As someone who has lived in the Bay Area for the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the most breathtaking trails in Northern California. Hiking is not just a pastime for me, it’s a way to connect with nature, clear my mind, and spend quality time with friends. Over the years, I’ve discovered a handful of hikes that I keep returning to, each offering its own unique blend of scenery, challenge, and adventure. If you’re looking to explore some of the best trails in the Bay Area, here are my top picks along with some tips to make the most of your hike.

Cataract Trail to Alpine Lake via Rock Springs Trailhead

• Distance: ~5.6 miles round trip
• Parking: Limited roadside parking near the Rock Springs Trailhead. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Nestled in Marin County, the Cataract Trail is one of the most stunning waterfall hikes in the Bay Area, especially after a good rain. The trailhead begins at the Rock Springs Trailhead, and from there, the path meanders through a lush forest, following the cascading Cataract Creek. As you descend, you’ll be greeted with a series of waterfalls, each more beautiful than the last. The trail is lined with moss-covered rocks, towering redwoods, and ferns that give it an almost mystical feel.

The payoff comes when you reach Alpine Lake, a serene reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and dense woodland. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take in the views, and enjoy a snack before heading back up. You can also do the trail in reverse starting at alpine lake as they have parking there as well.

Tips:

• Best hiked in the winter or early spring when the waterfalls are at their fullest.
• Wear waterproof boots, as the trail can be muddy after rain.
• Arrive early, as parking near the trailhead is limited.

Mori Point Loop

• Distance: ~2.6 miles round trip
• Parking: Free parking available at the Mori Point entrance on Bradford Way.

For a coastal hike that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Mori Point in Pacifica is a must-visit. The Mori Point Loop is a relatively short hike, but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in beauty. Starting from the parking area, the trail quickly climbs up the bluffs, offering stunning ocean vistas. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Golden Gate Bridge and the Farallon Islands.

One of my favorite parts of this hike is the descent toward the beach, where you can walk along the shoreline and listen to the waves crashing against the cliffs. In the spring, the hillsides are blanketed in vibrant wildflowers, making the scenery even more breathtaking.

Tips:

• Visit during sunset for an unforgettable experience.
• Keep an eye out for whales during migration season (December to May).
• Be prepared for wind, layers are your friend!

Angel Island – North Ridge and Sunset Loop

• Distance: ~5 miles round trip
• Parking: Paid parking available in Tiburon near the ferry terminal; plan ahead as spaces fill up quickly.

Angel Island is one of the Bay Area’s best-kept secrets. A short ferry ride from Tiburon or San Francisco takes you to this historic island, offering some of the most spectacular views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin Headlands. I did this hike for the first time recently and it easily went to the top of my favorite hikes list. I cant wait to go back and try other trails there!

The North Ridge and Sunset Loop is my favorite way to explore the island. The hike starts with a steady climb through eucalyptus groves and grassy meadows, eventually leading to the summit of Mount Livermore. From the top, you’re rewarded with a 360-degree view of the entire Bay Area. The descent via the Sunset Trail is just as stunning, offering sweeping views of the water as you make your way back to the dock.

Tips:

• Plan your ferry times in advance- there’s nothing worse than missing the last boat back!
• Bring plenty of water, as there are limited refill stations on the island.
• Take some time to explore the island’s historic sites, including the old immigration station.

Cataract and Coastal Trail Loop

• Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
• Parking: You can park at the Rock Spring Trailhead parking lot but arrive early as it can fill up fast.

If you’re looking for a hike that combines waterfalls, rolling green hills, and coastal ocean views, the Cataract and Coastal Trail Loop is the perfect choice. This loop starts on the Cataract Trail, winding through a shaded forest and past several cascading waterfalls. Eventually, the trail connects with the Coastal Trail, where the scenery dramatically shifts from dense woodland to open bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You can also do the trail in reverse and start off with costal views depending on the weather.

This contrast is one of the reasons I love this hike, it feels like two completely different hikes wrapped into one. The coastal portion of the trail is particularly stunning in the late afternoon, when the sun casts a golden glow over the cliffs and sea.

Tips:

• Check the weather before you go, the coastal trail section can be foggy and windy. It also is not shaded until you reach the cataract falls trail.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic viewpoints.
• Bring trekking poles if you’re prone to knee pain, the elevation changes can be tough on the descent.

Alamere Falls

• Distance: ~13.7 miles round trip or 7 miles if you take the shortcut. See my post about hiking Alamere Falls and tips to find the shortcut.
• Parking: Free parking at the Palomarin Trailhead, but it fills up quickly, arrive early or be prepared to park further away and walk in.

No list of Bay Area hikes would be complete without mentioning Alamere Falls, one of the few tidefall waterfalls in the country (where a waterfall flows directly into the ocean). Located in Point Reyes National Seashore, this hike is about 13 miles round trip, making it one of the more challenging trails on this list.

Tips:

• Check the tide schedule before you go, low tide is the safest time to access the falls.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks; this is a long hike with no amenities.
• Start early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

Phoenix Lake and Yolanda Trail Loop

• Distance: ~4.7 miles round trip
• Parking: Limited street parking near Natalie Coffin Greene Park; arrive early to secure a spot.

The Phoenix Lake and Yolanda Trail Loop in Ross is a hidden gem that offers a moderate climb with rewarding views of Mount Tamalpais and the surrounding valleys. Beginning at Phoenix Lake, the trail winds through oak woodlands and open meadows, making for a scenic and peaceful hike. The steady incline provides a great workout, and the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort.

Tips:

• Best enjoyed in the spring when the hills are green and wildflowers are blooming.
• Bring plenty of water, as there’s little shade in some sections.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife, deer are commonly seen along the trail.

Each of these hikes offers something special, whether it’s waterfalls, ocean views, or panoramic summits. After ten years of exploring the Bay Area, I still find myself returning to these trails, rediscovering their beauty with each visit. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic adventure with friends, these trails are sure to leave you inspired and in awe of Northern California’s natural wonders.

Happy hiking!

Have you hike any of these Bay Area hikes? Any favorites that i missed?