-park is 650 feet high and tucked away in Cole Valley. It’s so small that many maps of San Francisco don’t even include it. To get ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Sunset Reservoir
0.69 mi / 62.99 ft gainHidden in the Sunset District, the Sunset Reservoir is more than just piece of city infrastructure — its surrounding paths make for a convenient urban stroll with peaceful views, a solar rooftop, and surprising vistas of San Francisco. Trail & Walk Details Many local walkers estimate the fu...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Seward Street Slides
4.2Tucked away in a small neighborhood park in Eureka Valley is a set of really fun, slippery, and surprisingly steep concrete slides. They were originally designed by a 14 year old kid over 30 years ago, and we all owe him a big hat tip. People use a variety of sliding materials (saucers, food tray...Read more -
Berkeley, California
Hidden Waterfall in Codornices Park
4.00.5 miPark along the street in front of Codornices Park in Berkeley. Follow the stream to the left of the playground. Take the path up the hill to the right (don't head over the bridge on the left). Keep walking up multiple concrete stairs. After the first flight of stairs you'll see a path on the left...Read more -
Berkeley, California
Berkeley Rose Garden
4.0I'm always surprised at how few people know of this beautiful garden. I'm often alone when I visit, which allows for perfect serenity. Visit in early spring for maximum blooms. Park on Euclid Ave, which is where you'll find the entrance to the amphitheater (you can't miss the giant sign). Spend ...Read more