Welcome
Hello, and welcome to the 2025 San Francisco Marathon! We’re thrilled to have you join us for this unique tour of our stunning city. A big thank you to our incredible volunteers and sponsors for making this event possible! We can’t wait to get started and show you the sights in a way only San Francisco can offer.
Event Schedule
FRIDAY, JULY 26
WHEN WHAT WHERE
11:00 a.m. — 7:00 p.m.
Health & Fitness Expo and Bib Pickup
Fort Mason Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd.
SATURDAY, JULY 27
WHEN WHAT WHERE
7:00 a.m. 5K Saturday
8:00 a.m.
Seabastian’s 1K Mad Dash
9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m.
10:15 p.m.
Health & Fitness Expo and Bib Pickup
Chargel Ultra Marathon, First Loop
Crissy Field adjacent to Sports Basement Presidio
Crissy Field adjacent to Sports Basement Presidio
Fort Mason Festival Pavilion, 2 Marina Blvd.
The Embarcadero at Market Street
Event Schedule Cont’d
SUNDAY, JULY 28
WHEN WHAT WHERE
3:55 - 4:05 a.m.
Buses depart from BART stations *Check your location and exact departure time HERE
5:45 - 7:50 a.m 1st and 2nd Half Marathon Shuttle Buses
5:15 a.m. Full Marathon Start
6:30 a.m. 1st Half Marathon
7:00 a.m.
The San Francisco Alexi Pappas 10K
8:30 a.m. 2nd Half Marathon
9:00 a.m. 5K Sunday
Post Race Finish Line Festival
*Check your location and exact departure time HERE
The Embarcadero at Market Street
The Embarcadero at Market Street
The Embarcadero at Market Street
MLK Jr. Drive @ Golden Gate Park
The Embarcadero at Market Street
Full Marathon and 2nd Half Marathon Finish Line
Expo & Bib Pick-Up
July 25 & 26 Expo & Bib Pick-Up
Starting July 21, we will begin sending out bib number confirmations in batches. Join thousands of runners and spectators at the Fort Mason Festival Pavilion for an unforgettable race weekend expo. Celebrate with us at the only full marathon in San Francisco!
When: Friday, July 25: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 26: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Fort Mason Festival Pavilion, #2 Marina Blvd. (Take me there)
Parking: If you choose to drive to the Expo, a paid parking lot is available. However, parking may be challenging, so we recommend using public transportation or a rideshare service for your convenience.
What do I Pick Up at the Expo?
Your Bib with your unique number. your timing chip is attached to this. Your Participant Shirt; Your size is printed on your bib. A clear bag to use to drop off your gear at bag drop - also known as Gear Check.
You must present your ID when picking up your bib. If you are picking up for someone else, you must have a photo of their ID.
Things to know:
• Corral information is printed on your bib.
• Event change requests can be completed at the Expo. Please pick up your assigned bib and head to the Solutions table to make the request.
• If you need to move up to a faster corral, please visit our Pacer booth or Solutions desk to have your bib stamped based on availability. If you’re moving to a slower corral, no stamp is required.
Bib FAQ’s and more info: HERE
Have additional bib questions? Click HERE
Pre Race Events powered by
GO WILD: RUN SF
When: Saturday, July 26: 9 a.m.
Where: Firehouse building next to the Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason
Get ready to turn up the energy with San Francisco Marathon x PUMA at the GO WILD: RUN SF shakeout run! Join us at Fort Mason Firehouse on Saturday, July 26 at 9 a.m. for an unforgettable pre-race experience featuring special guest P-LO, one of the Bay Area’s own. Lace up for good vibes, city views, and a movement filled morning surrounded by runners, music, and hype only P-LO can bring. This is not your average shakeout, it’s a celebration of SF style, speed, and spirit. Don’t miss it!
Puma Shakeout Run
Race Morning Travel
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) Shuttle Buses:
BART doesn’t start early enough for you to reach The San Francisco Marathon Embarcadero Start Line, but we’ve got you covered! The San Francisco Marathon provides early morning bus service from six Bay Area BART stations. Please note you must purchase tickets for these shuttles; Click HERE to purchase morning bus tickets. Tickets will be available until 5 p.m. Saturday, July 26, when the Saturday Expo session ends. These buses will ensure you arrive at the Main Start Line on the Embarcadero by 4:30 am. Then simply purchase a BART ticket at the station on your return. The return ticket is not included in the purchase price.
