Hiking

Taking to the trails is a fantastic way to discover all that the Golden Gate National Parks have to offer, from breathtaking vistas and historical treasures to immense redwoods and intimate wildlife encounters.

With more than 250 trails that wind through more than 140 miles of national park land from Marin to San Mateo, you are sure to find many favorites. Select a featured hike from the list below, and be sure to check back often as we're adding new hikes all the time!

 

Know Before You Go

Safety Tips

• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back

• Bring plenty of food and water—even on short hikes

• Don’t force fluids—drink when you are thirsty

• Eat often—salty snacks are key for salt loss from sweating

• Rest in the shade

• Plan ahead and avoid hiking between 10am and 5pm during the summer

• Stay on shore, many coastal shorelines are rocky and experience rip tides

• View updates on current trail closures and reroutes >> 

10 Hiking Essentials

1. Water - plain and some with electrolyte replacement.

2. Food - especially salty foods. Eat twice as much as normal.

3. First Aid Kit - band aids, ace wrap, antiseptic, moleskin, etc.

4. Map - print at home, download via NPS app, or grab one at any visitors center

5. Pack - to carry the essentials.

6. Flashlight/Spare Batteries - allows you to hike out during the cool of the evening.

7. Spray Bottle - fill with water for your own personal air conditioning system.

8. Sun Protection - hat and sunscreen to keep the sun off you and protect your skin.

9. Whistle and/or Signal Mirror - for emergency use.

10. Waterproof Clothing - poncho or jacket; especially useful during rainy winter season (December to early March).

 

Northern Trails

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  Explore the Marin Headland's history

  Batteries Loop Trail

  The Batteries Loop Trail takes in sweeping views of the Pacific, the colorful sands of Rodeo Beach, historic coastal defenses.

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  Dias Ridge Trail

  The Dias Ridge trail climbs up from the Muir Beach to offer great views of the Pacific Ocean

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  Fisherman's Trail

  Hike down to the remote Black Sands Beach. From here you can see great views of the Golden Gate. This beach is popular with fishermen.

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  Panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean

  Gerbode Valley Loop

  This multi-use trail provides a challenging hike through coastal chaparral and grasslands

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  Muir Woods Main Trail

  Take a walk amidst the ferns and beneath the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument.

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  Walk along the continent’s edge

  Point Bonita Lighthouse Trail

  Harbor seals, up close geology and views of the Pacific can all be seen from this trail.

 

Southern Trails

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  Coastal Trail

  There are great views to be seen around every corner along this stretch of the Coastal Trail

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  Old Mori Trail

  Take in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal bluffs along the Old Mori Trail.

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  Sneath Lane Trail

  Sneath Lane Trail provides great views of the San Adreas Resovoir and the San Francisco Bay.

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  Milagra Ridge Map

  Want to visit? Click here to download a copy of the Milagra Ridge Trail Map.

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  Crissy Field Promenade

  Walk or bike along the Crissy Field Promenade to take in views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate