{"id":42841,"date":"2022-05-04T12:30:00","date_gmt":"2022-05-04T19:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=42841"},"modified":"2023-10-05T13:59:41","modified_gmt":"2023-10-05T20:59:41","slug":"best-bay-area-hikes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-bay-area-hikes","title":{"rendered":"Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"cb-itemprop\" itemprop=\"reviewBody\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you\u2019re looking for an excursion along coastal bluffs or hoping to head to the hills, the Bay Area has a trail for you. With hundreds of hiking opportunities within striking distance of San Francisco, tourists and locals alike will love the assortment of trails to choose from.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thanks to its unique variety of terrain, the Bay Area is a hiker&#8217;s dream. An exploration in close proximity to the coast makes for remarkable views of the ocean; hikes through the lush redwood forests offer shade and enchantment; and a trip to the hills provides a mix of open grasslands and forest with far-reaching views of the surrounding area. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/parks.smcgov.org\/devils-slide-trail\"><b>Devil\u2019s Slide Trail<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Pacifica, Calif.; 18 miles south of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 2.5 miles round-trip, out and back<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Easy<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: An accessible side trip along the coast<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re dreaming of a mellow stroll along the coast, this is an easy-to-access jaunt from a pull-off along Highway 1. This paved, multiuse path along the old and now repurposed Highway 1 offers outstanding views of the ocean and is an excellent place to take the whole family. There&#8217;s free parking at both ends of the trail, and you can hike it in either direction. Though mapped as a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike, you can easily cut this short, hiking only as far as your group wants to go. From the north, the trail winds through coastal hills but quickly reaches the bluffs over the Pacific Ocean. Once on the bluffs, you\u2019ll have views of the sea and, if you\u2019re lucky with the weather, the Farallon Islands and Point Reyes. With abundant wildlife like coastal birds, seals and whales, kids and naturalists will relish this hike. There are benches on the side of the path if you want a break along the way, and the occasional interpretive sign offers up information about the area. All in all, this is a nice side trip to stretch your legs and enjoy the sunshine.<\/span><!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/muwo\/planyourvisit\/hike.htm\"><b>Panoramic Loop<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Mill Valley, Calif.; in Muir Woods National Monument, 16 miles northwest of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 4.5-mile loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Easy\/Intermediate<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A fun hike with the family<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b>No dogs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re looking for a slightly longer hike that traverses the lush forest of the coastal Bay Area, then the Panoramic Loop is for you. The hike winds through both the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/muwo\/index.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muir Woods National Monument<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=471\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mount Tamalpais State Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. With interpretive programs and tree talks offered by the park service, there is plenty to do and learn about while in the area. Plus, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/muwo\/learn\/kidsyouth\/beajuniorranger.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Junior Ranger Program and the Muir Woods Discovery Quest<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will surely keep the kiddos entertained. Keep in mind that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gomuirwoods.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">parking and shuttle reservations<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are required when visiting Muir Woods National Monument, so you\u2019ll have to plan ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Park at the Muir Woods Lower Annex parking area and head out on the paved <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Redwood Creek Trail,<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> passing the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parksconservancy.org\/services\/muir-woods-visitor-center\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muir Woods Visitor Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in about 0.2 miles. After about 0.6 miles, you\u2019ll hike through the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cathedral Grove<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an impressive grove of redwood trees. This trail can be quite busy, but there are plenty of opportunities to step to the side of the trail or rest on one of the benches and enjoy the majestic surroundings. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After about a mile on the Redwood Creek Trail, take a right onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fern Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. As you venture farther along the fern-lined and prehistoric-feeling path, the crowds fade away. You\u2019ll gradually climb to reach <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lost Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Take a short break here if you need it, as the right turn onto Lost Trail will take you up a rather steep grade. There will be a few roots and obstacles to navigate, but if you watch your footing and take your time, you shouldn\u2019t have any trouble. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you climb, the redwoods thin and the landscape opens up a bit. Taking a left onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Canopy View Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you\u2019ll continue climbing but the grade will mellow as you switchback up to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Panoramic Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Follow the Panoramic Trail a short distance, then take a right onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Redwood Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to begin descending. The trail passes through private property and crosses the road. Here, the path opens up along the aptly named <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sun Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and you\u2019ll be treated to some great views. When you reach <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dipsea Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, take a right and follow the track as it descends the ridge paralleling the road, eventually dropping you back at the parking lot where you started.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pore\/planyourvisit\/tomales_point.htm\"><b>Tomales Point Trail<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Inverness, Calif.; in Point Reyes National Seashore, 58 miles northwest of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 9.8 miles round-trip, out and back<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Easy\/Intermediate<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A pleasant but long outing with stunning views<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pore\/index.