San Ramon, California
One of the best trails and outdoor activities in San Ramon, California is hiking the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness. This must-visit trail offers a challenging hike with a scenic view of the rolling hills and the San Francisco Bay. The trail is 5.7 miles long and is known for its steep, rugged terrain and rock formations. Along the way, you'll see the tranquil Madrone and Chamise creeks, which are home to various wildlife species. For a more leisurely outdoor adventure, visit the Memorial Park, a top spot for picnicking and bird watching. Nearby, you can also find the Iron Horse Regional Trail, a multi-use trail that’s perfect for biking and walking. These outdoor attractions in and near San Ramon provide a great way to enjoy California's natural beauty.
Top Spots in and near San Ramon
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San Francisco, California
Marshall's Beach
4.8If you're looking for one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marshall's Beach gives you just that without the tourist crowds of Baker Beach. This small and hidden beach offers a narrow stretch of sand for those looking to throw a frisbee around or just hang out with friends. As it's tu...Read more -
Sand Ladder, California
Baker Beach Sand Ladder
4.40.25 mi / 138 ft gainThe Baker Beach Sand Ladder is a section of the Pacific Coast Trail that is comprised of 200 ten foot poles tied together to form stairs down to North Baker Beach from Lincoln Blvd. If you’re looking for a lung and butt-busting workout, and you’d like a break from your standard routine, you need...Read more -
Stanford, California
Stanford Dish Loop
4.43.67 mi / 472 ft gainIf you live in the Palo Alto area and are looking for a place to hike or run, The Dish is a close, and great way to get that exercise. Located right on the corner of Stanford Ave and Junipero Serra, you'll see that small gated entrance right when you drive on by. As far as parking goes, you're le...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Baker Beach
4.8If you're looking for a beach that's a little more protected and scenic than Ocean Beach, then Baker Beach is it. Bring a cooler and some burritos out and kick it with your friends. On a sunny weekend day in SF, there's usually a sizable crowd here, so if you need parking, be sure to get here ear...Read more -
Mill Valley, California
Kirby Cove
4.73.01 mi / 774 ft gainThis scenic hike is a 2 mile out-and-back trail located near Sausalito, CA. From the trail and beach, you'll get scenic of the Golden Gate, San Francisco's skyline, and glimpses of the East Bay. The best news, there's rarely any crowd. Consider packing a blanket and a small picnic. With panorami...Read more -
Mill Valley, California
Headlands Ride to Point Bonita Lighthouse
4.3The Headlands are a quick ride over the Golden Gate. On the ride, you'll see wildflowers, rugged coastline, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse. Once you cross the bridge, take Conzelman Rd up ~700 feet to Hawk Hill. From here, continue on to the lighthouse. On the return trip, head back on Conzelman...Read more -
Sausalito, California
Swedes Beach
This is a small tucked away beach in Sausalito, CA. Being in the bay, it has very calm waters and is easy to swim in, though the water will be very cold. There are pilings in the water that are remnants of the old piers. It is a great beach to watch the sunset at. There is very limited street...Read more -
Sausalito, California
Battery Spencer
4.00.47 mi / 46 ft gainThis is a very popular spot to hike up to from Conzelman Road. You can find parking in the lot or on the street and do the quick hike up to Battery Spencer. You can get a perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge and SF from the Marin side of the Bay. This is a unique perspective as you also get the...Read more -
Sausalito, California
Vista Golden Gate
4.3The headlands offer great views of the Golden Gate Bridge, particularly at Vista Golden Gate. You can make the Vista Viewpoint your starting off point to leave your car or if you're riding, just stop in and enjoy the view. This spot allows you to capture views of the Golden Gate as well as Angel ...Read more -
San Francisco, CaliforniaSunset 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, CaliforniaCrab Fishing at China Beach
5.0It's illegal to catch Dungeness Crab inside the bay, but once you reach Baker Beach and China Beach, it's legal to catch 10 per valid fishing license. When you're ready to start your crabbing adventure, head to Gus' Discount Tackle. They'll get you set up with the right equipment (a crab trap, zi...Read more -
Mill Valley, California
Camp at Kirby Cove
4.5Yes, you can camp just over the Golden Gate! Kirby Cove Campground has 4 overnight campsites and 1 picnic area for day use. The campground is set near a coarse-sand beach and offers amazing views of the Golden Gate, as long as it’s not a super foggy SF day. From the parking lot, it's a steep ~1 m...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Lake Merced Loop
4.74.53 mi / 180 ft gainLake 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...Read more -
San Jose, California
North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock
5.01.94 mi / 240 ft gainNorth Rim Trail to Eagle Rock is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Jose, California.Read more -
San Francisco, California
Lands End Trail
4.73.26 mi / 518 ft gainThe Lands End Trail is a 3.26 mile out-and-back hike located in the northwest corner of San Francisco along the city's rugged coastline. Offering spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, and the Pacific Ocean, the hike is one of the most popular trails in San Francisco for ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Mile Rock Beach
4.71.64 mi / 223 ft gainThis rocky, secluded beach is tucked in along the Land’s End Coastal Trail in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Located 100 or so steps down from the main trail, you’ll find this mysterious little beach that will make you feel like you’re in an old pirate movie. There are a lot of logs an...Read more
