This is a beautiful route in the Coastal Headlands that’s very popular among runners. This area makes you feel completely removed from civilization, even though you are so close to San Francisco. The loop has some of the most breathtaking vistas in the state so make sure to bring your camera and plenty of water.

This is an incredible place to explore off the beaten path in the Forest of Nisene Marks, near Santa Cruz. This trail doesn’t have much elevation gain or loss, and follows along a gorgeous redwood forest and a beautiful creek. Experience the quietness of nature, and try to spot the abundance of wildlife that these redwoods have to offer.

Located in the hills above Hayward, this is a hidden gem worth visiting. The trail offers sweeping views of the Bay. The hills are especially beautiful and green in the springtime, and there are creeks and wildflowers to enjoy. This route starts at the parking lot on May Road, then follows the path to Meyers Ranch Trail, a huge, long, exposed climb, followed by a fun and flying downhill on the High Ridge Loop Trail.

The Sequoia Bayview trail is a wide and level trail that’s very popular at the Joaquin Miller Park. You'll find lots of joggers, mountain bikers and dog walkers. If you’re looking for a shorter distance route that doesn’t have much elevation gain or loss, this trail is for you. Nonetheless, the Sequoia Bayview Trail connects to many other trails in Joaquin Miller Park and Redwood Regional Park, so you can explore for as long as you want.

This hike connects to the Sweeney Ridge, which offers excellent views of the Pacific Ocean. This area can often have lots of coastal fog, so be prepared for all situations. The Mori Ridge trail climbs steadily up through over 1,000 feet of height - some of which is steep enough to make a regular walking gait difficult, and only the most kamikaze trail runner would attempt.

Located just a short drive from downtown San Francisco, Lafayette Ridge Trail is a moderate to difficult climb up to the summit of Russell Peak, offering gorgeous views of Briones Regional Park, Mount Diablo, Lafayette, and the surrounding Delta. Runners, hikers, and dog walkers will be treated to rolling hills, ridges, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife.

This trail takes you from the picturesque town of Mill Valley to Stinson Beach. The Dipsea Race, for which the trail is now famous, takes place here every year, and it's speculated it's the oldest trail race in America. The start from Mill Valley begins with nearly 700 steps in the first mile, with plaques on the steps honoring previous Dipsea winners and participants. Please note: This is a point-to-point trail, you’ll need to leave a car at the end for your return trip.

This route offers a great intro to Wildcat Canyon Regional Park that is located just east of the city of Richmond in the East Bay. The park extends from the Tilden Nature Area above the Berkeley Hills in the south to the historic Alvarado Park at the north end in Richmond. The San Pablo Ridge Trail offers gorgeous views of the Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day, and opportunities for wildlife and bird viewing. Bring plenty of water and an extra layer in case it gets windy.

Looming large over San Francisco and the northern peninsula, the wilderness preserve of San Bruno Mountain State and County Park is home to several rare and endangered species of flora, fauna, and wildlife, including the elfin butterfly. The San Bruno Mountain Summit Loop and Ridge Trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco and the Central Bay Area, as well as numerous wildlife and plant viewing opportunities.

Monte Bello Preserve Loop is a moderate to difficult loop through Monte Bello Open Space Preserve and a portion of Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve as it summits Black Mountain. The well-maintained route offers beautiful rolling hills, spectacular views of Santa Cruz, and the Bay and a number of wildlife and wildflower viewing opportunities.