San Francisco is known for tall buildings and steep hills, but within the busy city, there are abundant green spaces that offer the perfect spots to unwind and take in the fresh air. From urban spaces to jungle-like escapes, the city has everything you could need to reconnect with the natural world that many people miss in city life.
The Presidio Tunnel Tops is a 14-acre national park located above the parkway tunnel in the Marina District. The park opened in 2022 and offers some of the best views in the city. The park sits above Crissy Field and overlooks the stunning Golden Gate Bridge. From seating areas to a playground and restaurant, the park has everything you could need for a restful day. If you’re hoping to learn about the surrounding areas, pop into the field station and check out the displays of natural specimens and artifacts.
If you want to feel like you’ve escaped to another world, head over to Sutro Forest. This forest lies across from Mount Sutro and is filled with towering eucalyptus trees that block out the surrounding city. Fog often rolls through the hills, making it a chill but intimate atmosphere. The forest is filled with hiking trails, making it a perfect place to get outside and be active. This forest is also one of the few places in San Francisco that coincide with the surrounding infrastructure while remaining natural and lively.
Glen Canyon is one of the few canyons in the city, and it is well-loved. It’s located between Glen Park and Diamond Heights, offers an expansive trail network, and is known to be highly biodiverse. It is a space to slow down, take in the sights of nature, and maybe walk your dog without leaving the city. At this canyon, you’ll be truly immerged into the nature that surrounds you, which eliminates any feelings of being in a city.
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