by Morgan Medeiros

Created on: October 31, 2008   Last Updated: November 07, 2008

San Francisco is an overwhelming city, with so many sights to offer and experiences to enjoy: a steaming bowl of clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf, the hustle and bustle of Chinatown- why leave, right? Wrong. Venture outside of the hustle and bustle of the man-made city and step into the nature-made beauty of these surrounding bay area hikes.

Best view of the Bay Area: Angel Island State Park, the largest island in the San Francisco bay, is home to one of the most spectacular views of San Francisco you are likely to encounter. Catch a ferry from San Francisco to this oasis in the bay, featuring a large variety of amenities for visitors. Aside from hiking, adventurers can rent bikes or take a motorized tram tour. There are a few small campsites, one of which is kayak-accessible. Dogs are not allowed anywhere on the island. Thirteen miles of trails are available, along with a five mile road around the perimeter of the island. The Northridge/Sunset Trail Loop leads to the summit of Mt. Livermore, with an elevation of 788 feet. The hike offers breathtaking views of the bay, wildflowers, and surrounding nature. Migrating whales can be seen with binoculars, and the Golden Gate Bridge is within view. Allow at least three hours to enjoy the scenery. As the island was once occupied by the military, there are several historic buildings. Picnic tables and charcoal barbeques are available for use near the ferry docks, or if picnicking isn't your style, head over to the Cove Caf and Oyster Bar.

Best for the family and man's best friend: Fort Funston-Part of the Golden Gates National Parks Conservatory is a beautiful place to stretch your legs and spend a few hours reconnecting with Fido or the family. Enjoy the stretch of beach while acrobatic hang-gliders swoop overhead. Hiking here is pretty easy, and can be done in soft-soled shoes. Fort Funston offers two trails. Sunset Trail is paved, but Sand Ladder Trail is indeed made of sand and can be slippery, so use caution. Drinking fountains, pit toilets, and pay phones are located near the parking lot. There are gas stations, restaurants, and stores to the south, on John Daly Blvd. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy among the shells, sand dollars, and other marine life after you finish the 1.5 mile hike down Sand Ladder Trail to the beach. Or, for views of bright wildflowers and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, walk the paved (stroller and wheelchair-friendly) Sunset Trail that loops around Battery Davis, built in 1928. The kids will love the historic cannons, daring hang gliders, and staggering amounts of ocean life present in this family-friendly location.

Best moderate hike: If you like native wildflowers and breathtaking ocean views, the possibility of seeing seals, sea lions, and whales, you'd be best suited to head to Chimney Rock Trailhead. This 2 mile hike takes about an hour, and has about 250 feet of elevation change. The land is natural beauty at its finest, preserved by the National Park Service. There is no entrance or parking fee, although parking is somewhat limited, and dogs are not allowed. Venture into nearby Inverness afterwards for a great lunch or dinner at the upscale Station House Caf, featuring local and wild seafood, as well as a delicious breakfast served all day.

Any of these hikes would greatly enhance your time in the Bay Area. Don't leave San Francisco without experiencing the best it has to offer: wildflowers, crashing waves, impressive views of nature, and yes, the aforementioned bowl of clam chowder.

Learn more about this author, Morgan Medeiros.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.