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Point Reyes National Seashore<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0is a wonderful place to spend a weekend with the family. With beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife and rich history, the park has appeal for everyone. There are a plethora of trails and hikes, educational programs and ranger-led activities to enjoy, as well as plenty of opportunities to explore and learn about the natural environment of the area. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This out-and-back hike is located in the northwest corner of the park on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pore\/planyourvisit\/tomales_point.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tomales Point<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pore\/planyourvisit\/visitorcenters.htm#CP_JUMP_63132\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bear Valley Visitor Center<\/span><\/a>,<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> head north on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, take a right onto Pierce Point Road and park at the historic <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hikingproject.com\/gem\/79\/pierce-point-ranch-and-tule-elk-preserve\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pierce Point Ranch in the Tule Elk Reserve<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From here, follow the wide doubletrack Tomales Point Trail all the way to its terminus at the Lower Pierce Point Ranch. As the trail winds along the the crest of the point, you&#8217;ll enjoy impressive scenery and likely catch glimpses of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pore\/planyourvisit\/wildlife_viewing_tuleelk.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tule elk<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that roam this area. Though the maintained doubletrack trail ends at the Lower Pierce Point Ranch\u2014there is a well-defined though unmaintained and rather sandy trail that heads all the way out to the tip of the point\u2014the track does become fainter as you get closer to the bluffs. Once at the bluffs, enjoy the views of the ocean and Bird Rock, but stay on the main path; it is dangerous and not recommended to walk along the edge of the bluffs, which can be unstable, especially after wet weather. The way back is easy: Simply follow the same track back to the parking area. Though not a terribly strenuous hike, at almost 10 miles round trip, it is quite long. There is little shade, so come prepared with sunscreen, a hat, water and lunch or a snack. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Quicksilver History Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Almaden Valley, Calif.; in <a href=\"https:\/\/parks.sccgov.org\/santa-clara-county-parks\/almaden-quicksilver-county-park\">Almaden Quicksilver County Park<\/a>, 15 miles south of San Jose <\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 8.0-mile loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Trailgoers looking to brush up on their history<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located south of San Jose, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sccgov.org\/sites\/parks\/parkfinder\/Pages\/AlmadenPark.aspx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Almaden Quicksilver County Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is rich with history and nature. Once the site of a mercury ore mining area, the park is now a recreation hotspot with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, biking and more. The historic landmarks across the park make it easy to turn a simple hike into an educational experience. Plus, there are guided nature and history walks available\u2014just call the park for more information. Time your visit for spring or early summer to enjoy a beautiful array of wildflowers while you learn about the past.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To start your history tour, park at the Hacienda entrance; there is a display of old mining equipment here that is worth a gander on your way in. Begin hiking on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mine Hill Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an old mining road that runs the length of the park. The trail gradually climbs along the hillsides, winding its way up through the woods. You\u2019ll pass several historic sites, including an old tramway and a chimney that was once part of an ore processing furnace. Continue climbing, ignoring several trail intersections, until you reach the<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0April Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Take this detour as it pops out of the woods and offers nice views of the bay and surrounding area. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the trail loops back, you\u2019ll swing by the entrance to the April Tunnel then take a left back onto the Mine Hill Trail; you&#8217;ll soon pass the powder house, where explosives were kept. Take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spur trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the San Cristobal Tunnel\u2014the only tunnel in the park that you can enter and explore. Another <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spur trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> off of the Mine Hill Trail will take you to the Catherine Tunnel entrance. From here, backtrack to the junction with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Castillero Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and follow this open and sunny path, passing several viewpoints and another ore furnace. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Head toward the junction with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hidalgo Cemetery Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which takes you to the old cemetery. Backtracking, take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yellow Kid Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which passes several tunnel entrances as it descends to English Camp, a small development where predominantly British English\u2013speaking miners once lived. Take a right on <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">English Camp Trail <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and descend through a mix of woods and open shrubland back to Mine Hill Trail. A right onto Mine Hill Trail returns you to your car. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=546\"><b>Henry Cowell Park<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Felton, Calif.; in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 32 miles south of San Jose<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 8.4-mile round-trip lollipop loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Those looking for a hike that\u2019s a bit more secluded<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mostly known for its preservation of large stands of coastal redwood trees, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=546\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has abundant recreational opportunities and trails to explore. With camping, biking and hiking trails, interpretive exhibits, wildlife viewing, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/Events\/Search\/?category=&amp;from=&amp;to=&amp;page_id=546\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">park events<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and more, the park is a great place to spend the weekend with the family. You&#8217;ll need to pay a daily vehicle-use fee or present a valid state parks pass. