Trail Map of San Bruno Mountain, Ridge Trail and Summit Loop

Moderate: 3.5 miles, Half day

Overview: 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.

Our guide focuses on two popular hikes.

The 3½ mile Summit Loop trail takes a counter-clockwise route around the Western side of the mountain, ambling through vegetation and slowly ascending to reveal the views of Sutro Tower, San Francisco and a distant Mount Tamalpais. More views are revealed at the top of the mountain, looking south towards the coastal range, west to the ocean and east to Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay.

The longer 7 mile hike along the Ridge Trail (1,400ft elevation gain) heads East and provides grandstand views of the San Francisco Bay geography.

Tips:
• Pick a nice clear day for this hike as San Bruno Mountain can be a magnet for clouds and fog.
• Paid parking is available inside the State Park entrance off Guadalupe Canyon Parkway.