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  • Golden Gate National Recreation Area
  • Golden Gate National Recreation Area, California

    Top Spots in and near Golden Gate National Recreation Area

    • Mill Valley, California

      Hill 88 Loop

      4.0
      5.5 mi / 1086 ft gain
      This quick, yet challenging trail run is located just minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Grab your dog (on-leash), park in the large lot next to Rodeo Beach and hit the trail! The climb starts up the Coastal Trail to the right end of the parking lot if you're staring at the beach. Take the...
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    • Mill Valley, California

      Coastal Trail Loop

      2.57 mi / 420 ft gain
      Coastal Trail Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Sausalito, California.
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    • Mill Valley, California

      Coastal Trail from Rodeo Beach to Muir Beach

      11.35 mi / 3264 ft gain
      This hike has beautiful views in the Marin Headlands. You'll find easy parking in the Rodeo Beach Parking lot if you get there early (by 8:30 am). This hike goes along the Coastal Trail which has a few steep areas as you make your way to Tennessee Beach. The Tennessee Beach has gorgeous dark b...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Surf Under The Golden Gate at Fort Point

      4.2
      This has to one of the coolest spots to surf in the world. The break itself is a left point that requires a healthy swell to wrap into the bay, and only gets good on occasion. But when it's good, it can be an experience you'll never forget.It's important to note, that when it's good, this is not ...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito

      4.7
      1.74 mi / 141 ft gain
      Riding your bike or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, and then enjoying some drinks overlooking the bay, is a great way to spend a nice day. The views along the way are simply breathtaking. After your ride and a day of fun in Sausalito, you can return to San Francisco by ferry. ...
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    • Mill Valley, California

      Tennessee Beach via Tennessee Valley Trail

      4.6
      3.64 mi / 266 ft gain
      The Tennessee Valley trail is leisurely 3.6 mile roundtrip hike that turns around at Tennessee Valley Cove. Along the way, you’ll hike past shrublands, wetlands, and a lake before you get to a cool little secluded beach that many people picnic at. This is probably the easiest to access, and most...
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    • Mill Valley, California

      Coyote Ridge Loop

      5.0
      6.15 mi / 1001 ft gain
      Starting just before the Tennessee Valley parking lot, head out from the Miwok Trailhead. This Mill Valley hike offers incredible views of the San Francisco Bay, the Pacific Ocean (fog permitting of course!), and on occasion, wildlife. Unfortunately, this trail is not dog-friendly.  Keep in mind...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Batteries to Bluffs Trail

      4.8
      2.33 mi / 417 ft gain
      The Batteries to Bluffs Trail in the Presidio is a true gem of San Francisco. It has everything you could want in a hike: a sea-side path along the ocean, relatively easy parking, gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and a secluded beach that's perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and enjoying t...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Take in a Sunset on Marshall's Beach

      4.8
      If 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 tuck...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Picnic Beneath the Golden Gate

      4.5
      If the weather forecast looks promising, you could do a lot worse than planning a picnic at the West Bluff Picnic Area in the Presidio. This area is south of Crissy Field (closer to the bridge) and before you get to Fort Point - situated perfectly to give you an amazing view of the Golden Gate, A...
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    • Mill Valley, California

      Oakwood Trail

      5.0
      2.56 mi / 538 ft gain
      Looking to escape the hustle of San Francisco, but don't want to commit to an entire day on the trail? When setting out for this morning hike, be prepared for about 1.5 hour hiking adventure (longer if you stop for extra photos) and a 20 minute commute from San Francisco.   This hike is recomend...
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    • Sand Ladder, California

      Baker Beach Sand Ladder

      4.4
      0.25 mi / 138 ft gain
      The 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...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Camp at the Rob Hill Campground

      5.0
      Rob Hill Campground is a hidden treasure, located at the Presidio’s highest point above Baker Beach amid a beautiful eucalyptus grove. The campsite welcomes groups of all kinds and is also home to the Camping at the Presidio (CAP) program, which provides youth with meaningful outdoor experiences....
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    • San Francisco, California

      Baker Beach

      4.8
      If 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...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Paradise Loop

      4.3
      37.61 mi / 2946 ft gain
      Riding this loop has long been a popular option for San Franciscan riders looking to escape the busy city streets. This 38-mile ride with 1,600 feet of elevation, is suitable for all personalities of rider: the fast paced racer or the person just out to relax and cruise. A great place to start t...
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    • San Francisco, California

      Crab Fishing at China Beach

      5.0
      It'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...
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