Morning bus stations and departure times:
Walnut Creek: 3:55 a.m.
El Cerrito Plaza: 4:05 a.m.
MacArthur: 4:05 a.m.
Bay Fair (San Leandro): 3:50 a.m.
Daly City: 4:05 a.m.
Millbrae: 4:05 a.m.
(These times may be updated, we will notify all runners who purchased a BART ticket if need be.)
Bus drivers will have a list of everyone who has purchased tickets, so you won’t need a physical ticket to board the bus. Additionally, there is plenty of free parking available at each BART location.
Race Morning Travel Cont’d
Start Line/Finish Line Runner Shuttles:
Race morning shuttles are available for both First Half and Second Half Runners. No reservations needed—just show your race bib to board.
First Half Runner Shuttle Buses
Transportation back to the Main Finish Line Festival from Golden Gate Park: Shuttle Buses will pick up runners from the 1st half-finish line and bring them back to the start line at Embarcadero at Market St beginning at 7:45 am and continue every 15 minutes until 10:30 am.
Second Half Shuttle Buses
Transportation to the Start: Runner Shuttle Buses will pick up 2nd Half runners from 6:50 am to 7:50 am from the Main Start Line near the Embarcadero at Howard St. and Spear St., and drop them off close to the 2nd Half Marathon start line at Ocean Beach parking lot and Lincoln Way.
Gear Check Information
At the Expo
At the Expo, you will be given a clear plastic gear check bag and instructed to write your name and bib number on it. Look for signage directing you to the gear check tents for drop off on race morning.
Gear check drop-off/pick-up locations by distance
Full Marathon: gear check drop-off and pick-up is located by the main start/ finish line, at Embarcadero at the Ferry Plaza
1st Half Marathon: gear check drop-off and pick-up is located by the main start/ finish line at Embarcadero at the Ferry Plaza. *New for 2025: bags will not be transported to the finish line.
2nd Half: gear check drop-off is located by 2nd half start line near MLK Drive at Golden Gate Park. Pick-up will be from the buses located at Embarcadero at the Ferry Plaza.
The San Francisco Alexi Pappas 10K: gear check drop-off and pick-up is located by the main start/ finish line, at Embarcadero at the Ferry Plaza
Sunday 5K: gear check drop-off and pick-up is located by the main start line at Embarcadero at the Ferry Plaza.
*Please do not check valuables in gear bags. The San Francisco Marathon is not liable for any lost, stolen, or damaged items.
Distance/Event Overview
Distance, aid station, start+finish, corral information, and cutoff overview
EVENT/DISTANCE
Chargel Ultramarathon July 26, 10:15 p.m. The Embarcadero at Market St.
First
The San Francisco Alexi Pappas 10K July 27, 7:00 a.m.
For more detailed cut off information please click HERE
Corral Start Times
Events by Distance
Here’s your detailed run-down of each race distance
Chargel Ultramarathon
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/ultramarathon/
When: Saturday, July 26, 10:15 p.m.
Where: The Embarcadero at Market Street
Shuttle: None
Distance: 52.4 miles
Time limit: First lap by 5:30 a.m., second lap 6 hours
About the distance: Running two marathons in San Francisco is a challenge for the bold! Along the way, you’ll experience:
• San Francisco at night, illuminated landmarks.
• Breathtaking views of the The San Francisco Bay from The Golden Gate Bridge.
• Iconic parks, areas, and neighborhoods including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Marina Green, Crissy Field and Sausalito, the Presidio, Golden Gate Park, Haight St,
Individual Race Info Cont’d
Full Marathon
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/full-marathon/
When: Sunday, July 27, 5:15 a.m.
Where: The Embarcadero at Market Street
Shuttle: None
Distance: 26.2 miles
Time limit: 6 hours
About the distance:
Running the full marathon in San Francisco is a thrill! Along the way, you’ll take in:
• Breathtaking views from the Golden Gate Bridge of the San Francisco Bay.
• Featuring the Garmin Hill Challenge.
• Iconic parks, areas, and neighborhoods including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Marina Green, Crissy Field and Sausalito, Presidio, Golden Gate Park, Haight St, and the Mission District.
Up-close views of major league sports stadiums including homes
Individual
First Half Marathon: “The Bridge Half”
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/1st-half-marathon/
When: Sunday, July 27, 6:30 a.m.
Where: Embarcadero at Market Street
Shuttle: None
Distance: 13.1 miles
Time limit: 3 hours
About the distance:
The 1st Half, or “Bridge” Marathon, is packed with thrills—including a run across the Golden Gate Bridge! On this run, you get to experience:
• The unique pleasure of running on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
• Featuring the Garmin Hill Challenge.
• Refreshing Bay breezes with Eucalyptus in the air – a constant while running in San Francisco.
Sweeping views of the Bay, Sausalito, and Cavallo Point.
Individual Race Info Cont’d
Second Half Marathon: “The City Half”
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/2nd-half-marathon/
When: Sunday, July 27, 8:30 a.m.
Where: MLK Jr. Drive @Golden Gate Park
Shuttle: every 5-10 minutes from 6:50 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. on the Embarcadero at Howard St. and Spear St. Click HERE for more information
Distance: 13.1 miles
Time limit: 3.5 hours
About the distance:
The 2nd Half Marathon, “The City Half,” is a local favorite. With a start in Golden Gate Park near the ocean, it winds through the Golden Gate Park around Stow Lake and past the Conservatory of Flowers before finding your way to iconic city neighborhoods with a finish at the official San Francisco Marathon Finish Line—and with a later start time and faster route, runners have more time to take in the festivities! This unique and memorable route is packed with experiences, including:
• The Start Line is located at Golden Gate Park near Murphy Windmill.
• Refreshing Bay breezes with Eucalyptus in the air – a constant while running in San Francisco.
• Picturesque views of Stow Lake, the de Young Museum, and the Conservatory of Flowers.
The San Francisco Alexi Pappas 10K
Alexi Pappas SFM 10K
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/10k/
When: Sunday, July 27, 7:00 a.m.
Where: The Embarcadero at Market Street
Shuttle: None
Distance: 10k/6.2 miles (flat)
About the distance:
Running in San Francisco is a thrill! Along the way, you’ll take in:
• The iconic Bay Bridge.
• Running along the Bay.
• Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square.
• Views of beautiful historic sailing ships along Aquatic Park.
• A flat, fast course that’s perfect for racing or walking.
• Non-stop views and positive vibes!
5K’s and 1K Mad Dash
Saturday 5K Fun Run
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/saturday-5k/
When: Saturday, July 26, 7:00 a.m
Where: Crissy Field adjacent to Sports Basement Presidio Shuttle: None
Distance: 5k/3.1 miles (flat)
*Course and start time subject to change
Sunday 5K
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/sunday-5k/
When: Sunday, July 27, 9:00 am
Where: The Embarcadero at Market Street Shuttle: None
Distance: 5k/3.1 miles (flat)
*Course and start time subject to change
Seabastian’s 1K Mad Dash
https://www.thesfmarathon.com/sebastians-1k-mad-dash/
When: Saturday, July 27, 8:00 a.m.
Where: Crissy Field adjacent to Sports Basement Presidio Shuttle: None
Distance: 1k/.62 miles (flat)
Start and Finish Line Maps
First Half Finish w/ Shuttle Pickup
Please view our larger maps HERE
Finish Line Schute Map
Shuttle Loading / Flow Map
Second Half Start w/ Corrals and Shuttle Drop-Off
Please view our larger maps HERE
All Course Maps can be found HERE. For complete race weekend information please click HERE Full Individual Course Maps
Maps & Race Cont’d
Start Line, Main Finish Line & Festival
Please view our larger maps HERE
Individual Course Maps & Race Weekend Information
For race weekend information please view HERE
Please view our complete schedule of events HERE for any
Our (Hi)Story
The San Francisco Marathon will take you around the perimeter of the city and its iconic landmarks and historic neighborhoods. We can’t wait for you to embark on this journey through Golden Gate Park, over the Golden Gate Bridge, and past many more awe-inspiring places.
The Inaugural San Francisco Marathon
What has become a monumental and extraordinary race is rooted in the ambitions of a passionate and authentic local running community. It was the Pamakids Runners Club that put on the inaugural San Francisco Marathon on July 10, 1977. A taxi driver from Reno won that year, running the course in 2:24:59. Nobody knew back then that the race would become one of the largest marathons in the United States.
The Best Way to Get to Know the City
One of the best things about running through a city is the possibility to explore places normally viewed by car. The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most memorable locations for San Francisco Runners. Some dread the hill coming up to it; some are excited to get up there. One thing is certain: nobody is indifferent when it comes to this portion of the race.
Our (Hi)Story Cont’d
I know what it feels like to cross the Golden Gate Bridge. Twice. On foot. I know what it feels like to finish a race without wanting to die as soon as I cross the finish line. Finally, I know what it feels like to have a favorite marathon.” wrote Ethan Newberry, The Ginger Runner, in his race report
Even though the bridge might be the single most talked-about landmark, there are many other breathtaking views along the way, like Golden Gate Park. Besides many famous places like the Conservatory of Flowers, runners can encounter wildlife not everyone would expect to see in the middle of a city. For example—and this is not an April Fool’s joke—bison. The park, in short, is yet another unforgettable part of the course.
“
Where else can you see bison and botanical gardens in the same location? Certainly not in Connecticut!”
-Jeanne Corey Marchand, a 2019 San Francisco Marathon Ambassador.
Starting just before sunrise, the race fits a full week’s worth of sightseeing into one morning. The sky usually gets lighter as the race participants pass Fisherman’s Wharf and the sun comes out as they near the Golden Gate Bridge. “
There is nothing like seeing the beautiful sunrise over the water as you’re
Our (Hi)Story Cont’d
The Secret Sauce: Community
From 5K to 50 miles (okay, 52.4 miles, but who’s counting…), the San Francisco Marathon is an experience of a lifetime. As the runners leave the coast, the bridge, and the park and enter the city streets, they may think that all the “good” segments are behind them. The gorgeous views and exciting landmarks are only a part of the race’s charm—it’s the people and the community that make it truly special.
San Francisco Marathon participants are supported not only by the race organizers, volunteers, and medical crews but also by the local community and both running and non-running spectators. Every year, hundreds of volunteers and thousands of spectators come out to cheer on and help the race participants in any way they can.
Along the course, and as the finish line nears, runners are welcomed by cheering crowds, witty signs, and the Bay Bridge, announcing that they have only a few minutes left until they reach the finish line.
“
Take in the scenes, read all the signs, high-five every kid, and smile for the cameras!.” wrote Marchand.
Everybody takes part in getting the runners to the finish line, no matter how big or small their contribution. The race, despite its size, is still a community event, just as it was when it was first organized 47 years ago.
“
I fell in love with this race the moment I ran [it] but not just for the views and challenging course, but because of the community,” wrote Walter.
Any finish line is a place made of dreams. The San Francisco finish line is a place where those dreams have been made true for decades, and the community and organizers wish for nothing more than to keep helping others reach their goals, no matter how big, for years to come.
(A version of this article, written by Pavlína Marek of the San Francisco Marathon, first appeared in Outside Magazine in May 2022.)
Meet Your Fellow Runners
Xavier Hendrix
Distance: Ultramarathon
I’m Xavier Hendrix and I will be running the San Francisco ultra this year. I found running, or better yet, running found me in 2020. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been overweight and suffered from low self-esteem. In 2020, amid the pandemic, I was at my lowest, about 280 pounds, and suffocating in a thick shroud of depression. During a sleepless night, I grabbed a pair of shoes and “ran” under the night sky. I didn’t make it far. I made it about halfway up the street before I was heaved over. I did not quit. Every morning or night I was outside to slap the pavement. I hate to admit it, but I ran so early or so late that I would be unseen. With lots of struggles and challenges, I dropped 120 pounds. With reflection, I realized the weight I shed was not purely physical. It was a mental and emotional weight being shed as well. Since then, I’ve run multiple marathons and an ultra, completed the speed project with my family Miles Over Barriers, and finished my first world major in London. I have been embraced and received so much love and support from the running community during this journey of ups and downs. Being a part of this community is a privilege and a dream. It’s ridiculous to think, all of this has happened because of a decision and the simple act of running. Hope to see you there.
Love -X
Meet Your Fellow Runners
Armando Torres
Distance: City Half
I am a late bloomer when it comes to running. My primary athletic background is as a baseball/softball player. I was active in 4-5 leagues a week. As my playing days came to an end, I needed to find a new physical activity. Thus running found me via Concrete Runners and New Balance SF Run Club. I found so much joy in the supportive community and the challenge to build endurance and get faster. Ten years later, I helped co-found the Nth Degree AC in 2019. Until today, I’m somehow still finding new challenges.
Distance: Bridge Half
I started running in high school with the cross country team. I was around 15. That summer, during the school break, I remember running in the cornfields listening to Paramore on my iPod. Though the cross county team introduced me to running, I only ran track. During my sophomore and junior year. I ran the 1600 and the 3200. I was always the slowest, but I was embraced by the team. Then I stopped running until 2019. I was 25 when I met someone that was training for a half marathon. I joined them for a random run/ walk—and running has kept me moving ever since.
Dalia Ramirez-Robles
Meet Your Fellow Runners
Mario Granadeno
Distance: City Half
I’m originally from El Salvador and currently living in Los Angeles, CA. I’ll be running the second half as an elite.
I started running ten years ago when someone invited me to run a marathon. At the time, I didn’t even know what a marathon was or how long the distance was. I finished that first race in 5 hours and 36 minutes—but when I crossed the finish line, I fell in love with the sport. Since then, I’ve kept running, determined to see how fast I can go in the marathon distance. My current personal best is 2 hours and 41 minutes. My biggest dream is to break or get as close as possible to my country’s national marathon record.
Abby & Andy
Distance: Alexi Pappas 10K
Hi, I’m Abby, a four-year-old mini Australian shepherd. I’ve been joining my human, Andy, on his runs for the past three years. Apparently, he ran for two more years before I came into the picture, but I don’t understand how it could have been any fun without me! As a working breed, I always have lots of energy and my human needed a way to utilize it so he decided to try and take me running with him. Turns out, I really love it! My greatest accomplishment to date has been running the 2025 Oakland half marathon.
Welcome to San Francisco!
Here’s Your Mini Travel Guide
We love our beautiful city. Whether you’re coming from near or far, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with it, too. Here are a few tips for your visit.
Ready, Set, Refuel! Where to Eat After the San Francisco Marathon?
You’ve run your race, now it’s time to refuel. Where to eat after the San Francisco Marathon? Whether you like a good burger, prefer some fresh oysters, or crave the best Japanese vegan food inspired by Zen Buddhist recipes, you’re in the right place. Dive into the food scene of the City by the Bay. Dig in and enjoy!
The Perfect Post-Race Meal
There are as many perfect post-race meals —and you can (most likely) find them all in San Francisco.
The Ferry Building
If you’re a beer-and-burger kind of marathoner, what about heading to the Ferry Building It’s right by the finish line and houses the taproom and Gott’s Roadside which serves burgers and other American classics. From there, you can go on a full-blown beer tour and see all the best breweries San Francisco has to offer.
Chowders
Fancy a bowl of clam chowder as your first non-sugary food after getting your medal? Say no more. Clam chowder is one of San Francisco’s signature dishes, the perfect hearty meal to lift up the spirits when Karl the Fog pays a visit. Try Chowders on Pier 39 (a walkable distance from the finish line) or choose from the best clam chowder spots on this comprehensive list
Photo courtesy chowderspier39.com
SF Mini Travel Guide
Cha-Ya San Francisco
Are plants more your speed? Are you looking for a calm experience after the rush of a race day morning? Cha-Ya San Francisco can offer just that. With its plant-based cuisine inspired by the principles of Zen Buddhism, this family-owned and operated restaurant is the perfect spot to share a meal with your (newly-made) friends or reflect on your race in peace.