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This hike is located in the park&#8217;s northern Fall Creek Unit and winds through a forest of second-growth redwoods as it passes some old lime kilns. Since no bikes or dogs are allowed in the Fall Creek Unit, the area is much quieter than other areas of the park, though you may still see the occasional hiker or equestrian group. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the parking area off Felton Empire Road, take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bennett Creek Trail <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">north to the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fall Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, staying left at the junction. You\u2019ll begin a very mellow ascent along the trail as it climbs beside Fall Creek. Continue following the trail, crossing the creek several times via bridges; you\u2019ll enjoy sparkling cascades along the lush creek bed as you climb through the towering redwood forest. After a little over 2 miles, you\u2019ll pass the remnants of the Barrel Mill. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you reach the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Big Ben Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, turn left and begin climbing a slightly steeper grade. Reaching the top of this climb, you\u2019ll be at the junction with the\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lost Empire Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the site of the Big Ben Tree, an old, 6-foot-diameter redwood\u2014one of the last original redwoods that stands in this second-growth forest. Most of the old growth was cut down as fuel for the lime kilns dotting the area. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From here, head south on Lost Empire Trail as it descends through the forest to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cape Horn Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. A right onto Cape Horn Trail takes you to the junction with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">South Fork Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which turns left, hairpinning back briefly. Right at this U-turn, take some time to check out the lime kiln ruins, just a short jaunt across the creek. The South Fork Trail ends back at the Fall Creek Trail. From here, head south and follow the trail back to the parking area. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"http:\/\/www.redwoodhikes.com\/Muir\/SteepRavine.html\"><b>Steep Ravine \u2013 Matt Davis Loop<\/b><\/a><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bolinas, Calif,; in Mount Tamalpais State Park, 23 miles northwest of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 7.1-mile loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Exploring the western terrain of the park<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=471\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mount Tamalpais State Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is located along the coast just north of San Francisco and has such varied terrain that lovers of both the beach and woods will enjoy exploring this park. With a range of camping options and hiking, biking and horse trails throughout the park, there is more than enough to keep you occupied for a weekend trip. Plus, the interpretive hikes and astronomy nights put on by the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.friendsofmttam.org\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Friends of Mt. Tam<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are educational and engaging for the entire family.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To access this hike, park at the limited (but free) parking area on Panoramic Highway, just east of Highway 1. From here, head southeast on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hikingproject.com\/trail\/7006592\/dipsea-trail\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dipsea Tra<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">i<\/span><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hikingproject.com\/trail\/7006592\/dipsea-trail\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">l<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as it ascends a small verdant canyon before popping out into an open and shrubby meadow with sweeping views of the ocean. At the junction with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Steep Ravine Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, take a left to head up the trail, which is at times rather steep (as the name implies). <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The trail follows Webb Creek the whole way, so you\u2019ll get to enjoy the sounds of the merrily babbling stream as you hike. Stop to check out the occasional waterfall or cascade as you ascend the canyon surrounded by a flourishing redwood forest. About halfway up the trail, there is a fixed ladder to assist you on a particularly steep section. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the trail climbs out of the canyon, the forest opens up a bit. At the end of Steep Ravine Trail, cross through the parking area and across Panoramic Highway (watch for traffic) to reach <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Matt Davis Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The trail, initially in the woods, stays fairly level for the next 1.5 miles or so. It then pops out of the trees into some open grasslands for about a half-mile where, on clear days, you&#8217;ll have stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hillsides. As you dip back into the woods, the trail steepens significantly, and you\u2019ll navigate numerous switchbacks meant to help ease the grade. The trail ends at Belvedere Avenue. Take a left on the road, then another left to follow Highway 1 east a short distance to where Dipsea Trail branches off to the left. Follow the trail back to your car. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Hamms Gulch &#8211; Spring Ridge Trail Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Portola Valley, Calif.; in Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, 37 miles south of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 7.7-mile loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Adventurous hikers searching for views<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/windy-hill\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Windy Hill Open Space Preserve<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is aptly named and is generally known for its breezy, grass-covered hilltops. When visiting and hiking around this area be sure to bring an extra long-sleeve layer as the wind can make the temperatures feel much cooler than you might expect. Leashed dogs are allowed on most trails in the preserve, making this a great spot to explore with your four-legged friend. Though there is no camping available within the preserve, it\u2019s an ideal area for hiking, flying kites, taking in the views and, if you\u2019re lucky, spotting the occasional hang glider or paraglider pilot soaring with the birds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To begin this hike, use the parking area off Portola