10 PET FRIENDLY HIKES IN THE BAY AREA
“The Bay Area” in California typically refers to the region surrounding the San Francisco Bay, encompassing nine counties and numerous cities. The area is known for its cultural, economic, and geographic diversity. Here’s a breakdown:
Core Bay Area Counties:
1. San Francisco - The heart of the region, known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.
2. San Mateo County - Includes cities like Redwood City, Daly City, and San Mateo, south of San Francisco.
3. Santa Clara County - The hub of Silicon Valley, including San Jose, Mountain View, and Palo Alto.
4. Alameda County - Features cities like Oakland, Berkeley, and Fremont.
5. Contra Costa County - Includes cities such as Walnut Creek, Concord, and Richmond.
6. Marin County - North of the Golden Gate Bridge, includes Sausalito, San Rafael, and Mill Valley.
Additional Counties Often Included:
7. Solano County - Includes Vallejo and Fairfield, to the northeast of the core.
8. Sonoma County - Known for its wine country, including Santa Rosa and Petaluma.
9. Napa County - Another wine region, home to Napa and St. Helena.
Geographic Features:
• San Francisco Bay: The body of water around which the area is centered.
• Peninsula: Refers to the landmass including San Mateo County and part of Santa Clara County.
• East Bay: Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
• North Bay: Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and Solano Counties.
• South Bay: Santa Clara County.
Now that we got that out of the way, you know which area of the world we are diving into now! :)
1) Phillip Burton Memorial Beach
Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 173 feet
Trail Type: Out & Back
Intensity Level: Moderate
Not only is this a beautiful beach hike, it is also a fun place to watch surfers and paragliders when conditions are right. BOnus perk, this beach is also an INCREDIBLE spot to catch a world famous california sunset on a clear day!
2) California Coastal Trail: Lands End to Golden Gate Bridge
Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 662 feet
Trail Type: Point to Point
Intensity Level: Moderate
This trail offers stunning views of the Pacific ocean and Golden Gate bridge, walks through the forests, a historic site (Sutro Baths) and during certain times of the year, even wildflowers!
Make sure to park in the parking lot just off of Point Lobos Avenue and walk north towards the trailhead. Bring plenty of water.
3) Stow lake and strawberry hill loop
Distance: 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 170 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Intensity Level: Easy
Located inside the world famous Golden Gate Park, this easy hike is not to be missed. Great for bird watching, views of a small but lovely waterfall and even picnic benches/tables along the route!
4) Granuja Falls, Upper Falls, and Basin Falls via Waterfall Loop Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 410 feet
Trail Type: Out & Back
Intensity Level: Moderate
I had the pleasure of doing this hike as the last group hike that I lead in 2024 and boy was it stunning! Note that a day use reservation IS REQUIRED but other than that, just come early to allow yourself time to take in all of the beauty! There are rivers, lush greenery, multiple waterfalls, wildflowers and even a small village that looks straight out of a fairytale! You can read more about this hike on my blog post that is dedicated specifically to this hike. Head to that blog post —-> HERE.
5) CASCADE FALLS TRAIL
Distance: 0.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 134 feet
Trail Type: Out & Back
Intensity Level: Moderate
This is a very short hike but that doesn’t mean that it’s not worth the effort. It leads straight to a waterfalls and is surrounded by towering redwoods. Head here during Spring and early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest. Also, since this hike is so easy, it tends to be a very popular spot so arrive early to avoid crowds.
6) DAWN FALLS AND KING MOUNTAIN LOOP
Distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 715 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Intensity Level: Hard
Start early for this hike to ensure you find parking and be prepared for switchbacks and steep descents. The breathtaking redwoods and soothing sounds of the small but idyllic waterfall make it worth the effort.
7) COASTAL TRAIL AND COASTAL FIRE ROAD LOOP
Distance: 4.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1174 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Intensity Level: Moderate
Located inside Golden Gate National Recreation area, this trail has dramatic ocean views, bird watching and wildflowers during certain times of the year. Be sure to wear a hat and bring plenty of water because there is no shade on this trail and hiking poles can also be helpful.
8) WOLF HOUSE HISTORIC TRAIL
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 259 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Intensity Level: Easy
This well maintained and easy hike is perfect for those traveling with children, strollers or people with mobility challenges. History lovers will also love this trail because it takes you through the fascinating, Jack London State and Historic Park!
9) POINT REYES SECRET AMPHITHEATER/CRATER
Distance: 6.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 108 feet
Trail Type: Out & Back
Intensity Level: Moderate
This spectacular hike to secret beach is not to be missed! It is imperative that you do this hike during low tide and start at near or below zero feet or you will get stuck there. Gloves are also recommended for a 6 to 10 foot climb up and down. You’ll see the beautiful Pacific Ocean, tide pools, wildlife and caves.
10) KEHOE BEACH TRAIL
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 95 feet
Trail Type: Out & Back
Intensity Level: Easy
Located inside of Point Reyes National Seashore, one of my favorite areas in all of California, this hike provides beautiful beaches, wildflowers during certain times of year and plentiful bird watching, making it a lovely experience. There is no shade so make sure to bring sun protection.
Have you completed any of these hikes? Do you have a favorite? Or maybe even one that is NOT on this list that you’d like to share with us?