Local Adventure: Hike Across San Francisco

Did you know you can hike across San Francisco in a day? From Candlestick Park to Baker Beach, the Crosstown Trail offers a journey through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

This journey covers 17 miles of the city and takes approximately 7 hours. It will take you to some of San Francisco’s most iconic areas, including the Presidio and McLaren Park. The trail-heavy route makes it the perfect place to disconnect and take in the stunning sights of the parks tucked away in the urban city.

Seventeen miles may seem far on its own, but there are many opportunities to take breaks and enjoy delicious local bites. Stop by Mission Blue to grab a latte and delicious local pastry as you start. After you fill it out, you’ll embark on the section heading through McLaren Parks and Glen Canyon Park.

You’ll likely work up an appetite on this leg of the journey, so as you begin section two, look out for Calabria Brothers Deli to pick up an authentic Italian sandwich. On this portion, you’ll continue through parks and get to walk up the iconic Moraga Steps.

As you hit the half point, you will find yourself in the Forest Hill neighborhood, enjoying views of Golden Gate Park and dozens of tiled steps.

As you embark on section two, you’ll get to explore Golden Gate Park, trekking through the rose garden and Blue Heron Lake. As you exit the park, look out for Cinderella Bakery and Cafe to enjoy a traditional Russian meal before embarking on the final section of your journey.

The hornet’s final leg will come up quickly and be full of some of the city’s biggest attractions. The trail goes through Land’s End and offers sights of the Golden Gate Bridge before taking by the iconic Sutro Baths.

Your journey will end there, and while you may be tired, this is truly one of the bay’s most unique experiences—worth a trip!

If you’re feeling ambitious, this journey has a second version: the Double Cross Trail. This journey will take you from the Bluffs trail to Fort Funston.