Looking for something else? Find the best seafood spots, eat at Michelin Restaurants, visit the top five farmers markets, or eat your way through each of San Francisco’s neighborhoods. The possibilities are endless!
Next-Day Brunch
Did you sleep in the day after your race? Good for you! Look at you, kick-starting the recovery process like a champ. After you find your way out of bed, it’s time to get in more good food—and the best way to do that is with a big brunch.
Sweet Maple
There are countless places in San Francisco where you can find just what you’re looking for. Is it time for some classic American bacon-and-eggs combo? Sweet Maple with their famous sweet and spicy Millionaire’s Bacon is just the place to go.
Yank Sing Restaurant
Is dim-sum the new bacon? Three generations have been serving guests dim-sum for brunch for nearly 70 years at the family-owned Yank Sing restaurant. Choose from more than 100 rotating dishes served from traditional pushcarts and enjoy a brunch like no other.
Photo courtesy sweetmaplesf.com & yanksing.com
SF Mini Travel Guide
Son & Garden by Farmhouse Kitchen
If you’re looking for an Alice-in-Wonderland kind of experience with your brunch, Son & Garden is the place to go. Smell roses and become bedazzled by the bright décor as you enjoy unique dishes and drinks like Bear Belly Benedict, Bobamosa, or Sakura Latte.
Now you know where to eat after the San Francisco Marathon! Looking for something else? See the full SF Travel list of best brunch spots
Photo courtesy sftravel.com & sonandgarden.com
SF Mini Travel Guide
SFM Guide to green
“Oh, the Places You Will Go! Green Spaces in San Francisco to Satisfy Your Need for Nature...”
In comparison to other cities, San Francisco is quite small. Surrounded on three sides by water, the City by the Bay has nowhere to grow, which allows for plenty of green spaces to remain more or less untouched. There are the Marin Headlands right across the Golden Gate Bridge, and many state and regional parks dot the peninsula just south of the city. Even with all this natural space nearby, San Francisco is dappled with green spaces within, all of which can be reached without a car.
Beaches
The waves of the Pacific Ocean wash right up against the western end of the city. Thanks to that, San Francisco has several beaches. Whether it’s a sunny day that’ll make you want to dip your toes in the ocean or a moody one filled with fog, there is always a beach you can go to. Want to cool off your feet after the race while you watch the sunset? Head to China Beach. Is it foggy, the perfect weather for a moody shot of the Golden Gate Bridge? Baker Beach is the place to go.
Choose your beach
Golden Gate Park
One of the largest urban parks, the Golden Gate Park offers many attractions as well as hidden gems. Within its green borders, there are several gardens like the Rose Garden or the Japanese Tea Garden with traditional Japanese landscaping features, snacks, and teas. The park is also home to many critters as well as a herd of American bison. It houses the California Academy of Sciences and offers miles of trails and paths to walk, run, and stroll along.
Explore GG Park
SF Mini Travel Guide
Presidio Tunnel Tops
The Presidio Parkway runs under the newly-open Presidio Tunnel Tops Park
Thanks to the park, people can now easily and safely get from Presidio to Crissy Fields as they walk among native plants and temporary art exhibitions. There’s a play area for kids and adults alike built completely from natural materials and many picnic spaces to kick back and relax. (Also, did you know that there’s a Yoda fountain nearby?)
Explore the Presidio Tunnel Tops
Salesforce Park
The best roof isn’t made of roof tiles but plants. The Salesforce Transit Center proved this when it opened a 5.4-acre rooftop park. Some 600 trees and 16,000 plants now grow four stories off the ground in the Salesforce Park. It has many perks: greenery is proven to regulate the temperature in cities on hot days. On top of that, it also has a positive impact on people’s mental health. Explore a bamboo grove, a fountain, or 13 botanical gardens, representing ecosystems from around the world.
