San Francisco is a city that offers much more than its iconic skyline and cable cars. For outdoor lovers, it’s a paradise of diverse landscapes — from rugged coastlines to lush parks and steep hills. What makes this city particularly special for hiking and trekking tours is the variety: you can explore world-famous landmarks like Coit Tower and Lombard Street or venture further afield for awe-inspiring natural wonders such as Yosemite National Park. For example, the San Francisco: Day Trip to Yosemite with Giant Sequoias Hike combines breathtaking vistas with a walk among some of the tallest trees on earth. It’s an eco-conscious, small-group experience that packs in the best of Yosemite in a single day. Meanwhile, urban adventures like the Iconic San Francisco Urban Hiking Tour take you through the city’s neighborhoods and stairways, revealing hidden perspectives and incredible views. Whatever your fitness level or interests, San Francisco’s hiking options are wide-ranging and worth exploring.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of hiking and trekking tours suited for different interests and activity levels. You’ll find day trips to Yosemite, coastal hikes along the Pacific, challenging urban walks through San Francisco’s neighborhoods, and even shorter tours with stunning city views. We’ve included tours with high ratings, unique features, and great value, such as the Monkey Mountain Hike in Mexico and the Coit Tower Hike with Secret San Francisco Views. Keep reading to find the right fit for your adventure style.
1. San Francisco: Day Trip to Yosemite with Giant Sequoias Hike
At number one, this day trip to Yosemite offers a full immersion into one of California’s most iconic parks. For around $209, you get a 14-hour adventure that includes the spectacular Yosemite Valley, the majestic Giant Sequoias, and the famous El Capitan and Half Dome viewpoints. What sets this tour apart is its focus on quality over quantity—your guide shares insights about the park’s geology and ecology while you explore the glacier-carved landscape. The highlight is a 1.5-hour hike among ancient Sequoias, standing eye-to-eye with some of the tallest trees on earth. You’ll also enjoy free time at Yosemite Falls or quiet overlooks to reflect on the scenery. The tour uses eco-friendly biofuel vehicles, so you’re reducing your carbon footprint while taking in the natural wonders.
Guests consistently praise the small group size, which helps avoid the crowds and allows for a more intimate experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to tick Yosemite off their list in a single day without sacrificing depth or comfort. Bottom line: Excellent value for a comprehensive, guided Yosemite experience.
2. Monkey Mountain Hike
Next, for a more exotic adventure, the Monkey Mountain Hike near Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a unique blend of mountain views, cultural insights, and nature. This tour is highly rated with a perfect 5-star score from 16 reviews, and at just $64.90 per person, it’s a budget-friendly half-day option. The hike involves challenging inclines—so proper footwear is advised—and takes you to the summit of Monkey Mountain, where the panoramic vistas of San Pancho and the coastline unfold. Along the way, your guide shares stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and local culture, making it more than just a physical challenge. You also get to enjoy local food like ceviche or tacos on the way back, adding a culinary touch to your adventure.
What makes this hike special is its intimate size—limited to five participants—and its combination of physical activity with cultural learning. The reviews mention the breathtaking views and the knowledgeable guide, Sam, who is praised for his friendliness and expertise. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a personalized experience and are okay with a bit of a workout. Bottom line: A rewarding, small-group trek with unbeatable scenery.
3. San Francisco Urban Hike: Coit Tower, Lombard Street and North Beach
At number three, this urban hike covers about 3 hours of walking through some of San Francisco’s most colorful neighborhoods. For $54, you’ll explore Russian Hill, Telegraph Hill, and North Beach, climbing steep hills and stairways to discover lesser-known cultural landmarks and panoramic viewpoints. The tour starts at Levi’s Plaza Park, where you’ll immediately begin ascending the famous Filbert Steps, passing through lush gardens and keeping an eye out for the resident parrots. The climb culminates at Coit Tower, offering sweeping views of the city, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
This experience is perfect for travelers interested in city history, local stories, and a good workout. Reviewers love the lively guide and the chance to explore areas most travelers miss. Note that it’s a strenuous 3-hour walk with lots of hills and stairs, so good footwear and a reasonable fitness level are recommended. Bottom line: A fun, energetic way to see San Francisco from its hills to its hidden staircases.
