San Francisco is a city that balances civilization with nature beautifully. Known for its Golden Gate Bridge, it provides excellent views of the Bay, rolling hills, and green parks. San Francisco offers some lively neighborhoods and historical sites like Alcatraz Island and a multi-layered cultural scene. 

San Francisco trails offer a unique setting to enjoy nature's beauty amid the city's vibrancy. Whether you are looking for adventure or just peace, there's something in the city for everyone.

Want some idea of where to get those running shoes laced up? Here's our list of the best trails and tracks in San Francisco for running enthusiasts.

1\. **Golden Gate Park**

**What is it:** This super-sized urban park covers 1,000 acres of trails that are best suited for running.

**Why it's cool:** Flora and fauna that are just incredible; lovely gardens; historic and modern attractions, including the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum; this place does have it all. Its flat terrain and shaded paths make this a wonderful spot for all runners.

**What is it great for:** Casual jogs, interval training, and long-distance running.

**Other Activities:** Bird watching, exploring the botanical gardens, paddle boating at Stow Lake as well as street art installations.

2\. **Presidio Trails**

**What is it:** A historic national park that lies north of San Francisco with 24 miles of trails, consisting of connected routes.

**Why it's awesome:** Runners can enjoy beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, and Marin Headlands as they pass through eucalyptus groves and open meadows.

**What is it great for:** Scenic runs with a view, group runs, and training programs for trail runners.

**Other Activities:** Picnic, photography, and visiting historic sites such as the Presidio Officers' Club.

3\. **Embarcadero Waterfront**

**What is it:** A waterfront promenade that stretches from Oracle Park to Fisherman's Wharf, running flat and scenic.

**Why it's awesome:** The route provides you with fantastic views of the Bay Bridge, ferry boats, and bustling piers. It is lively yet quiet, therefore a perfect spot for early morning or evening runs.

**What is it great for:** Short runs, sunrise or sunset jogs, and tourists wanting to combine sightseeing with fitness.

**Other Activities:** Try local restaurants, Pier 39, and some street performers.

4\. **Lands End Trail**

**What is it:** 3.4-mile coastal trail running along San Francisco's rugged coastline, with views of the Pacific Ocean that will make you take a thousand snaps.

**Why it’s awesome:** Combines natural beauty with historical landmarks, such as old Sutro Baths and Cliff House ruins. Moderately challenging, with elevation changes for the adventurous runner.

**What is it great for:** Trail running, hill workouts, and runners who love ocean breezes.

**Other Activities:** Hiking, photography, and watching ships enter the Golden Gate Strait.

5\. **Crissy Field**

**What is it:** A flat, sandy track running along the waterfront area from Marina Green to Fort Point.

**Why it’s awesome:** Panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Bay soak up the whole trail. The gentle terrain makes sure it's a good beginner trail.

**What is it great for:** Easy runs, family walks, and jogging with dogs.

**Other Activities:** Fly kites, have picnics, and just walk along the beach

6\. **Twin Peaks Loop**

**What it is:** Hard loop trail that takes you to the summits of Twin Peaks, one of the highest points in San Francisco.

**Why it's awesome:** 360 panoramic views of the city and Bay Area; it's cool and quiet, making it a nice walk

**What is it great for:** Intense hill training and cardio junkies looking to get through with a great view.

**Other Activities:** Sunset viewing, photography, discovery of nature.

7\. **Glen Canyon Park**

**What is it:** A hidden gem in the middle of town with steep trails and interesting rock formations.

**Why it's awesome:** The park encompasses a total of 70 acres featuring different levels of grade, steep climbs, and flat pathways surrounded by spectacular natural beauty. Quieter than some of the more popular trails.

**What is it great for:** Lone runners, nature enthusiasts, and trail lovers.

**Other Activities:** Rock climbing, birding, Islais Creek exploring.

**Our picks for Running groups in San Francisco** 

From scenic coastlines to urban trails, San Francisco has something for every runner. Are you someone who does not like running alone or preparing for a big race? As a running community-based town, San Francisco has plenty of running groups and meetups to join so you'll always have a lively community of runners readily available nearby.

Here are some of the most popular running groups in San Francisco:

[Slow Girls Run Club Sunday Run](https://sweatpals.com/slow-girls-run-club-sunday-run/2024-11-17)

[SFRRC Track Night](https://sweatpals.com/sfrrc-track-night/2024-11-19)

[SFRRC Ferry Building Tempo Run](https://sweatpals.com/sfrrc-ferry-building-tempo-run/2024-11-28)

So go ahead, lace up those running shoes, pull in the fresh air, and get to discover these beautiful trails and tracks. Get moving!