Explore Salesforce Park
Whale Watching
While the best whale-watching spots aren’t directly in San Francisco, you technically don’t have to leave the city to hop on a whale-watching boat tour. Whales get close to the shore near San Francisco because they migrate along a “highway” that runs right through the Gulf of the Farallones, between Point Reyes and the Farallon Islands. Of course, these tours can get costly and are unsuitable for people who get seasick. In that case, the Point Reyes and Point Bonita lighthouses are your best bet.
SF Mini Travel Guide
Do you have exactly three days to explore San Francisco? Follow or get inspired by SF Travel’s Three-Day Outdoor Adventure guide! Travel around the green spaces in San Francisco and enjoy your time in the City by the Bay.
Top 5 Natural Attractions Near San Francisco
The San Francisco Marathon is called a destination race for a good reason. Besides the city itself, there are many natural attractions near San Francisco that runners can visit in the days leading up to and following the race itself. Explore the parks, beaches, and towns locals love!
Mount Tamalpais
Mount Tamalpais rises from the waters of the Pacific Ocean, its unmistakable East Peak an inseparable part of the surrounding landscape. It dominates Marin County and offers uncontended views. From its top, you can see as far as the Sierra Mountains and admire Mount Diablo as it rises above the East Bay landscape.
You can drive up “Mount Tam” or take one of its many trails that range from mellow to extremely technical. A gorgeous hike with a combination of fun trails and comfy fire roads will take you from Stinson Beach to the top of the mountain. Go via Dipsea and Steep Ravine trails to Reach Pantoll Campground, then get on the Old Stage and Old Railroad Grade roads to complete the hike to the top. Don’t forget you have to get back down again; we don’t recommend taking on this adventure
Photo courtesy sftravel.com
SF Mini Travel Guide
Muir Woods
Under the watchful eye of Mount Tamalpais, wrapped in its arms, lies Muir Woods National Monument. Ancient redwood trees fill this little valley carved by Redwood Creek. It’s one of the many great natural wonders Marin County has to offer. There are three ways you can get to Muir Woods. Because visitation has increased in recent years, you’ll need a reservation to drive to and park in the valley. If you want to avoid driving and parking stress, shuttles are a great (and greener) option. The third (and cheapest) way to get to Muir Woods is by foot. You can hike in from Mill Valley via the famous Dipsea Trail and its stairs if your legs are ready for another challenge post-race!
Point Reyes
On the weekend, many San Franciscans head north to Point Reyes National Seashore. Don’t let the maps fool you; this park covers an area of more than 100 square miles! Most of the park slowly slides north along the coast; did you know that some 20 million years ago, Point Reyes sat right next to where Los Angeles is today?
The park is home to the California-endemic tule elk as well as typical Californian fauna and flora like mountain lions or the California poppies. You can also walk right along the San Andreas fault that separates it from the continent and see how far the land jumped during the infamous 1906 earthquake.
On the other side of the Point Reyes peninsula is a favorite local getaway place: Tomales Bay. It may be a beautiful area but the main attraction here are oysters. Incomparably fresh, the shellfish are cultivated and harvested right in the bay. You can either order oyster dishes or go out to shuck your own.
SF Mini Travel Guide
Angel Island
Moving slightly south, there’s Angel Island. It used to be the immigration port of the West, like Ellis Island in New York. Nowadays, the island welcomes visitors with its trails, history tours, and a coffee shop right by the water. Compared to other destinations like Alcatraz or Muir Woods, Angel Island is virtually without crowds.
The whole island is a state park with campgrounds and even its own mountain. The top of Mount Livermore overlooks the bay from 788 feet above sea level. If you’re not in the mood for sleeping in a tent, Angel Island also makes for a perfect day trip— start by taking a ferry from San Francisco (not too) early in the morning and plan your perfect day with our handy Angel Island Guide.
Highway 1: Towns, Beaches, and State Parks
If you fancy a mini road trip, the famous Highway 1 that hugs nearly the entire California Coast is a great choice. If you drive south from San Francisco, you’ll soon reach Half Moon Bay. There are many hiking trails, a distillery, and beaches for days—just stop at one and relax!
If you keep driving, you’ll pass by more beaches (which you’ll have mostly to yourself)
