San Francisco | Hiking Edition

Hike distance: 5.1 miles Elevation gain: 872 ft. The Tennessee Valley Trail is an easy and popular hike thanks to the fact that it’s a pretty flat walk with minimal hills and maximum views. The trail winds through coastal hills and though it starts out paved, turns into a dirt path after about half a mile. Ultimately, you’ll end up at a tiny beach that’s sandwiched between bluffs on either side. If you want to make the hike a little more challenging, you can take the Fox Trail to the Coast Trail for a 5 mile loop.  A definite highlight of this hike has to be the beaches - there's a small beach called Pirate's Cove, which is nestled at about the 2.5 mile mark if you're taking the loop. The other, more frequented beach, is Tennessee Beach mentioned above.

Hike Distance: 6.3 miles Elevation gain: 1246 ft. If you're a sucker for views (which, you are) this hike up Mt. Tam is sure to please. Being that you are in Mill Valley, you most likely have escaped the fog from the city, and will have no problem viewing the San Francisco skyline in the distance. There are two ways to get to the top - the first is truly a hike and the second, is more of a park and walk situation. Either way you have to walk the plank. You heard me right. The Plank Walk Trail is about a quarter of a mile and takes you all the way to the summit.    Insider tip: come here for sunset. Trust me. If you come during the day however, make sure to bring plenty of water. There isn't a lot of shade on the way up, so make sure to stay hydrated! All in all this hike is sure to give you that bird's eye view and quench that thirst to yell "I'm the king (or queen) of the mountain!

Hike distance: 9.7 miles Elevation gain: 2545 ft. The Dipsea Trail has to be one of the most all encompassing Bay Area hikes . The complexity of the terrain is fascinating, not to mention the sheer amount of sites you will see along the way is remarkable. If you take the full trail, it extends from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach. The beginning of the hike winds through open chaparral with stunning views of the glittering Pacific Ocean. As the trail descends, it begins to enter some exceptionally attractive woodland. The lush landscape is home to a variety of micro-climates, fostered by a nearby rushing brook. The Steep Ravine Trail includes a 14-rung wooden ladder, which feels like a playground built into the natural elements. Be cautious though in early mornings, as it may be a tad slippery. Fun fact about this trail - it is host to the oldest trail race in America. Starting in 1905, the race is run every year on the second Sunday in June.

Hike distance: 3.4 miles Elevation gain: 534 ft. This is my absolute favorite route for trail running. You are along the cliff line for the majority of the trail, hence the name - land's end - it truly feels like you are on the edge of the earth. It's a surreal experience along every twist and turn. As you wind along you encounter views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, and China Beach. This coastal trail has some slight elevation, making it ideal for a scenic jog. The trail ultimately leads to Sutro Baths. These baths were created in 1894 by Adolph Sutro, who constructed an ocean pool aquarium among the rocks. The massive glass enclosure contained seven swimming pools of varying temperatures. These baths were ambitious and magnificent, and even their remains show the true beauty of what once was.

Hike distance: 8.8 miles Elevation gain: 1335 ft. Can't say TLC didn't warn us about chasing waterfalls, but this is one is a must see. And now that those lyrics are stuck in your head, you might as well get to chasing because this is sure a hike. It's certainly a doozy getting out here since the trail to the falls isn't greatly marked. Usually there is only a small rock formation in the form of an arrow pointing you in the direction of the falls, but you will have to make your way through some low-hanging canopy before you realize you're on the right path. Either way, this 40ft tidefall cascading down a cliffy directly onto the beach is 100% worth the effort of getting there. And pack a swimsuit: if you're not into swimming in the salty sea, you’ll definitely want to stop at Bass Lake for some fresh water dipping on your way back!