Home › California › San Francisco › Coastal Trail
Coastal Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 269 Google reviews · Running trail in San Francisco, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Coastal Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Beachside trail network for walking and hiking, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.
What runners say about Coastal Trail
“The trail's natural beauty and well-maintained paths make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy a refreshing escape within the city.”
“I love taking my time to soak in the stunning ocean views, snapping photos of Heart Rock along the way, and enjoying the peaceful breeze.”
“Clean trails that are easy to walk on for all ages and disabilities.”
One of my favorite escapes in San Francisco is the coastal trail that begins at the historic Cliff House and winds its way past the iconic Sutro Baths. I love taking my time to soak in the stunning ocean views, snapping photos of Heart Rock along the way, and enjoying the peaceful breeze.
One of my favorite trails in SF. I enjoy walking this trail so much, just love the surroundings/atmosphere! I usually walk to Lands End(Labyrinth) and come back
Nice scenic spot in SF. Trail is beautiful and well kept. Definitely a busy spot, you might have to hunt for a parking spot on Sundays. The breeze here is rather strong so bring a jacket or sweater if you don’t enjoy the cold.
Fantastic view of Golden Gate after a short trail. I visited early morning and could see Golden gate was covered with fog and very next moment fog disappeared with a tremendous view of golden gate
Trail conditions & character
“I love taking my time to soak in the stunning ocean views, snapping photos of Heart Rock along the way, and enjoying the peaceful breeze.”
“There is a large parking lot and plenty of trails from this overlook that connect to Sutro Baths and Lands End.”
Plan your run at Coastal Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitenps.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near San Francisco
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lands End Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 293 reviews
Scenic hiking trails and outlooks for the Golden Gate Bridge, the Pacific and the bay, plus for sunset.
Lands End Trail Eagles Point
4.8 ★★★★★ 648 reviews
Scenic trail along the cliff coast with vistas and a labyrinth.
Sand Ladder
4.7 ★★★★★ 101 reviews
Beachfront hiking trail with a steep, rustic stairway offers sweeping views of the ocean & bridge.
Batteries to Bluffs Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 416 reviews
0.7-mi. pedestrian walkway along the shoreline, offering elevated views of the ocean & bluffs.
Strawberry Hill
4.7 ★★★★★ 323 reviews
Hill in a lake reaching 430 feet with Golden Gate views & a man-made waterfall, accessed by bridges.