Road and head out on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spring Ridge Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The going is pretty straightforward for about a half-mile, but when Spring Ridge Trail makes a sharp left, things can get a little confusing. Stay straight onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spring Ridge Trail Connector<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to its end at <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meadow Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Follow Meadow Trail very briefly to reach <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hamms Gulch Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From here, the going on Hamms Gulch Trail is more obvious. Once you pass <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eagle Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on the left, the path begins to climb\u2014rather steeply at times\u2014toward <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lost Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and Skyline Boulevard. Though there are a few views along the way, most of the trail is well-shaded by the thick woods making this a nice spot on a hot, sunny day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the junction with Lost Trail, turn left; then when you reach the parking lot, jump across to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anniversary Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Anniversary Trail winds around the hill just below the summit, but still has great views. Take a quick side trip on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spur trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to reach the true summit of Windy Hill. From here, you are rewarded with amazing views of the preserve and the Santa Monica Mountains. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing on the Anniversary Trail, you\u2019ll quickly reach another parking area and the start of the Spring Ridge Trail, which you\u2019ll take back down through the preserve. The trail descends a rather steep dirt doubletrack through open grassland and shrubby terrain. As you near the bottom and enter the trees, ignore the side trails and simply follow the Spring Ridge Trail back to the parking lot and your car. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Mount Diablo Four Peaks Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Clayton, Calif.; in Mount Diablo State Park, 36 miles east of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 15.4-mile loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: An adventurous long day with spectacular views<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in the hills of the eastern Bay Area, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=517\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mount Diablo State Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> sits high above the surrounding slopes. Due to its position, the views of the Bay Area from the summit of Mount Diablo are the best on a clear day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many visitors simply beeline it to the top, ignoring the plethora of other activities and opportunities the park has to offer. With camping, hiking trails, family programs and guided tours, the state park is perfect for a day visit with the family or a strenuous hike through the hills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Though there are many trails in the park, this loop takes you around much of the area, summiting four peaks, including Mount Diablo. To begin, park at the end of Regency Drive and hike south on <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Donner Canyon Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a wide fire road that winds along Donner Creek through a mix of grassland and oak forest. The road ascends a somewhat steeper grade as it nears its terminus at the junction of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meridian Ridge Fire Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cardinet Oaks Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. When you turn right onto Cardinet Oaks Road, the views start to open up. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turn right at the junction with <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Olympia Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a singletrack that climbs steeply toward the ridgeline, and continue following it as it turns into <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mount Olympia Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Keep climbing through the open grassland and take <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zipper Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> up a rather steep hill to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">East Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. A left here takes you along a steep grade to the summit of Mount Olympia. At four miles into the hike and with amazing views from the summit, this is an excellent place to take a break. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the summit of Mount Olympia, take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Peak Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which, except for a short initial descent, will climb for about 0.75 mile to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Peak Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Take a left to head to the summit of North Peak. Though this section follows a road, it is quite rugged and steep, but the views are worth it. After taking in the scenery, head back the way you came and continue west on North Peak Road to Prospectors Gap. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Prospectors Gap, take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Peak Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014a different one than you were on earlier\u2014to the Devil\u2019s Elbow and turn right onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Summit Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This will lead you to the summit of Mount Diablo, the visitor center (restrooms and water fountains are available) and some of the best views in the whole region of the Bay Area. This is the highest point along the hike and one of the most popular spots in the park. Since it\u2019s possible to drive to the summit, this area can be rather crowded and you may or may not want to hang around. With one more summit to go, you will have a bit more solitude if you continue on. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the summit, descend through the woods on <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Juniper Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and pass through Juniper Campground to reach <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deer Flat Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The road continues to descend, through open grassland before popping back into the woods. The grade of the road eases a bit as you drop into the trees to reach Deer Flat. From here, head along <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meridian Ridge Fire Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for a short and easy spell to Murchio Gap. