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- Feb 8, 2022

10 Best Places to Run in San Francisco

Updated: May 1, 2022

Explore The Best Places to Run or Walk for Excercise in San Fran

San Francisco's best city-run traffic-free routes - perfect to spice up your workout routine! With this unique guide, you can seamlessly create a running experience within city limits. Located between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific coast, San Francisco Running is one of the most popular full-body workouts that people use to stay in shape. Here are the 10 best places you should run that will give you a run for your money!

Safety First:

Safety always comes first. Several important considerations before heading out on your run: notify someone where you’re going and when to expect you back, pack granola bars and water, and be sure to monitor changing weather conditions.

Run with a friend or a group remember safety first!

1. Crissy Field

Crissy Field is a picturesque runner’s paradise. The runner experiences the sights and sounds of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Headlands, and Sausalito. In the first two miles the runner will be on a paved path/yacht club sidewalk, then join a wide gravel pathway for the jaunt out to Fort Point. See more here...

2. Golden Gate Bridge

Every day, 10,000 pedestrians cross the Golden Gate Bridge. The bridge is not only encouraged by authorities but "running across" it is a tourist attraction. Tourists will not only be contending with walkers, cyclists, strollers, bladers, and every other tourist but will also find it difficult to resist stopping for another look at the views. for more info...

3. Land End

The varied terrain of the coastline from the Golden Gate Bridge to Land’s End makes for a scenic training environment. From trails to roads, to wide desolate beaches, there are so many opportunities here for a down-to-earth reality check. An interesting option is to do a ~5-mile route one-way that travels concurrent with the Coastal Trail and then back on the road around Sea Cliff before rejoining the trail. If you're looking for hilliness close to shore, Lincoln Blvd. or Battery Bluffs Trail. for more info...

4. Glen Canyon Park

A 3.7-mile trail leaves from a lush creek and follows a variety of habitats, going from the creekside vegetation to rocky grassland. Nearby, a profusion of wildflowers blooms each spring.

Whether you're looking for a quick walk, a day hike, or a multi-day backpacking trip, Glen Canyon Park has something to offer. See more here...

5. The Embarcadero

The Embarcadero to Fisherman’s Wharf is a 4.5 mile out and back trail that offers the chance to see wildlife. The trail is good for all skill levels and accessible year-round. Dogs can use this trail as well.

Along the Embarcadero, you'll see key landmarks. The last one is Marina Park, but before that major points are the Bay Bridge, Market St., the Exploratorium, Alcatraz Ferry, Pier 41 (ferry to Sausalito), Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square. for more info...

6. Lake Merced

Lake Merced in San Francisco is major water, recreational, and natural resource. More than half of the park is managed by the Recreation and Parks Department’s Natural Areas Program. This program works to restore and protect habitat for birds and other wildlife as well as maintain and improve trails. Friends of Lake Merced was established in 1945 with a mission dedicated to improving public access to Lake Merced. See more here...

7. Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a popular outdoor recreational area in San Francisco for tourists and locals alike. Walking the perimeter loop offers amazing views of the park's many natural wonders, providing an interactive way to experience nature. This 7.3-mile loop features artistic points that could stretch your attention span, provide historical information, or give glimpses into the natural beauty of the park. For more info...

8. Presido Trail Loop

Walk or run on the six-mile Presidio Loop for incredible views and charm. Ideal for hikers, the Presidio Trail is covered in flowers in spring and gives you great views of coastlines. For more info...

9. McLaren ParkTrails

Altogether, Philosopher's Way spans 2.7 miles and is good for all skill levels. The trail features beautiful wildflowers year-round and allows pets as long as they are on a leash.

for more info...

10. Grandview Park Trail

Located on a hilltop in the Sunset District, Grandview Trail is aptly named for its stunning views of the city.

The park encompasses a 360-degree view of the city and bay. Standing at 666 feet in elevation, this natural area in San Francisco’s Sunset District offers a grand vista for all to enjoy through its four acres of grassy landscape. For more info...