Oh my gosh…My first official post! Can you tell I’m excited?!?
So I’ve been living in San Francisco for just a little over a month now, and even though I’ve been warned by many people that the summer here can be chilly, I was still surprised to find most days overcast and cold. So when the fog manages to dissipate early morning and the sun is out and the weather is warm, I feel like I have to make the most of it and spend as much time outdoors as possible. One of my favorite trails to go on when the day is beautiful is the Lands End Trail. It’s a great scenic trail that’s conveniently located right in San Francisco. I love it because it’s not too strenuous, there’s parking (a rarity in the city!), and on a clear day, offers amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Also, it’s one of the few places the hubs and I let Hansel off leash for the entire walk, which makes him immensely happy!
The trail starts off at the Sutro Baths ruins, which at one time was a privately owned swimming complex comprised of 7 pools built into the side of the cliff that overlooked the Pacific Ocean. Unfortunately a fire destroyed the baths and all that’s left are some concrete walls. It’s still a cool site though and I like to imagine what it must have been like back in the day in all it’s glory.
Image via Wikipedia
The trail follows the curve of the cliffs and offers beautiful views of the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as beautiful wildflowers all along the trail. Aside from a small stretch of steps that always gets my heart racing, the trail is mostly flat and enjoyable.
After about 1.5 miles, you’ll end up in the Sea Cliff neighborhood with signs pointing to various beaches and the Legion of Honor museum. If you’re not too tired and especially if it’s a warm day, I highly recommend going to Baker Beach, which is only about another half a mile and passes through some of the most beautiful houses in San Francisco.
Sigh, I could easily spend a few hours there either reading or doggy watching. Including the beach time, you could easily spend half a day here! Although I’ve never been there myself, I’d love to try the Sunday Champagne Brunch at the Cliff House one day. It’s located at the beginning of the trail and would be the perfect prelude to the hike, or treat if you’re an early riser 😉 Champagne, poached salmon, desserts, hiking, beach…Doesn’t it just sound like the perfect weekend?
What: Lands End Trail
Where: Point Lobos Avenue at 48th Avenue, San Francisco
Activity: Hiking (~3 – 4 miles round-trip; Easy to Moderate)
A Sprinkle of Adventure 
