Day Trips from San Francisco
← All San Francisco day tripsDay Trips from San Francisco: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of San Francisco, CA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near San Francisco
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Guerneville, CA 95446
Just 1 hr 36 min from San Francisco, rated 4.9 stars by 4,792 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Castle Rock State Park
Los Gatos, CA 95033
Just 1 hr 9 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 2,816 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mount Tamalpais State Park
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Just 35 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 3,093 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
San Jose, CA 95127
Just 1 hr 11 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 3,000 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Aptos, CA 95003
Just 1 hr 26 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 1,467 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
CA 94019, USA
Just 37 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 1,823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
USA
Just 1 hr 14 min from San Francisco, rated 4.8 stars by 5,225 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cosumnes River Preserve
Galt, CA 95632
Just 1 hr 32 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 1,362 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Linda Falls
Angwin, CA 94508
Just 1 hr 31 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
Skyline Blvd, Redwood City
Just 43 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 686 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
San Jose, CA 95120
Just 1 hr 2 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 734 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve
CA 94020, USA
Just 1 hr 1 min from San Francisco, rated 4.7 stars by 306 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from San Francisco
What are the best hiking trails near San Francisco, CA?
The best hikes near San Francisco range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near San Francisco?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near San Francisco offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from San Francisco?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near San Francisco are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near San Francisco?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near San Francisco. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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