The San Francisco Peninsula is split vertically by the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Andreas fault, creating unique geographic features that provide numerous opportunities for free, healthy activities. Whether you're looking for a strenuous workout, a thrill ride, seaside fun or a relaxing stroll, the San Francisco Peninsula offers something for just about everyone.
Bird's Eye View of the Bay
A moderately strenuous climb to Sweeney Ridge, just south of San Francisco between San Bruno and Pacifica, yields spectacular 360-degree views of the coast and the bay area. It was from this ridge that Spanish explorers first saw San Francisco Bay, its entrance having been hidden from ships by fog. Parking is shared with Shelldance Orchid Gardens in Pacifica. Stop by the greenhouse and check out its collections of orchids, bromeliads and rare tropical plants.
Climb in the Clouds
Home of the highest point in San Mateo County, the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve has eight miles of trails traversing its 1,978 acres. Abundant wildlife can been observed year-round by the patient and watchful hiker, and wildflowers explode with color every spring. Borel Hill offers a 360-degree view from its peak at 2,513 feet. For a special evening, sign up for a full-moon-rising hike to the top of the hill. Preserve trails are open to cyclists, hikers and equestrians.
Go for an Easy Run
Crystal Springs is a pristine, man-made reservoir near Interstate 280 and Highway 92 in San Mateo County. Sawyer Camp Trail parallels the reservoir for six flat, paved miles, and it connects to trails running north and south. Once a thoroughfare between San Francisco and Half Moon Bay, the trail is now used by hikers, joggers, cyclists and equestrians. Roadside parking is available at Crystal Springs Road and Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35).
Bike Rides for Everyone
Take advantage of the Sunday road closure on Canada Road, which extends from Highway 92 to Edgewood Road, along the eastern side of Crystal Springs Reservoir. The closed section provides a flat, scenic, four-mile ride that's safe for cyclists of all ages. You can continue south about three miles to Woodside Road on a generous bike lane. Experienced riders can take on the challenging three-mile climb up Woodside Road to Skyline Boulevard, then continue through the redwoods or make the thrilling three-mile downhill return trip.
Tide Pools on the Coast
While the coast is known for its beaches, the shore offers more than just fun in the sun. The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach has an abundance of tide pools in which to observe sea life, including starfish, crabs, urchins and the occasional octopus. Farther down the coast, Pillar Point in Half Moon Bay provides another rocky tableau for tide pooling. Both locations have access to bluff-top hiking trails. You'll have a more satisfying experience at low tide, so check a tide chart before you go.
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