Lands End Trail
A free cliffside coastal trail with bridge views, ruins, and a labyrinth.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
Cypress-lined paths, crashing surf, the bridge framed through the trees, and the Sutro Baths ruins below.
Our read - 02
Plenty of SF locals quietly think it's the best thing in the city, and it's free.
Our read - 03
The Coastal Trail is a cliff-top walk through dark cypress and open grass with 30-mile views up and down the California coast — postcard-perfect framing of the Golden Gate and Marin Headlands.
parksconservancy.org - 04
You can clamber down through the concrete foundations of Adolph Sutro's vast 1894 saltwater bathhouse — you'll even spot an original ladder from the structure.
parksconservancy.org
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Lands End Trail still earns its price.
You only have one day
Even on a tight schedule, Lands End Trail earns the hours.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Lands End Trail works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Lands End Trail works.
Think twice if
You are traveling with kids
With kids, it depends on the day.
You want something active
For adventure, Lands End Trail is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Late afternoon into sunset on a clear day; go early or midday if fog is forecast.
- Booking
- No ticket required; the trail and parking are free.
- Allow
- 2-3 hrs
- Accessibility
- The main Coastal Trail is wide but has stairs and uneven sections; the Lookout visitor center, café, and restrooms are accessible, but the ruins and labyrinth are not.
- Getting there
- Start at the Lands End Lookout parking lot off Point Lobos Avenue, near the Sutro Baths and Cliff House.
Sources and method (4)
- The free Lands End coastal trail in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area passes the 1896 Sutro Baths ruins and offers framed views of the Golden Gate Bridge nps.gov ↗
- parksconservancy.org ↗
- svadore.com ↗
- californiacrossings.com ↗