4. Iconic San Francisco Urban Hiking Tour
Number four, the Iconic San Francisco Urban Hiking Tour offers a 3-hour walk through some of the city’s most celebrated sights for just $39.20. This locally led tour skips the Golden Gate Bridge itself but instead focuses on scenic viewpoints at the Palace of Fine Arts, the Presidio’s trails and viewpoints, and the famous Yoda fountain—yes, that Yoda fountain! You’ll walk through neighborhoods like Marina and North Beach, with plenty of photo stops and stories about local culture and city development.
This tour appeals to those wanting a shorter, energetic experience with fewer crowds. It’s great for travelers on a budget who still want a taste of San Francisco’s beauty and quirks. The reviews praise the guide’s humor and knowledge, making the walk both educational and enjoyable. Since it’s a 3-hour urban walk that involves some hills, plan for comfortable shoes. Bottom line: A lively, cost-effective way to see many city highlights on foot.
5. Epic San Francisco Views Urban Hiking Tour – City and Nature
Number five, the Epic San Francisco Views Urban Hiking Tour provides a balanced mix of cityscapes and natural scenery over 3 hours at $49. This tour emphasizes photo-worthy views while offering insight into how historical and contemporary issues—like bike lanes and private neighborhoods—shape the city. You’ll walk through parks, neighborhoods, and viewpoints, gaining a deeper understanding of San Francisco’s urban fabric.
Ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about the city’s complex character while capturing striking photos, this tour is a good option for those wanting a bit of both. It’s less about intense physicality and more about insider perspectives and storytelling. With reviews indicating a focus on urban beauty and history, it’s suited for curious visitors who want a well-rounded walk. Bottom line: A thoughtful, engaging tour blending city views with stories.
$49 per person
6. Coit Tower Hike with Secret San Francisco Views
Coming in at number six, this Coit Tower Hike is an affordable, 2-hour 15-minute experience costing just $13.99. It’s perfect for those short on time but still eager to see one of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks. Starting from Telegraph Hill, you’ll enjoy a short walk through gardens before ascending to Coit Tower. Inside, the murals tell stories of the city’s past, and from the observation deck, you’ll be treated to 180-degree panoramic views of the Golden Gate, Alcatraz, and downtown SF.
While the tour currently has no reviews, it’s highly recommended for its accessibility and the chance to see iconic views without a full-day commitment. The walk is manageable for most fitness levels and offers a great introduction to the city’s hills and sights. Bottom line: An affordable, scenic option for a quick city fix.
$13.99 per person
7. Hiking along Pacifica State Beach Coastline
Finally, for those who love coastal scenery, the Pacifica State Beach Coastline offers a 3.5-hour trek along California’s rugged coast. Starting at Sharp Park Beach and ending at Linda Mar, you’ll see whale sightings, California wildflowers, black sand beaches, and surfers catching waves. The hike combines beach, coastal bluff, and forest landscapes, giving you a well-rounded outdoor experience.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to combine wildlife, scenery, and beach vibes. Watch out for variable weather and bring layers; the coast can be foggy or windy. While no reviews are available yet, the itinerary promises plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to see local wildlife. Bottom line: An excellent choice for coastal lovers and nature explorers.
$35.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hiking or Trekking Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, fitness level, and interests. If you want a full-day adventure with a focus on iconic natural scenery, the Yosemite day trip is hard to beat. For those interested in urban exploration with some physical activity, the San Francisco urban hikes and the Iconic San Francisco Urban Hiking Tour provide a more energetic, city-centered experience. If coastal scenery calls, the Pacifica Coastline hike offers stunning views and wildlife encounters. Keep in mind that some tours are better suited for active travelers, while others are suitable for those seeking a more relaxed pace.
Booking early can ensure better availability, especially for popular day trips like Yosemite. Consider the season—spring and fall often provide the best weather and scenery—and always check what’s included, especially transportation and guide expertise.
Final thoughts
San Francisco’s hiking options span from epic day trips to Yosemite to short city walks revealing hidden stairways. If you’re after the grandeur of nature, the Yosemite tour is unbeatable. For a mix of city and nature, Urban Hiking Tours bring the city’s character to life on foot. Coastal scenery lovers should not miss the Pacifica coastline hike for wildflowers and waves.
Whatever your style, there’s a trail or trek in San Francisco that will match your adventure appetite. Remember to book early, pack your sense of curiosity, and enjoy exploring this city’s diverse landscapes on foot.