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If at this point you are too tired to bag another summit, you can continue straight onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to head back toward your car. Otherwise, take a left onto <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eagle Peak Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This follows a steep-sided ridge trail and summits Eagle Peak, from which you can enjoy views in all directions. When Eagle Peak Trail ends, take a right and follow\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bruce Lee Road<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> briefly to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Back Creek Road;\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the latter descends to Donner Canyon Road where you parked your car. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Eagle Peak Out and Back<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Alamo, Calif.; in Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve, 30 miles east of San Francisco<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 4.2 miles out and back<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A tough hike to outstanding views from Eagle Peak<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebparks.org\/parks\/las_trampas\/default.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is part of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ebparks.org\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">East Bay Regional Park District<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Given its size and location in the hills on the east side of the Bay, the park can feel much more remote and less crowded than other places nearby. There is a great hiking, horseback riding and biking trail system throughout the park, with remarkable views and nature viewing opportunities. If you\u2019re a rock nerd, you&#8217;ll find that the park has a rich geological history, including faults, ancient beaches and even fossils. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To begin this hike, park on Camille Avenue near the junction with Camille Lane. From here, look for the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Las Trampas to Mount Diablo Regional Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and take it heading southeast along Camille Lane. You\u2019ll follow this through the fragrant eucalyptus trees commonly found in the area&#8217;s neighborhoods. Once you leave the residential areas and start to ascend into the hills<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the grade of the trail increases significantly. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll reach the only gate on the hike shortly after passing into Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve and shortly before the trail ends at the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Madrone Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Take a right to follow the wide multiuse Madrone Trail west out of the woods and into a meadow dotted with trees. In less than half a mile, take the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Corduroy Hills Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which branches off to the left. The steep grade of the wide track is significant and sustained, though you shouldn\u2019t encounter too much loose footing along the way. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The trail winds up the ridgeline through open meadow, skirts the edges of the oak woods and passes through more shrubby landscapes as it climbs. The views get better and better, including glimpses of nearby Mount Diablo. About 1.3 miles into the hike, the wide dirt track makes a small loop back on itself, while the Corduroy Hills Trail turns to narrow singletrack, which you will continue on to ascend the ridge. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From here, the grade mellows for a bit, giving your legs and lungs a nice respite. However, it steepens again as it makes its last climb to the ridge, dipping in and out of the the trees. When you near the top of Eagle Peak, there is a short <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spur trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the left that takes you out to explore the summit, where you can enjoy the views. This hike is especially beautiful near sunrise or sunset when the golden-hour sunlight filters through the trees. After enjoying the scenery, return the way you came. <\/span><!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re looking for an excursion along coastal bluffs or hoping to head to the hills, the Bay Area has a trail for you. With hundreds of hiking opportunities within striking distance of San Francisco, tourists and locals alike will love the assortment of trails to choose from. Thanks to its unique variety of terrain, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":26,"featured_media":193845,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[387],"tags":[707,1541],"internal-tag":[1442],"class_list":["post-42841","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hike","tag-hiking","tag-pacific-west","internal-tag-seo"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-bay-area-hikes","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-bay-area-hikes","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-bay-area-hikes"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/Kingman_062922_0018.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/Kingman_062922_0018.jpg?fit=2000%2C1334"},"articleSection":"Hike","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Michelle Flandreau"}],"creator":["Michelle Flandreau"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["hiking","pacific west"],"dateCreated":"2022-05-04T19:30:00Z","datePublished":"2022-05-04T19:30:00Z","dateModified":"2023-10-05T20:59:41Z"},"rendered":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"wp-parsely-metadata\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"headline\":\"Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area\",\"url\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/best-bay-area-hikes\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/best-bay-area-hikes\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/Kingman_062922_0018.jpg?resize=150%2C150\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2022\\\/05\\\/Kingman_062922_0018.jpg?fit=2000%2C1334\"},\"articleSection\":\"Hike\",\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Michelle Flandreau\"}],\"creator\":[\"Michelle Flandreau\"],\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Uncommon Path \\u2013 An REI Co-op Publication\",\"logo\":\"\"},\"keywords\":[\"hiking\",\"pacific west\"],\"dateCreated\":\"2022-05-04T19:30:00Z\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-05-04T19:30:00Z\",\"dateModified\":\"2023-10-05T20:59:41Z\"}<\/script>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/rei.com\/p.js"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2022\/05\/Kingman_062922_0018.jpg?fit=2000%2C1334","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42841","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/26"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=42841"}],"version-history":[{"count":30,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42841\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":193847,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42841\/revisions\/193847"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/193845"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=42841"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=42841"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=42841"},{"taxonomy":"internal-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal-tag?post=42841"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}