November 2017
Lands End,
San Francisco
Distance: 3.5 miles Time: 1.5 hours Type: One way
There are many great walks in and around San Francisco but the Lands End Trail is a classic, hugging the extreme western edge of the city and affording stunning views over the Pacific, the entrance to the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. For many, this is a must-do walk in the city and can be easily completed in a morning or afternoon.
Route:
You can tackle the trail in either direction: one end of the trail-head is located at the Sutro Baths (ruins of old Victorian bath house) next to Cliff House (a great spot for a late breakfast or lunch) and the other is located at Eagle Point by El Camino del Mar.
The path winds through woods and makes its way up and down some small hills but it is relatively easy-going. You have views of the Bay and Bridge at numerous points. Don't miss the Labyrinth, a stoney feature on a little outcrop around half-way along the trail. Apparently, at one time there was a trolley car that ran along here, which surely must have enjoyed one of the finest views of any commuter service.
To make the walk a little longer, and to incorporate some other nice spots, consider adding on a walk along Ocean Beach on the western end or a trip to China Beach or the Legion of Honor on the eastern end. Or an even better idea - book a table at Cliff House and make it your lunch time stop. Just make sure to check the conditions before you head out because this is not a hike you want to do on a foggy day.
More information can be found here:
https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/landsend.htm